Laura Vasconcelos
5-0, 25 years old, Strawweight, Brazil
A name that may be less familiar to the average MMA fan, Laura Vasconcelos competed only once in 2025, but she left a strong impression with a spectacular head-kick knockout, successfully defending the Shooto Brazil title she had won in 2024. Another Brazilian who, with a bit more activity, likely would have already received the call from the UFC.
Nowadays, it’s pretty rare to see the great Brazilian prospects shine outside the LFA Brasil organisation, but I firmly believe Laura Vasconcelos deserves her opportunity on the big stage anyways. She owns four KO or TKO wins in five professional victories, brings a fan-friendly style, and has valuable experience as a champion in a respected organization.
Julieta Martinez
9-0, 21 years old, Strawweight, Argentina
Another young fighter on this list, you probably already know Julieta from her appearance on DWCS in 2024. At the time, Martinez earned a split-decision win over an LFA veteran. However, Dana White mentioned afterward that Martinez still needed to gain experience before getting her shot in the UFC. That is why I believe 2026 will be the year she receives the call. Julieta only stepped into the cage once in 2025, earning a unanimous decision that left us somewhat wanting more. Nevertheless, I believe “The Ninja Ferret” would be a very fitting representative of the new generation of fighters in the UFC.
The Argentinian is a regular at the Mexico City Performance Institute, where she serves as the main training partner for newly signed roster member Juan Diaz. In addition, Martinez has built a strong following on social media, a factor we have seen influence UFC decisions in the past. I think it is time to give Martinez another opportunity.
Farida Abdueva further UFC strawweight champion ☝🏻