Yana Santos (Kunitskaya) — an example of how sport transcends boundaries and unites people into a true family!

Yana Santos (née Kunitskaya) is not just a professional fighter. She is a shining example of how sport can change a person’s destiny, help overcome life’s challenges, and even become the foundation for building a strong, loving family.
From humble beginnings in kickboxing to competing on the world’s biggest stage — the UFC — Yana’s journey is one of true inspiration.

The Beginning: Kickboxing, K-1, and FEA
Yana began her fighting career in the world of striking martial arts. She started with taekwondo, then moved to Muay Thai and kickboxing. Even as a teenager, she demonstrated determination, mental strength, and outstanding fighting abilities.
Few remember that on April 16, 2011, the young athlete competed in Moldova at an FEA tournament, where she secured a confident victory over Romanian opponent Andreea Rotaru.
That fight became a key milestone in Yana’s career — at the time, she was just beginning to make a name for herself in professional sports.

Transition to MMA and UFC Career
That same year, in 2009, Yana also began training in mixed martial arts. A few years later, in 2016, she signed a contract with the world’s premier MMA organization — the UFC.
To date, Yana has had 11 fights in the UFC, winning 6 of them — including dominant victories in her two most recent bouts.
One of those victories came quite recently — on May 3, 2025 — when she defeated former divisional champion Miesha Tate by unanimous decision.
That win strengthened her position in the rankings and once again proved that Yana is still capable of competing at the highest level.

Titles and Achievements
Multiple-time champion in taekwondo and Muay Thai

World champion in grappling and MMA

Medalist in international K-1 and Muay Thai tournaments

Participant in top-tier events in the UFC, Invicta FC, and other promotions

Yana is not only a successful athlete but also a mother and a wife. In 2020, she got engaged to well-known Brazilian fighter Thiago Santos, who also competes in the UFC. In April 2022, the couple welcomed their daughter Alisa.
The family now lives in the United States, where the couple trains together and raises their children (Yana has a son from a previous relationship, and Thiago has a son from his first marriage).
Yana often shares family moments with her followers, showing how sport can bring people together not only in the gym, but in life as well.

Currently, Yana holds the #9 spot in the UFC Women’s Bantamweight rankings and continues her steady rise. Her goal is to break into the top 5 and earn a shot at the title, currently held by Julianna Peña.
Judging by her form, discipline, and fighting experience, Yana hasn’t just returned to the elite — she’s ready for new heights.

The story of Yana Santos is not just the journey of a fighter. It’s the story of a woman who used sport to overcome all obstacles, find herself, and build a family.
She inspires not only athletes, but anyone chasing their dreams despite the hardships.
Yana Santos is a powerful example of how sport can transform lives, unite destinies, and become a source of strength.

Super fight Yana Kunitskaya vs Andrea Rotaru FEA 2011 april 16 FEA History