The UFC’s strawweight division has a plethora of talent just waiting for their shot. With champion Weili Zhang ready and willing to face all challengers, the top fifteen is looking for any path to get to the top. One member of that list is willing to bide her time.

Amanda Ribas is ranked 15th in the UFC’s strawweight rankings. 3-0 since joining the UFC, the 26-year-old has taken down ranked opponents with ease. As she climbs up the ladder, however, she wants do things her own way. One of them is fighting the unranked and often-injured Paige VanZant.

Calling her out via social media and through her husband Austin Vanderford, Ribas (9-1) believes fighting VanZant (8-4) is the perfect opportunity for her.

“It would be so good,” Ribas stated to MMA Junkie. “She fights like she doesn’t stop. All the time kicking and striking, I think it would be an exciting fight with me and her. I hope she says.”

VanZant last fought in January 2019, beating Rachael Ostovich. She has since been recovering after once again fracturing her arm. “12 Gauge” has only fought twice since 2016 and is 2-3 in her last five. Like Maycee Barber, Ribas may not need VanZant to boost her credibility. She would, however, like to be the first big test for VanZant whenever she returns.

One of Ribas’ methods to succeeding is to not rush things. Her dad mentioned to her to enjoy the little things. The UFC is looking to continue to hold events, even with the coronavirus situation. Ribas may be ready for a title shot sooner than she thinks. Right now, however, she is ready and willing to put it all on the line to prove herself against whoever is on the UFC’s roster.

“I think I’m an ambitious girl, so I think at the end of this year or the beginning of next year,” Ribas said. “I need more fights. I know that. Not just for the rankings, but for me. I need more experience with the UFC, with the fans and maybe the end of this year or the beginning of next year (I will be a title contender).”