Iasmin Lucindo, who has the potential to become the youngest UFC champion by breaking Jon Jones‘ record, is focused on enjoying her journey and gaining experience rather than rushing toward a title, while also supporting her training partner Virna Jandiroba‘s championship aspirations.
Iasmin Lucindo could break Jon Jones’ record as the youngest UFC champion ever. Funny thing is, she’s not even focused on that goal.
Lucindo’s on a roll with three consecutive wins in the UFC. Her latest victory was against veteran Karolina Kowalkiewicz last May. Now, she’s gearing up to face top-ranked Marina Rodriguez at UFC 307 this Saturday night. To break Jones’ record, she’d need to win the strawweight belt by Sept. 5, 2025. No pressure, right?
“The title shot might happen in 2025,” Lucindo shared with MMA Fighting. “But I’ve been rushed before, and now I’m just savoring each moment.” She wants to take it slow, show her evolution, and gain experience before claiming the belt. If it happens next year or in three years? Either way, she’s cool with it.
Turning 23 in January, Lucindo began fighting professionally at 14 to protect her family from domestic violence. While breaking Jones’ record sounds “awesome,” she’s learned from others who’ve rushed and stumbled.
“Everyone’s in such a rush these days,” Lucindo observed. “The more you hurry, the longer it takes.” She respects the process and believes if it’s meant to be, it’ll happen. If not? Well, there are other records out there [laughs].
She’s also cheering for her training partner Virna Jandiroba to become the next champion. Jandiroba faces Tatiana Suarez at UFC 310 on Dec. 7. Lucindo jokes that she’ll get her chance once Virna retires. “I hope Virna becomes champion because she deserves it,” Lucindo said.
Facing Rodriguez is a “great opportunity” for Lucindo to prove herself against a top striker. She admits she didn’t expect this chance given her current ranking.
“I’m a striker; I love battles,” Lucindo declared. Expect a thrilling 15-minute war with Rodriguez. She believes it’s going to be a technical fight and thinks she can knock Rodriguez out—but knows they must be cautious with every opportunity.