HeadlinesBriefing favicon HeadlinesBriefing.com

Cyborg Eyes Career Win 30 in PFL Clash with Vieira

ESPN General •
×

Cristiane 'Cyborg' Justino enters Saturday's PFL featherweight bout in Tampa against Ketlen Vieira with a chance to make history. The 41-year-old, 29-2 (1 NC) veteran has won nine straight since her 2018 loss to Amanda Nunes and already holds titles across Strikeforce, Invicta FC, UFC, Bellator, and PFL. A 2011 failed drug test and weight-cut issues once derailed big-money matchups, but Cyborg insists she can walk away anytime. Vieira, 16-5, respects her rival yet says 'Saturday is my day.' PFL CEO John Martin calls it the 'conclusion to the storied career of Cyborg,' but she's focused on becoming the first woman with 30 wins. Off-camera, Cyborg tends animals on her California ranch and Brazilian property, runs an Instagram zoo, and dreams of veterinary work while preparing to become a grandmother.

Cyborg's 21 knockouts in 29 wins showcase the 'superhuman firepower' that defined her 13-year unbeaten run after her 2005 pro debut loss. Her dominance spans three decades, inspiring both admiration and avoidance from peers like Ronda Rousey and Germaine de Randamie.

Vieira's UFC résumé includes wins over Holly Holm and Miesha Tate, plus a close decision with Kayla Harrison, making her the toughest challenge Cyborg has faced recently.

Beyond fighting, Cyborg plans youth martial arts instruction in Southern California and Brazil, and considers veterinary school after retiring from competition.