When Liz Carmouche debuted in the historic first women`s UFC fight against Ronda Rousey in 2013, Ilara Joanne was an 18-year-old Muay Thai student in Brazil. Over ten years later, Joanne is set to step into the cage opposite the experienced PFL and Bellator fighter, Carmouche.
The bout between Carmouche and Joanne will serve as a co-main event at PFL 2 on April 10th in Orlando, Florida, with both competitors aiming to progress in the 2025 flyweight tournament. The prospect of fighting for a $500,000 prize feels incredible to Joanne, especially recalling her first MMA win paid less than $200 shortly after the Rousey-Carmouche fight. Facing “Girl-Rilla” in the cage feels even more unbelievable.
Reflecting on her professional debut, Joanne stated, “I had no concept of the scale of the MMA world back then. I wasn’t aware fighting MMA could be a source of income. It only struck me during my debut when I thought, ‘They’re actually paying me for this?’ That moment was a revelation. Seeing the Rousey vs. Carmouche fight and then having my own debut – that’s when I knew I was passionate about this and could turn it into a career.”
Joanne expressed her respect, saying, “It’s an honor to compete against her. I saw her initial fight on television with Ronda, and I never in my wildest dreams thought I’d stand across from someone who’s had such a significant impact on the sport globally. Be certain that I am fully prepared to give my utmost and make history by defeating her.”
Joanne began training Muay Thai at age 10 and later started following MMA, particularly Cris Cyborg`s achievements in Strikeforce. However, she didn`t truly consider MMA as a career until she was offered her professional debut fight against future UFC fighter Viviane Pereira. Despite losing her debut by second-round knockout and her second fight via submission months later, she was captivated by the sport.
Joanne secured eight victories in her subsequent ten fights, leading to a contract with Bellator. There, she joined teammates like Patricio Pitbull and Patricky Pitbull, who were already establishing their careers. In seven Bellator appearances, she earned three wins against opponents including Alejandra Lara, Bec Rawlings, and Denise Kielholtz. Having joined PFL and holding a 1-1 record in the organization in 2024, Joanne welcomes the new tournament structure, preferring the traditional grand prix style over the previous point system.
Joanne commented on the format change, saying, “I prefer the new rules because there isn’t the pressure to secure a finish within a specific timeframe just to advance. This could work to my advantage, allowing me to take the fight into the later rounds. I`m prepared for three full rounds if necessary. While strategy might adapt during the fight, this change offers a positive strategic flexibility for me. It allows you to be more relaxed and solely concentrated on securing the victory.”
Carmouche maintained an undefeated record during her time in Bellator, winning all seven of her fights, with six coming by stoppage. She notably defeated former Bellator champion Juliana Velasquez on three occasions. In her PFL debut, Carmouche submitted Kana Watanabe but subsequently lost a decision to Taila Santos. She is now focused on rebuilding her path towards winning the championship.
Addressing Carmouche`s strengths, Joanne stated, “I believe most of her previous opponents have been wary of her grappling skills, but that’s not a concern for me; it’s something I`m comfortable with. I am not intimidated by her grappling. I’ve significantly improved my striking since last year, but I feel even better prepared for a grappling exchange should the fight go there.”
Oliver Croft