Brazilian flyweight Poliana Botelho, a former UFC fighter who recently signed with Bellator MMA, has announced that she is fighting cancer.
Botelho announced the news on social media on Friday. The 34-year old posted photo and video footage of herself in hospital, stating that she was battling the disease and promising victory.
“One more battle for my life… But this victory will be mine,” wrote Botelho (translation via Google Translate).
The unfortunate news will no doubt evoke memories of the late Anthony “Rumble” Johnson, a former UFC title challenger and Bellator MMA standout who tragically passed away due to complications from cancer last year.
Botelho did not specify the type of cancer. The flyweight last competed under the Invicta FC banner in September, notching a win over The Ultimate Fighter 30 alum Helen Peralta.
Poliana Botelho joined the UFC in 2017 after posting a 5-1 record on the regional circuit. Making her debut at UFC 216, she picked up wins in her first two bouts, competing as a strawweight. Following a loss to Cynthia Calvillo in 2018, Botelho returned to flyweight, with the promotion having recently introduced the 125lb weight class for women.
She posted a 1-3 record in her final four bouts, then returned in her lone Invicta FC fight. Botelho inked a deal with Bellator MMA late last year, but has not had a debut date set. She has a more important fight on her hands at the moment, however. One all fans can get behind her in.
