Molly McCann isn’t letting her UFC 281 loss keep her down.
McCann lost via a first-round kimura in an imposing performance by Erin Blanchfield this past Saturday at Madison Square Garden. It marks the end of an overall positive year for ‘Meatball’, who went into the fight, was riding an impressive three-fight win streak. The Evertonian took to Instagram to send a heartfelt message to her supporters in the wake of the bout.
Molly McCann Thanks the Fans
“To the fans, you’ll never quite know how special that weigh-in & that walkout was for me! This game is unforgiving, and Saturday was Erin’s time to shine and not mine! I’ll be back the firm you know me! I’ll take some time to lick my wounds then I’ll be back.”
There was certainly no shortage of home support for Molly as she brought an army of travelling supporters over to the big apple, a testament to just how big her star has risen in the UK within the past year. Blanchfield was actually booed in her backyard, something Molly pointed out at the ceremonial weigh-ins face-off.
“Thank you to the real ones!” she added. Humbling to see how loved I am in defeat! I know that’s not always the case for some!
On top of that, McCann also thanked the UFC/BT Sport staff for “making that fight week the best of my life” and her friends, family, and partner Ellis.
How the Fight Went Down
Erin Blanchfield was dominant on the front foot as she marched Molly down early on. She would then get a takedown before securing the crucifix that would eventually lead to the end. Brutal ground & pound led to the kimura that finished the fight. At just 23 years old, it’s no surprise that Blanchfield is so highly-touted, now boasting a 10-1 record with high-profile names such as Molly McCann, Kay Hansen, JJ Aldrich, and Miranda Maverick.
Gracious in defeat, McCann later in the night congratulated Erin in an interview & heaped praise on her, stating, “You deserve the run that you’re going on. You’re a true professional, and I’m proud that you got the finish in your hometown.”
Whilst this is certainly a bump in the road for Molly McCann, the gritty scouser is no stranger to bouncing back from adversity in her career & there’s little doubt she can do so again.
Do you think ‘Meatball’ Molly McCann can reach the top of the flyweight division?
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images
