Natalia Silva shares tragic reason behind seven-month hiatus ahead of UFC Vegas 97

Natalia Silva recently opened up about a heartbreaking incident that forced her out of the competition for seven months ahead of her return at UFC Vegas 97. Silva revealed that the demise of one of her family members caused her to take a break from fighting.

Silva is set to square off against Jessica Andrade in a flyweight bout on the main card of UFC Vegas 97. The fight night event will take place this weekend at the UFC APEX facility in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Silva's last octagon appearance came back at UFC Vegas 85 in February earlier this year, when she fought Viviane Araujo, defeating Araujo via unanimous decision. The Brazilian then took a break from fighting.

During the media day ahead of UFC Vegas 97, Silva was questioned about her decision to stay away from competition. In response, the 27-year-old emotionally disclosed that she had lost her sister four months prior and hence was unable to fight:

''I had a hard moment in my life. I lost my sister recently four months ago, I like to fight before but I can't.''

Check out Natalia Silva's comments below (via MMA Junkie on X):

Silva also discussed her matchup with Andrade, saying:

''I think this is my opportunity, I can do this. Jessica it is a good name in UFC and I need accept this opportunity and show my skills.''

Check out Natalia Silva's comments below (2:36):

Silva (17-5-1) is currently ranked eighth in the women's flyweight division and is undefeated since making her promotional debut with a unanimous decision win against Jasmine Jasudavicius at UFC on ESPN 37. She is on an 11-fight win streak heading into UFC Vegas 97.

Meanwhile, Andrade (26-12) was on a three-fight losing streak before bouncing back with a second-round knockout win against Mackenzie Dern at UFC 295. In her last octagon outing at UFC 300, the former strawweight champion defeated Marina Rodriguez via split decision.

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Jessica Andrade previews Natalia Silva clash at UFC Vegas 97

Rising prospect Natalia Silva is scheduled to face UFC veteran Jessica Andrade in the co-main event of UFC Vegas 97 this weekend.

At the UFC Vegas 97 media day, Andrade discussed her matchup with Silva. The 32-year-old acknowledged her fellow Brazilian by saying:

''I think this is great matchmaking. It’s two good styles of fighting...I think it’s a girl I see what she’s all about. I’ve seen her since she’s come to the UFC. I’ve followed her. I’ve cheered her on ever since she’s come here. So I think it’s going to be a good fight since she’s come here.” [H/t: MMA Junkie]