Ailín Pérez Aims to Extend UFC Bantamweight Streak at UFC 311

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Ailín Pérez, the No. 13 ranked UFC bantamweight, is set to extend her division-leading four-fight win streak when she faces Karol Rosa at UFC 311: Makhachev vs Tsarukyan 2 on Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025, at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California.

Pérez, known for her signature victory dance and flamboyant style, has become a fan favorite while climbing the ranks. Her current streak ties her with Norma Dumont for the longest in the division, and a win over Rosa would solidify her position as a top contender. “All my work is reflected in my results,” Pérez told Sherdog.com. “I deserve to keep winning.”

Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pérez began training in Sanda and Kung Fu at age 12, eventually earning multiple titles, including South American MMA Bantamweight Champion twice. Her journey to the UFC has been marked by resilience, particularly after avenging her only UFC loss with a first-round armbar submission against Daria Zhelezniakova in Paris this past September.

Her opponent, Karol Rosa, presents a formidable challenge. Ranked No. 9, Rosa boasts a 7-3 UFC record and has defeated established fighters like Yana Santos and Pannie Kianzad. “I think Karol is a tough fighter, a warrior,” Pérez said. “But I don’t feel she has the necessary tools to beat me. I’m going to submit her.”

Pérez trains at The Goat Shed Academy in Miami under coaches Mango Rodriguez and Selman Berisha. Her camp has focused on mental preparation, aiming to evolve with each session. “That’s what we need to win,” she emphasized.

Beyond her fighting skills, Pérez’s charisma and sportsmanship have endeared her to fans. After a contentious buildup to her fight with Joselyne Edwards, Pérez initiated reconciliation in the Octagon, earning praise from commentator Daniel Cormier. “Sportsmanship,” Cormier observed. “They’ve got to squash the whole beef.”

With her eyes set on a top-ten ranking and eventual title shot, Pérez remains undeterred by the challenges ahead. “The goal is not Karol; it’s the belt,” she declared.