Cris Cyborg is aiming for one final major fight before officially retiring from her illustrious mixed martial arts career. The legendary WMMA figure took on undefeated Sarah Collins in the co-main event at PFL Lyon, battling for the featherweight title at the LDLC Arena in Decines, France. Cyborg secured the championship with a third-round submission via facecrank, and during her post-fight interview, she revealed plans for a memorable retirement bout.
Cyborg has shown interest in facing bantamweight Leah McCourt or possibly meeting PFL star Dakota Ditcheva in a catchweight fight. Despite Ditcheva competing at 125 pounds—20 pounds lighter than Cyborg’s last fight weight—the Brazilian icon expressed her readiness to get into shape for the challenge, acknowledging Ditcheva’s dominance in her division.
With a career spanning more than two decades, Cyborg has amassed titles across Strikeforce, Bellator, UFC, PFL, and Invicta. She anticipates concluding her journey in MMA when her PFL contract ends in 2026 but remains motivated by her team and the upcoming celebration of 21 years in the sport. Cyborg is committed to enjoying every moment in the cage and ring as she prepares for the final chapters of her fighting legacy.
Fan Take: Cris Cyborg’s impending retirement marks the end of an era for women’s MMA, highlighting her role as a trailblazer who paved the way for future generations. Her potential matchups, especially against rising stars like Dakota Ditcheva, promise exciting narratives that could help evolve and elevate the sport even as one of its greatest warriors steps away.
