Former UFC fighter Poliana Botelho diagnosed with breast cancer, undergoes surgery
Poliana Botelho, 34, a professional fighter currently signed to Bellator MMA revealed on social media that she underwent surgery Friday to remove a lymph node after being diagnosed with breast cancer.
Botelho, who is from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, fought seven times for the UFC between 2017 and 2022 and holds pro MMA record of 9-5.
“I’m here to let you know that I’m fine and thank you for all the messages,” she stated in her Instagram post. “I had surgery to remove the nodule and I’m home now recovering … Thanks for the positive vibes.. This fight is already mine and ours 🌟 🙏🏽 ❤️
Thank @alexandraramundofisio @drapetrapilotto @dr.alessandrogrossi for taking care of me 🙏🏽
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#teambotelho #luta #lutadora #batalha #vencida #sorriso #conquista #cancer #cancerdemama #mama”
In a video, Botelho also said, “in pain, of course, but everything is going as it was supposed to go. You can be sure I’m very strong and this battle will definitely be mine.”
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In her most recent outing, Botelho defeated Helen Peralta at Invicta FC 49 in September 2022 by way of unanimous decision. She later signed with Bellator MMA but has to compete with the promotion.
