Conversations with Tabatha “Baby Shark” Ricci

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tabatha “Baby Shark” Ricci.

Hi Tabatha, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
My name is Tabatha Ricci and I’m an active professional MMA fighter for the UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship) with a record of 7-1. I was born and raised in Birigui-SP, Brazil, and am currently living in California. My journey in martial arts began at 6 years old when my father, Carlos Salto “Trovao” (Judo Black Belt), introduced me to this world. When I was 15, I began fighting Muay Thai and had a few successful fights with good winnings, including the Brazilian Nationals. At 17, I started training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and won two world titles (a blue belt in Brazil and a purple belt in Irvine, CA). I’ve earned a second-place World Championship with gi in Long Beach, CA, and a second-place World Championship no gi in Anaheim, CA.
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In addition to fighting, I’m a Jiu-Jitsu instructor at Paragon BJJ, teaching and inspiring people to be the best version of themselves. I hope to always motivate people to follow their dreams, no matter where they come from or what others say. I do what I do not only for me but for everyone that is with me on this journey – my family that has supported me since day one and my friends who cheer me on and give me the power to keep going. I am so grateful for everything I’ve achieved until now. I’ll keep working hard and can’t wait for what’s coming next.

We all face challenges, but would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road has had interesting twists and turns but has taken me to where I need to be. It was not easy to leave home, my family, and my friends. Coming to a new country and learning a new language was difficult but an amazing experience. Any problems I have had I have been able to overcome through the network of amazing people I have developed trying to live my dream.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a martial artist and a fighter but I am also a teacher. I teach stand-up martial arts boxing and muay Thai but I specialize in grappling. Grappling and Judo are special traditions that are really passed down from person to person.

I love to teach and inspire the younger generation, especially young women. Empowering others and motivating them to live to their potential and follow their dreams. One of the attributes, I believe, that set me apart from others is how much I enjoy the process. The training and preparation it takes to compete among some of the best athletes in the world.

How can people work with you, collaborate with you, or support you?
Share my story and root for me on fight night! I am getting involved in several charities, check my IG (@tabatha.ricci.) to support these causes such as shark conservation.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.tabatharicci.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tabatha.ricci/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TabathaRicciFS
• Linkedin: https://www.tapology.com/fightcenter/fighters/81538-tabatha-ricci
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/TabathaRicci
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@tabathababysharkricci8220/channels
• Other: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tabatha_Ricci 

Image Credits
Juan Cardenas