Molly McCann, a popular UFC fighter, thought about retiring after she broke her leg in a fight against Bruna Brasil last July. Despite this setback, she now believes she can achieve even more in her career.
McCann, known as “Meatball,” was injured in the UFC 304 match right at the start of the fight. This injury affected her performance, and she lost the fight to Brasil by decision.
This was McCann`s third loss in her last four fights, making her record 14 wins and 7 losses. However, after focusing on getting better, McCann is now looking forward to the future with ambitious goals.
McCann mentioned to Sky Sports before her fight with Alexia Thainara on Saturday that she has been through a very difficult time.
She believes that a good martial artist can always adapt, learn, and improve, no matter the challenges.
McCann explained that they didn`t realize how serious her injuries were after her last fight. At first, she just felt very bruised, but later tests showed the extent of the damage.
Her recovery took three months. For about 10 to 12 weeks, she couldn`t have any physical contact, which was hard for someone whose life revolves around fighting.
She lost muscle in her leg while it was healing.
McCann admitted that going to the gym and seeing the equipment made her question if she would fully recover.
“I was probably at my lowest”
The loss to Brasil was a major low point for McCann, but she has since pushed herself to come back stronger.
McCann said she was at her lowest point. She had trained very hard and felt it was unfair to lose even when she gave her best. It was a tough reality to accept.
She felt battered and was grieving, but she wouldn`t continue fighting if she doubted herself.
Despite the impact of her losses, McCann wouldn`t change her experiences. She believes she needs challenges to improve. She pointed out that she has overcome many setbacks and is still competing.
Quoting Maya Angelou, she said, “We must endure defeat but we must never be defeated,” adding that sometimes you need to lose to truly understand this.
She recalled moments in the fight against Brasil where she could have given up, but she managed to continue despite her injury.
“Opened a coffee shop, went to Ibiza, got my head down”
Due to her serious injury, McCann had to take a break from fighting. This time off allowed her to explore other interests and focus on recovery.
She started a new coffee shop, spent time relaxing in Ibiza during the summer, and then refocused on her goals.
McCann is now more involved in her businesses. She also spent time in Scotland, enjoying nature and other activities.
She realized how important her support system and friends are to her.
Moving to a lighter weight class for the first time has also given her a new perspective on her career.
McCann feels her fighting style is different at this weight. She is more patient and less rushed. She is rediscovering her love for the sport, and she feels her passion has returned at the perfect moment.
While her spinning elbow knockout was a highlight, McCann believes she is capable of even greater achievements.
She hinted that she will show something unexpected and impressive soon.
McCann believes she will be a better fighter. She is eager to overcome any challenge and is excited for what`s next.
She confidently stated that her best days in fighting are still ahead.
