This weekend, Virna Jandiroba is set to face a familiar rival, Mackenzie Dern, in the co-main event of UFC 321 in Abu Dhabi. The two will clash for the second time, battling for the vacant UFC strawweight title left behind by Weili Zhang. Jandiroba enters the bout riding a five-fight win streak, while Dern looks to extend her own two-fight run in the UFC and become a champion. But…

Before the Octagon lights up on fight night, fans seem equally intrigued by something beyond the cage—Jandiroba’s past. Questions about her origins, nationality, ethnicity, and religion have stirred curiosity online. So, before ‘Carcara’ steps in for the biggest fight of her career, here’s a closer look at who Virna Jandiroba really is.

Where is Virna Jandiroba from? Her Brazilian nationality and Bahia roots

The 37-year-old hails from Serrinha, a small city in the state of Bahia, Brazil. The area is known for its vibrant culture, deep-rooted traditions, and a passion for martial arts. Born on May 30, 1988, ‘Carcara’ proudly represents her Brazilian nationality, carrying the fighting spirit of Bahia wherever she competes.

Growing up in the northeastern region of Brazil, she was exposed to resilience, community, and determination. These are all qualities that have shaped her identity inside and outside the Octagon. Martial arts came to Jandiroba early in life, and her parents quickly picked up on it and enrolled her in kung fu classes. 

This marked the beginning of her journey into combat sports. Later in life, she expanded her expertise in judo, Muay Thai, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ). Even her nickname, ‘Carcara,’ has a connection to Brazil. The nickname comes from a resilient bird native to Brazil’s backlands—a fitting symbol for a fighter who embodies the endurance and pride of her homeland.

What is Virna Jandiroba’s ethnicity and cultural background?

While specific details about Virna Jandiroba’s ethnicity and religious beliefs remain private, her background is deeply tied to her Brazilian roots. Brazil’s population is notably diverse, with the largest ethnic group being mixed-race (Pardo)—a blend of European, African, and Indigenous ancestry. Jandiroba hails from Bahia, a state known for its vibrant Afro-Brazilian culture and rich history of cultural fusion.

According to eHRAF World Cultures, Bahia’s population is composed largely of people of mixed African and European descent, often described in historical literature as ‘mulattoes,’ along with smaller groups of primarily African or European origin. Though she hasn’t publicly discussed her ethnicity or faith, her roots in Bahia connect her to one of Brazil’s most culturally significant and diverse regions.

That being said, Virna Jandiroba clearly has deep roots in Brazil, like many of her peers in the UFC. Even her upcoming opponent, Mackenzie Dern, is part Brazilian. But which Brazilian will win Saturday night?