Tyra Santos experienced a losing streak of three games.
After competing in the UFC for four years and seven fights (4-3 in the UFC, 19-3 overall), Santos has decided to step away from the promotion and pursue the next chapter of her mixed martial arts career. Click here for more details.
Santos, a 30-year-old fighter from Brazil, made history by earning a contract through Dana White’s Contender Series and challenging for the UFC flyweight title. Her most significant career moment was challenging former champion Valentina Shevchenko for the title at UFC 275 in June 2022.
Unfortunately, Santos fell just short with a split decision loss to Shevchenko (watch highlights). The fight was highly competitive and many believed an immediate rematch should have been scheduled. However, one of the turning points in the bout was Santos breaking her orbital bone, which caused swelling as the match progressed. Instead of a rematch, Santos had to undergo surgery to repair her injury.
Santos faced further setbacks after the loss when she was accused of failing to compensate her former gym. She only fought once since the Shevchenko fight, facing fellow top contender Erin Blanchfield in August 2023 at UFC Singapore. Santos gave a tough fight, but she ultimately suffered the first loss of her career via unanimous decision, extending her losing streak.
Originally, Santos was set to headline UFC Vegas 69 in February 2023 against Blanchfield. However, due to visa complications for two members of Santos’ corner team (including her husband), she was unable to compete. Former UFC strawweight champion Jessica Andrade took her place and defeated Blanchfield by rear naked choke in the second round (watch highlights).
