The Substantiated Hype of Natalia Silva

Expectations associated with Natalia Silva have not yet reached a crescendo.

The fast-rising Ultimate Fighting Championship women’s flyweight prospect will look to take the next step in her development when she faces Andrea Lee as part of the UFC 292 undercard on Saturday at the TD Garden in Boston. Silva, 26, has secured 12 of her 15 career victories via knockout, technical knockout or submission—an unusually high finish rate for the 125-pound weight class.

“It speaks to my fighting mindset,” she told Sherdog.com. “When I step into the cage, I look for victory and to exploit any opportunity I see for an early finish. I always look for the best moments, whether they happen while grappling or striking. I’m ready to make that happen, and I’ve been working hard to evolve in every facet of the sport. The sorts of wins I’ve had are the result of that. It’s my dedication in training and my desire to always give my best. Every day, I look for ways to become an even better fighter.”

That competitive drive propels Silva into her latest assignment on a nine-fight winning streak. Lee, however, does not figure to be a pushover. The former Legacy Fighting Alliance champion owns a 5-5 record in the UFC, her resume highlighted by wins over Montana De La Rosa, Antonina Shevchenko, Veronica Hardy and Cynthia Calvillo.

“She’s an experienced fighter who’s been in the UFC for some time,” Silva said. “She’s pretty complete. Her striking is sharp. Her grappling is also very good. She’s strong. She’s hungry for a win since she’s coming off two losses, but I’m sure her hunger isn’t bigger than mine. I fight with all my heart, and I’m ready to do it again. I’m sure it’s going to be a very challenging fight. My key advantage, as I always say, is my will to win.”

Silva could take up residence in the Top 15 at 125 pounds if she gets past “KGB” in convincing fashion, but the Team Borracha rep remains committed to clearing one hurdle at a time.

“Andrea is ranked, but I’m not thinking about that,” she said. “My focus is on defeating her now. Then I’ll think about what’s next for me. The most important step in my career is my fight against Andrea. I’ll give everything I have when I step into the cage. No one wishes for victory more than I do.”