Virna Jandiroba

Virna Jandiroba, known by the nickname "Carcará" (a nod to a bird of prey native to her home region), is a Brazilian mixed martial artist who competes in the women's strawweight division of the UFC.

Born and raised in Serrinha, Bahia, Jandiroba began training in martial arts as a child, starting with kung fu before moving into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, an art she credits with helping her channel her energy and discipline. She built her fighting foundation out of Fight House in Bahia under the Team Velame banner, working closely with coach Renato Velame as she developed from a decorated grappler into a complete mixed martial artist.

A black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Jandiroba established her credentials on the mats well before stepping into the cage, capturing titles as a BJJ World Champion, Pan-American Champion, and Mercosul/South American Champion. That grappling pedigree translated directly into her fighting career, where she also won the Invicta FC strawweight championship prior to signing with the UFC.

Jandiroba fights first and foremost as a submission specialist, employing an old-school, guard-oriented jiu-jitsu approach she has adapted for mixed martial arts. She is relentless in scrambles, equally comfortable attacking from top position or off her back, and consistently dangerous with chokes and armbars whenever a fight reaches the canvas.

Since joining the UFC, Jandiroba has recorded notable wins over a string of established strawweights, including Felice Herrig, Marina Rodriguez, Amanda Lemos, and Yan Xiaonan

Stats last updated: September 19, 2026