Ecuador's Lucía Yépez Eyes 2028 Olympics Medal Before UFC Move

Ecuadorian wrestler Lucía Yépez has set her sights on a second Olympic medal at the Los Angeles 2028 Games, after which she intends to make a significant career move into mixed martial arts and the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).

"When I finish in Los Angeles, I feel like I will have achieved everything in wrestling, and then I will go to the UFC," Yépez stated in a recent interview. She has already discussed a potential move to MMA with fellow Ecuadorian fighters Michael Morales and Marlon 'Chito' Vera, who believe she has the necessary skills for the challenge.

Currently, Yépez's focus remains on wrestling. She is also preparing for the World Championships this year, aiming to add another medal to her collection. The 25-year-old athlete from Mocache, Los Ríos province, credits wrestling with changing the course of her life.

Her journey has not been without hardship. Yépez left her neighborhood at 14 to pursue her dream and support her mother financially. She faced family challenges, economic difficulties, and societal criticism for competing in a sport traditionally dominated by men. A severe injury during the Tokyo Olympics, which required her to use a wheelchair, was a particularly difficult period. However, she persevered, ultimately winning a silver medal in the 53kg category at the Paris 2024 Olympics, solidifying her status as a leading figure in Ecuadorian wrestling and reaching the world No. 1 ranking in her weight class.

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When I finish in Los Angeles, I feel like I will have achieved everything in wrestling, and then I will go to the UFC.