Imagine being a former UFC title contender, only to find yourself on a devastating losing streak that just won’t end. That’s the harsh reality for Mayra Bueno Silva, who suffered her fourth consecutive loss at UFC Vegas 111. But here’s where it gets even more heartbreaking—this marks her fifth winless fight in a row, a stark contrast to her once-promising career.
UFC Vegas 111 kicked off on Saturday night at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas, featuring a welterweight main event between the unranked Randy Brown and first-time headliner Gabriel Bonfim. Despite some criticism surrounding the card, the event started strong with back-to-back submission victories from the impressive 18-1 Daniel Marcos and Zach Reese, a training partner of Sean Strickland. Yet, amidst these highlights, Bueno Silva’s struggle took center stage.
Once on the brink of championship glory, Bueno Silva earned a title shot in 2024 after submitting former champion Holly Holm in the first round. However, her triumph was short-lived. The win was overturned to a no-contest after she tested positive for a banned substance, which she attributed to her ADHD medication. Since then, her career has taken a downward spiral, with losses to Raquel Pennington (in a title fight), Macy Chiasson, Jasmine Jasudavicius (at flyweight), and most recently, Jacqueline Cavalcanti, in her return to the bantamweight division.
And this is the part most people miss: Cavalcanti’s victory wasn’t just about outstriking Bueno Silva—it was a strategic dismantling across three rounds, leaving the former title challenger with a battered left eye. While the fight wasn’t exactly a crowd-pleaser, Cavalcanti’s unanimous decision win (30-27, 30-27, 29-28) showcased her rising potential.
With this win, Cavalcanti extends her streak to eight consecutive victories, including a flawless 5-0 record in the UFC Octagon. Currently ranked #11, she’s poised to break into the top 10, especially after defeating Bueno Silva, who holds a spot there. At this pace, Cavalcanti could soon find herself in title contention with a few more wins.
But here’s the controversial question: Is Cavalcanti’s rise a testament to her skill, or does it highlight the decline of fighters like Bueno Silva? And what does this mean for the future of the women’s bantamweight division? Let’s discuss in the comments—do you think Cavalcanti is a legitimate title threat, or is she benefiting from a shifting landscape? Share your thoughts below!
