For the first time in nearly three years, Tainara Lisboa is finally set to step back into the UFC cage this weekend.
Lisboa`s upcoming bout is against the younger Luana Santos, appearing on the preliminary portion of the event. This fight marks her return since she suffered a severe left knee injury in late 2023. Remarkably, she secured a victory over late-notice opponent Ravena Oliveira at the UFC APEX despite the injury, proceeding immediately afterwards to surgery for a knee cartilage reconstruction.
The Challenging Road to Recovery
Reflecting on the period, Lisboa described it as profoundly “difficult.” She emphasized that the most challenging aspect wasn`t the physical pain but the daunting prospect of being unable to pursue the career she had dedicated her life to. The severity of the injury brought her close to considering retirement, as the surgery was experimental with an uncertain prognosis. She articulated the emotional toll of navigating this uncertainty after finally reaching the UFC and delivering two strong performances, essentially living her dream, only to face the potential reality of never returning, or not being able to compete at her previous level. “Imagine going that whole process after finally arriving in the UFC and putting on two good performances. You’re living the dream, and all of a sudden you have no idea if you’re going to come back. And if I do go back, am I the same Tainara? Can I become the best Tainara I can be? That was very complicated,” she shared.
Lisboa, 34, underwent surgery on December 1, 2023, approximately six weeks after improving her UFC record to 2-0. The subsequent recovery process resulted in significant atrophy of her leg thigh muscle, measuring 2.3 inches. The veteran bantamweight`s weight temporarily increased to 168 pounds before she could resume training. It required a full year before she felt physically ready to inform the UFC that she was prepared to commence a training camp.
She recalled fundamental difficulties, stating, “I couldn’t walk up stairs, for example. I learned how to walk again.” There were moments she felt her fighting career was over, but she credited her supportive team with providing crucial encouragement during her lowest points. She began her “toughest camp” to date on December 2, 2023, facing it without certainty of the final outcome.
Staying Connected Through Commentary
While unable to train in the gym, an unexpected opportunity helped her maintain her connection to the sport: a call from the promotion to work as a color commentator. Lisboa was invited to commentate on LFA and UFC shows for the Brazilian version of UFC Fight Pass, a role that proved invaluable in navigating the difficult recovery period and helping her “feel part of the UFC.”
“To live that other side and learn, and still feel alive in fights, that was an incredible experience,” Lisboa commented. She plans to continue developing her skills in this area, believing she has a natural aptitude for it, having immersed herself in fighting since age 13. She also noted that commentating enhanced her understanding as a fighter, necessitating study of athletes and techniques outside her typical scope, leading to continuous learning.
Looking Ahead to the Fight
Lisboa heads into Saturday`s fight on a five-fight winning streak dating back to 2021. Across from her, Santos is moving back up to 135 pounds after experiencing her first defeat in the octagon at flyweight against Casey O’Neill.
Lisboa anticipates an “interesting fight,” acknowledging Luana`s youth and impressive statistics. She sees similarities in their records and their shared preference for finishing fights before the final bell, despite the considerable age gap between them.
Lisboa believes her nine-year age advantage offers an edge in experience, but her perspective goes deeper. “Few things scare you after you go through hell,” she stated. For her, simply being back is a monumental victory in itself. She views the upcoming bout as being less about her opponent and more about her personal journey, overcoming her injury, and proving her capabilities within the world`s largest fighting organization. She is determined to demonstrate her health and readiness. Recognizing her opponent`s dedication and dreams, Lisboa is certain she will face the best version of Luana Santos and has prepared accordingly.
