Catching up with The Ultimate Fighter star Laura “La Jefa” Gallardo


Laura “La Jefa” Gallardo is a shining star on this season of The Ultimate Fighter. The fast-rising strawweight contender spoke with Fightbook MMA before her second fight of the season!

First things first, what would you like fans to know about you?

When I’m not training or fighting I enjoy writing. I like to write poetry or journal. I also enjoy drawing and diving into my oracle / tarot decks.

Was there any hesitation to sign up for The Ultimate Fighter? 

NOPE. I thought of it as an opportunity of a lifetime and I couldn’t say no to that. 

Were you disappointed to start the season as an alternate? Did you believe you’d ultimately get a chance in the tournament?

I was disappointed that I wasn’t chosen because it was something that I really wanted for myself. And when you don’t get the thing you want, obviously there is some sadness around that. But hearing that I was able to come on due to a girl being released, I never really thought of myself as an alternate. I know I’m just as good if not better than some of the girls. It was divine timing and the way I got on the show was how it was always meant to be. 

How do you feel about your first performance in the Octagon?I felt proud that I won, that I was able to keep a certain pace, and that I out fought my opponent. Of course there is room for improvement in some areas and I’m grateful that fight showed me the things to work on even more. 

Have you been watching this season? If so, how do you feel about how you’ve been portrayed so far?

I have been watching this season! I feel like there are various parts to me. For example, there is the fighter part, the spiritual part, the goofy part, the athlete part. I think as an athlete and a fighter I’ve been portrayed well. It does suck that viewers don’t get to see other facets of me, but that’s why I have instagram, twitter, facebook, and my website. So viewers or fans can know more about me than just the fighter/ athlete part. 

How did it feel to leave the house after the season ended?

It was a sensory explosion! Being on my phone, hearing voices from loved ones I haven’t heard. Listening to my favorite music. Being able to go wherever I wanted. It was all a lot. The great part was that as soon as I left, I met up with the friends I made. It made saying bye to each other very wholesome. 

Did any friendships you form in the house carry on after filming finished? 

Yes, I am very close to Hannah and Julianna Miller. We’ve hung out and trained together since the show has ended. 

What are your goals moving forward?

To be the best. To get the belt. To make it in the UFC and be a sustainable champ.


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