Molly McCann is considering a return to combat sports after retiring from UFC, potentially in boxing rather than mixed martial arts.
The fighter from Everton announced her retirement following a defeat to Alexia Thainara at UFC London last month, concluding a decade-long MMA career.
While the 34-year-old has expressed her intention to continue in competitive sports, she has dismissed the idea of participating in `influencer` boxing.
In a recent interview, McCann mentioned, `I`m sure we`ll have a big announcement in a few weeks regarding my next move.`
She added, `I`m considering competing in another sport, possibly football, Hyrox, pickleball, or paddleball. I`m keeping all options open.`
When specifically asked about boxing, she confidently stated, `I wouldn`t rule anything out.`
Regarding boxing, she clarified, `If boxing is an option, I`m not interested in Misfits events [boxing involving social media influencers], with all due respect to those who participate.`
`We`ve all been young and perhaps acted foolishly under the spotlight at times.`
`However, I believe I`ve always respected MMA and boxing. I feel `Misfits` events can send the wrong message to younger fans, promoting disrespectful behavior for viral attention. We should be teaching better values.`
`I may not have been the perfect role model, enjoying myself and gaining weight after fights.`
`But I`ve always strived for integrity, something I don`t always see in those events. My decisions have never been solely motivated by money. I am waiting for the right offers, so we shall see.`
Since her retirement announcement, McCann has reflected on her career and her impact on the sport.
Highlights for her include winning alongside her friend Paddy Pimblett in Las Vegas, joining the UFC, her interactions with Stormzy, and receiving a Rolex from Drake.
McCann stated, `Whether acknowledged or not, I have changed the landscape of the sport. I may not have won world titles, but I`ve undoubtedly had a significant impact.`
`My journey with Patrick [Pimblett] has drawn more attention to the sport.`
`For women in MMA, my legacy is significant. More women will now pursue this sport because I stepped into it.`
`Seeing more girls in gyms confirms that I`ve made a positive contribution and left the sport better than I found it.`
McCann`s MMA journey was unconventional. She signed with Liverpool FC at 16 and worked in a sandwich shop to support herself, earning her the nickname `Meatball` Molly.
She views herself as someone who achieved success through hard work, not natural talent.
McCann reflected, `I was just a girl making sandwiches who found something I was reasonably good at and dedicated myself to it.`
`This is a message for anyone, whether aiming to run a business, raise a family, or simply improve oneself.`
`You don`t need to be naturally gifted; you just need to work hard and commit to your goals.`
