Can Dominant Cyborg Defeat Collins and Challenge Ditcheva Next?

Cris Cyborg has continued her impressive winning streak by submitting Sara Collins at PFL Lyon, maintaining her featherweight title and extending her undefeated run since 2018. With this victory, Cyborg, a two-time champion in mixed martial arts (MMA), is now looking towards a potential final fight against Briton Dakota Ditcheva, marking a significant moment in her illustrious 20-year career.

Last updated: 26 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Cris Cyborg's latest victory over Sara Collins at PFL Lyon not only reinforces her dominance in the featherweight division but also sets the stage for her potential retirement fight in 2024. At 40 years old, Cyborg is contemplating a transition to boxing before concluding her MMA career, indicating her desire to leave the sport on a high note. Her call-out of Dakota Ditcheva, an undefeated flyweight fighter from Manchester, highlights her ambition to challenge herself against younger competitors in her final bout.

Key takeaways

Cris Cyborg submitted Sara Collins to retain her featherweight title.
This win marks Cyborg's ninth consecutive victory and her first submission win in over 30 fights.
Cyborg plans to retire next year, eyeing a final MMA fight and potential boxing matches.
She has called out Dakota Ditcheva and Leah McCourt for her last MMA bout.
Vadim Nemkov won the PFL heavyweight title by submitting Renan Ferreira, solidifying his two-division champion status.

Timeline: how we got here

Here's a brief overview of key events leading up to Cyborg's recent victory and future plans:

2018: Cyborg last lost a fight, marking the start of her current winning streak.
2023: Cyborg retained her featherweight title at PFL Lyon against Sara Collins on 26 October.
2023: PFL acquired Bellator, rebranding Cyborg's title.
2024: Cyborg plans to retire, eyeing a final fight by the end of the year.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Cris Cyborg's win against Sara Collins is significant not just for the title defence but also for marking her plans for retirement and the possibility of future bouts in boxing. Additionally, her challenge to Ditcheva and McCourt indicates her desire to create a compelling finale to her career.

What was already established

It has been established that Cyborg is one of the most successful female fighters in MMA history, with a record of 29 wins in 32 fights. Her dominant style, characterised by powerful striking, has been a staple of her career. The PFL's acquisition of Bellator has also been a pivotal development in the sport, affecting title recognitions and fighter matchups.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

Cyborg's potential matchup with Briton Dakota Ditcheva could attract significant attention in the UK, potentially leading to increased viewership and interest in MMA, which may also affect merchandise sales and event attendance. Additionally, the dynamics of female MMA continue to grow, showcasing the rise of British fighters.

Businesses and jobs

The excitement surrounding Cyborg's final fights may boost local businesses in the areas where the events are held, particularly in terms of hospitality and tourism. Fight promotions like PFL are likely to see increased sponsorship and advertising revenue as they capitalise on the buzz generated by high-profile bouts.

Policy and regulation

The growing popularity of female MMA fighters like Cyborg and Ditcheva may lead to future policy considerations within UK sports governing bodies, particularly around funding and support for women's sports. The attention on these fighters could encourage more investment in training facilities, coaching, and promotional activities for aspiring female athletes.

Numbers that matter

32: Total fights in Cris Cyborg's career, with 29 wins and only 2 losses.
9: Consecutive wins for Cyborg since her last defeat in 2018.
21: Number of wins by knockout in Cyborg's career, highlighting her striking power.
15: Total fights for Dakota Ditcheva, with 12 wins by stoppage, showcasing her finishing ability.
2: Number of divisions in which Vadim Nemkov is a champion, demonstrating his versatility and skill.

Definitions and jargon buster

MMA: Mixed Martial Arts, a full-contact combat sport that allows a variety of fighting techniques.
PFL: Professional Fighters League, a major MMA promotion known for its league format.
Rear-naked choke: A submission technique that involves wrapping the arm around the opponent's neck from behind, restricting airflow.
Knockout: A fight-ending event where one fighter is unable to continue due to strikes or damage.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the upcoming weeks, fans should watch for updates regarding Cyborg’s potential opponents for her retirement fight and any announcements from PFL regarding her next bout and Ditcheva's fight schedule.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As 2024 approaches, there may be further developments in Cyborg's career and the potential for her to transition into boxing. Fans should also anticipate increased media coverage and promotional activities surrounding her final fight.

Signals to watch

Results of Dakota Ditcheva's upcoming fight in February.
Official announcements from PFL regarding Cyborg's plans for her retirement bout.
Commercial partnerships or sponsorships that may emerge due to the heightened interest in women's MMA.

Practical guidance

Do

Follow PFL and MMA news outlets for the latest updates on Cyborg and Ditcheva’s fight schedules.
Engage with local MMA events to support the growth of the sport.
Consider purchasing merchandise from fighters to show support.

Don’t

Ignore the evolving dynamics of women’s MMA as they become increasingly prominent in sports.
Miss out on opportunities to attend live events, as they can be significant for local economies.
Dismiss the impact of social media in promoting fighters and events.

Checklist

Stay updated on fight announcements and schedules.
Check local listings for upcoming MMA events.
Engage with fighter social media profiles for insights and news.
Participate in discussions about women’s MMA to elevate awareness.
Support local MMA gyms and training programs.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While Cyborg's intentions for a final fight and the possibility of transitioning into boxing are clear, there are inherent uncertainties. For instance, her ability to cut weight effectively for a catchweight fight remains in question, particularly given her previous comments about the difficulties of weight management. Additionally, Ditcheva's upcoming fight results could greatly influence the feasibility of a matchup. As Cyborg approaches retirement, the potential for injuries or changes in her physical condition could also impact her plans.

Bottom line

Cris Cyborg's recent victory and her plans for retirement signify a pivotal moment in her career. As she looks towards her final fight, the potential matchup with Dakota Ditcheva could draw significant attention to women’s MMA in the UK. With the sport continuing to grow, Cyborg's legacy as one of the greatest female fighters will likely inspire future generations. It's an exciting time for fans and fighters alike in the realm of mixed martial arts.

FAQs

What is Cris Cyborg's fight record?

Cris Cyborg has a professional MMA record of 29 wins and 2 losses, with 21 of those victories coming by knockout.

When is Cris Cyborg planning to retire?

Cyborg has announced her intention to retire next year, with plans for one final fight in MMA before potentially pursuing boxing.

Who is Dakota Ditcheva?

Dakota Ditcheva is an undefeated flyweight fighter from Manchester, known for her impressive knockout power and skill in the octagon.