With her gloves laid down on the cage floor, McCann, 34 and a prominent figure in the UFC, humbly explained her decision during the post-fight interview.
“You don’t live off your past performances, you live off your current ones, and I’m not good enough right now,” she said, acknowledging that her skills had not reached the level required to continue her career at the highest level.
McCann’s impact on the sport extends far beyond her own career. As one of the most successful female fighters from the UK, she played a pivotal role in growing the UK MMA scene within the UFC. But perhaps her greatest legacy is how she inspired a generation of young women to pursue MMA.
Molly’s journey began as a young girl watching Rhonda Rousey dominate the sport and it was Rousey’s influence that sparked McCann’s own passion for martial arts. Now, after years of competing in the UFC, McCann has grown through her MMA journey and has become a role model for countless women who’ve followed her journey and seen her rise from a hopeful newcomer to a UFC veteran.
McCann’s departure is a reminder that success at the highest level of sport isn’t solely measured by championships or victories. Her true impact lies in her ability to inspire future generations of athletes. She has proven that the power of influence can be just as significant as a world title.
We live in a time where representation matters and McCann’s career will continue to inspire young women to believe that they too can achieve greatness in a male-dominated sport. It is a legacy built not only on her fighting skills but on the message that hard work, resilience and passion can create lasting change.
McCann’s retirement also underscores a broader trend within the MMA community, where athletes recognise the responsibility they carry as role models. Many fighters on the card shared their thoughts on the importance of being a positive influence for younger generations, especially for their children.
Light heavyweight fighter, Carlos Ulberg, secured his eighth straight win as the co-main event, emphasised the significance of being a positive role model. As a father of two, Ulberg understands the impact his actions can have on his kids and wants to ensure that his legacy extends beyond his fighting career.
Similarly, Nathaniel Wood, Featherweight fighter won by unanimous decision, is also a dedicated father to a young daughter and with a second on the way. He supports the idea of teaching his children martial arts, not only for self-defense but for the life lessons it imparts.
MMA, and martial arts, is more than just a sport; it instills discipline, resilience, and growth in ways that extend well beyond the octagon. As McCann steps away from competition, the influence she’s had on her community will continue to ripple through the sport, leaving behind a legacy that transcends victories and losses.