Luana Pinheiro was born on November 18, 1993, in Paraiba, Brazil. From a very young age, she showed a passion for martial arts, starting judo training at the age of 2. Her dedication and talent quickly became apparent, and by the time she was a teenager, she was already looking to represent Brazil in the Olympic judo team. It was during this time that Luana discovered her love for mixed martial arts and began training in 2015.
Luana's transition into MMA was seamless, thanks to her strong judo background. She quickly rose through the ranks, showcasing her skills in various promotions before catching the attention of the UFC. In 2020, Luana earned her contract with the organization after defeating Stephanie Frausto in a contender match organized by Dana White. This marked the beginning of her professional MMA career, where she has since amassed an impressive 11 to 1 record as of May 2023.
Luana made her UFC debut in spectacular fashion, facing off against Randa Markos. The fight ended in Luana's favor, as she secured the victory by disqualification. This victory further established her as a force to be reckoned with in the women's strawweight division.
Outside of the octagon, Luana is active on social media, particularly on her luapinheiromma Instagram page. With over 110,000 followers, she shares a mix of MMA-related content and glimpses into her personal life. Fans can follow along as she documents her training regimen, fights, and day-to-day activities.
One of Luana's most high-profile fights to date was against Michelle Waterson in April 2023. The match showcased Luana's skills against a seasoned veteran in the sport, further solidifying her status as a top contender in the division. While the outcome of the fight is yet to be determined, Luana's determination and skill have garnered praise from fans and critics alike.
Luana's family plays a significant role in her life, with her brothers being a source of support and inspiration. On March 12, 2023, Luana shared photos of her brothers on social media, highlighting the importance of family in her journey as a fighter.
Luana Pinheiro's journey from a young judo prodigy to a rising star in the MMA world is a testament to her dedication, skill, and passion for the sport. With each fight, she continues to impress fans and critics alike, solidifying her place as one of the top fighters in the women's strawweight division. As she continues to hone her skills and take on new challenges, Luana's future in MMA looks brighter than ever.