Molly McCann refused to consider retirement ahead of UFC London as interview clip resurfaces

03/23/2025 11:46 AM

At UFC London on Saturday, Molly McCann left her gloves in the center of the Octagon and retired after suffering a shock loss.

Following a disappointing loss to Bruna Brasil back at UFC 304 last July, Molly McCann took some considerable time away from the Octagon to recover from a big leg injury.

McCann was then booked to fight Istela Nunes at UFC London on Saturday, however, Nunes withdrew just over a week out from the fight, and promotional newcomer, Alexia Thainara stepped in.

The British star was disappointingly submitted in the first round and after a few moments to reflect, McCann took off her gloves and shockingly announced her retirement.

McCann refused to consider retirement before UFC London

Following her loss to Brasil at UFC 304, the Scouser considered potential retirement due to her injury, however, decided that she still had a lot to give.

Throughout 2022, ‘Meatball’ Molly had probably her best year in the sport, scoring back-to-back spinning elbow knockouts, subsequently parading around the Octagon with a replica UFC belt.

A few days before UFC London on Saturday when she was asked whether she would be satisfied with that being the peak of her career, McCann refused to believe her career was coming to an end.

“(2022) is not (the peak), so no (I wouldn’t be satisfied), my best days are still to come, I promise you,” she told Sky Sports before the fight.

“The finishes I might never get them finishes again because you’re lucky to see men get them finishes… But for the way I overcome any obstacle put in front of me and for what my performance is coming on Saturday, I just can’t wait for you to see what’s to come,” she continued.

Molly McCann in good spirits despite MMA retirement

Despite her up-and-down record in the UFC, McCann is undoubtedly the main pioneer of women’s MMA in the UK being the first British female to ever get signed to the UFC.

A few hours removed from her emotional retirement, the 34-year-old remained in good spirits, keeping her head held high and remaining proud of her incredible career.

“Head high, I’m happy, I had a great f—— career, to everyone ending their love, I’ll get back to you soon but what a ride, thank you very much,” she said on her Instagram story.