Ketlen Souza Targets UFC Top 15 After Two Consecutive Wins

Brazilian MMA fighter Ketlen Souza is gradually finding her best form in the UFC after a difficult start to her career with the promotion. The former Invicta FC flyweight champion made her UFC debut in 2023 with a defeat, but moving down to strawweight has helped her deliver more consistent performances.

On October 10, the 31-year-old will face Mexico’s Lupita Godinez at UFC Fight Night: Allen vs. Duncan at Meta APEX. A victory could bring Souza closer to breaking into the UFC rankings.

Souza has recorded two wins in 2026, rebuilding her confidence and giving her career fresh momentum. In February, she defeated Bruna Brasil by unanimous decision after three rounds, before knocking out Ariane Carnelossi with an impressive head kick in the first round in June.

The Brazilian is now preparing for her third fight in nine months and says her progress is following the plan she set for herself.

Before this winning run, Souza suffered two consecutive split-decision defeats against Angela Hill and Piera Rodriguez. However, changing gyms and focusing more closely on her strengths have helped turn things around.

Her immediate goal is to enter the UFC rankings before the end of 2026. She then aims to break into the Top 5 in 2027 before eventually challenging for the championship.