Returning to the Global Stage
Pita Macias couldn’t be more thrilled to step onto the Power Slap stage once again — this time in Abu Dhabi for Power Slap 16. For the former judo Olympian, it’s a return to international competition that feels both familiar and exciting. “It’s been a long time since I’ve gone and competed internationally,” she said. “When I was competing in judo, that’s all we did — travel around the world. Then MMA came along and it became all domestic. Now it’s time to go international again.”
While she’s never been to Abu Dhabi, Macias is eager to embrace the new experience and represent Power Slap on one of its biggest global stages.
Recharging and Refocusing
Since her Power Slap debut in Las Vegas — a memorable clash with Chelsea Dodson — Pita has been recharging, refocusing, and fine-tuning her game. “My strength and conditioning coach Becky at the UFC Performance Institute takes care of all that,” she explained. “But this camp, I went back home and worked one-on-one with my dad. He’s coached me in almost everything my whole life. He just sees things differently.”
Without giving away too much, Pita hinted that the adjustments made with her father will be a “huge game changer” this time around. The focus, she says, is on precision, control, and unlocking even more power behind her strikes.
Leaving Distractions Behind
After competing at home in Las Vegas, where she’s based, Macias is looking forward to a new environment — one that allows her to zone in on the fight without distractions. “For Power Slap, I’ve only ever competed in Vegas. I live right across from Circa, so it’s kind of like fighting in your backyard,” she said. “I’m excited to actually pack and leave — to be away, focused entirely on Power Slap.”
She’s quick to add that while fans often tie her name to Ronda Rousey from their judo days, the connection doesn’t faze her. “We’ve known each other most of our lives, but it doesn’t affect me. Other people might think it does, but I’m focused on what I have to do.”
Stronger Than Ever
Pita competed at 125 pounds in her last bout but admits she was much lighter at the time. “I was basically a strawweight,” she said. “It took everything I had just to get up to 124.” This time, things are different. “My strength coach had me put on muscle. I feel really strong. I actually have some weight behind me this time.”
That added size and strength may prove crucial as she faces Italian standout Micol Di Segni, who’s coming off a win over Chelsea Dobson. “I’ve trained with Micol before,” Pita shared. “She’s awesome — a great person and fighter. I think we’re going to put on a great show.”
The Matchup with Micol Di Segni
While both women respect each other, Pita knows she’ll need to be sharp and disciplined to win. “The big thing is making sure I don’t foul,” she emphasized. “The power’s there, but it’s about aiming small, hitting small — hitting the target clean every time.”
And when asked what she’d say directly to Di Segni, Pita didn’t hesitate:
“Let’s go out there and put on a show. Let’s show everyone that women can be just as entertaining as the men. We’re going to make this a fight to remember.”
Looking Ahead
Pita admits she feels more at home at 125 pounds for now, though she’s open to dropping back to strawweight if that division begins to expand. “There’s just more opportunity at 125 right now,” she said. “But I can make strawweight pretty easily. I’m still a natural 115er.”
Either way, she’s confident that her athleticism, experience, and renewed focus will carry her far. “I feel good. I feel strong. And I’m just ready to perform.”
Final Thoughts
For Pita Macias, Abu Dhabi represents more than just another fight — it’s a moment of redemption, growth, and global recognition. “We get to compete in Abu Dhabi. How incredible is that?” she said. “It’s time to go out there, have fun, and show the world what we can do.”