UFC Strawweight Tatiana Suarez Expects to Return Soon After ‘Minor Setback’

Tatiana Suarez doesn’t expect to be sidelined for too long after an injury forced her to withdraw from UFC 298.

The strawweight contender was slated to face former title challenger Amanda Lemos on Feb. 17 at the Honda Center in Anaheim, California. Instead, Mackenzie Dern will step in on short notice to square off against the Brazilian.

Suarez took to Instagram to address her injury. While she didn’t go into specifics, the 33-year-old Californian offered a relatively positive outlook regarding her Octagon return.

“I’m making this post because I know there are many people who support me that are concerned. I won’t be out for long. A minor setback,” Suarez wrote on Instagram. “I asked to postpone just a few weeks so I could heal up and train. Unfortunately, that didn’t happen. Sometimes it’s just not meant to be.”

I apologize to [Amanda Lemos]. Some things are just out of our control. Injuries happen; it’s part of the game. I’m thankful it’s not something that will keep me out for an extended amount of time. All I can do now is focus on the things I can control, and that’s stay on the grind. Mentally focused and continuously learning and evolving. Doing what I can and striving for greatness every day. Even if that’s a lift, a mitt session or simply watching film. I’ll continue to make my run this year.”

Suarez began her professional tenure with eight consecutive triumphs – including five under the UFC banner. However, struggles with injuries led to her taking a hiatus from the sport that lasted more than three years. Suarez returned to action in 2023 to post back-to-back submission victories over Montana De La Rosa and Jessica Andrade.