A day many thought they’d never see is here, Cris Cyborg will make her UFC debut at UFC 198 in Brazil.
Cyborg has called out ex-UFC Bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey for years but Dana White and the organization wouldn’t allow a catch weight fight. Now that Ronda is no longer the targeted opponent a catch-weight fight seems perfectly fine.
One of the most feared fighters in the world is finally making her way to the Octagon, as Invicta FC featherweight champion Cris “Cyborg” Justino faces Leslie Smith at UFC 198 on May 14.
The bout, which takes place at Arena da Baixada in Curitiba, Brazil, will be held at a catchweight of 140 pounds. – UFC.com
Cyborg’s arrival in the UFC opens up a world of possibilities in the women’s division. Champion Meisha Tate has already said that’d she’d welcome a catch-weight fight against Cyborg, which would do great numbers, and former champ Holly Holm says she’s willing to fight anyone in pursuit of another title match.
The elephant in the room still sits beside Ronda Rousey. Her next fight will be for the bantamweight title, that much is confirmed, but it’ll be hard to keep an active Cris Cyborg at bay. Cyborg can now ask fighters to move up a small 5 pounds to fight her and could work her way through to a title shot.
Cyborg has publicly said that the extra 5 lb cut would be nearly impossible but for a one time mega-fight against the likes of Ronda Rousey it’d be worth attempting the impossible.
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