Tabatha Ricci targets spot on September's UFC Paris card and 'ready for whoever'

Tabatha Ricci is not in the business of calling out specific opponents, but she does see an attractive date on the UFC calendar.

Ricci (10-2 MMA, 5-2 UFC) is on the upward assent in the strawweight division with five victories in six appearances, including a split decision win over perennial contender Tecia Pennington at UFC on ESPN 56 in May.

The 29-year-old said she’s taking the slow and steady approach to her career, and ideally would like to get back in the octagon as part of the UFC Fight Night card in Paris on Sept. 28.

“I want to fight in September – I would love to fight at UFC Paris,” Ricci told MMA Junkie Radio during a recent interview at UFC X. “I’m not in a rush in my career. I’m getting better with each fight. I’m going to fight again this year, so it doesn’t matter when.”

Ricci, No. 13 in the latest USA TODAY Sports/MMA Junkie strawweight rankings, said she doesn’t see any particular matchup that makes sense for her on the card in France. Ideally she would fight an opponent with a number above her, but ultimately, she would accept any offer.

“I don’t have no one on my mind,” Ricci said. “I’m ready for whoever. I do my job in training.”