Molly McCann, a prominent figure in mixed martial arts, has officially announced her retirement following a remarkable 11-year career. The announcement came during UFC London on March 22, 2025, where McCann concluded her final fight with a loss to Alexia Thainara via first-round submission, leaving her professional record at 14 wins and 8 losses.
At 34 years old, McCann reflects on her journey that began at the age of 24 when she first stepped into the gym where she nurtured her passion for combat sports. During a deeply emotional announcement, she expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the support throughout her career and her commitment to the UFC. “I started this sport at 24, I walked into that gym with these three boys, and I've given you all my fing heart and soul,” McCann stated. The fighter emphasized her feelings of dissatisfaction, declaring, “I'm not coming in here just for the payday. The UFC deserves more, I deserve more, and you all deserve more.”
McCann's career has been nothing short of spectacular. Known affectionately as “Meatball” due to her time working at Subway, she gained fame for making history as the first Englishwoman to win in the Octagon and earning numerous accolades—including three Performance of the Night bonuses and one Fight of the Night award. Her journey included stints with England’s Shock n’ Awe promotion and capturing the flyweight title in Cage Warriors before signing with the UFC.
However, her road to success has not without challenges. After her high-profile victory at UFC London in 2021, McCann faced a rough patch, losing four of her five bouts since November 2022, including her final fight where she was submitted in the first round. She stated she was ready to retire even before her last fight, yet encouragement from her coach Paul Rimmer reignited her competitive spirit.
Upon her retirement, McCann was visibly emotional, and fellow fighter Paddy Pimblett could be seen tearing up in the crowd, sharing in the momentous occasion. Having been allies since their training days back in 2013, Pimblett's tears encapsulated the sentiment of her farewell. McCann remarked, “Thank you so fing much. To the little girls at home, look at me. Look what I managed to do.”
Following her retirement announcement, McCann made it clear that she remains passionate about the sport and offered her services to UFC President Dana White as an ambassador. “If you ever need an ambassador to fly around Europe, I'm good on the ale,” she said enthusiastically.
Beyond her fighting career, McCann is also venturing into managing a coffee shop and restaurant, illustrating her versatility beyond the octagon. Embracing the joy of retirement, she expressed her satisfaction with the path her life has taken, noting her future looks promising.
The mixed martial arts community has responded with warm messages and respect for McCann’s contributions to the sport. Reflecting on her career, many fans and fellow fighters have lauded her determination and spirit, underscoring her role as a trailblazer for future generations of female fighters.
As she steps away from the competition, the legacy that Molly McCann has built throughout her career will resonate within the MMA community for years to come. Her journey from a girl training in her local gym to an icon in the UFC is a poignant reminder of dedication and resilience, inspiring many to chase their dreams.
Ultimately, McCann's retirement marks the end of an era but also the beginning of new opportunities for the fighter who was more than just a competitor. She embodied the spirit of the sport and forever holds a special place in the hearts of her fans.
