UFC Vegas 43: Ketlen Vieira “Right Where I Want to Be” Following Tate Win

Las Vegas, NV — Women’s bantamweight Ketlen Vieira walked away from UFC Vegas 43 with the biggest win of her career on Saturday.

Vieira (12-2) went the distance with former champ Miesha Tate, picking up a unanimous decision victory in the end. The Brazilian seemed hesitant at times, giving the ex-champ perhaps more respect than she normally would have — but Vieira came away happy with her performance.

“I really felt good going into this fight. My feelings and my emotions were towards the last fight, which I thought I won, and I didn’t. So I came in here with a lot of pent up emotions, pent up aggression,” Vieira told reporters following the bout. “I respect Miesha a lot, but I fought a great fight I believe. I fought a great fight, I’m happy with my performance. Miesha was already a champion before I even could get my hands on MMA. She was a champion, so I look up to her. Fighting a legend like that makes me really believe in my skills, makes me mentally more tough, and ready for the future.”

Despite the big win, Vieira says she’ll trust in her coaches as to when it will be time to return. But, she added, “I’ll answer the call when the call is made.” She’s also aware of the title picture, and Amanda Nunes’ date with Julianna Pena next month.

“This victory puts me right where I want to be. Back at the top. Top five,” observed Vieira. “There will be a championship fight coming up soon, so I’m right back to where I want to be again. I’m back active, I’m ready to go and I look forward to working my way back toward the belt.”

Watch the full UFC Vegas 43 post-fight press scrum with Ketlen Vieira above. More coverage from the event can be found below.