Holly Holm has officially departed from the UFC, a decision that marks a significant turning point in her illustrious combat sports career. As one of the most recognized figures in both mixed martial arts (MMA) and boxing, Holm’s exit from the promotion not only opens new doors for her but also raises questions about her future endeavors in combat sports. With a storied career filled with remarkable achievements and notable setbacks, Holm is now poised to explore opportunities in both MMA and boxing.
Holm’s journey into the world of combat sports began over a decade ago in her hometown of Albuquerque, New Mexico. Her background as a professional boxer paved the way for her transition into MMA, where she quickly made her mark. By 2014, Holm had not only claimed the Legacy FC title but also catapulted into the UFC after a string of impressive victories. The crowning moment of her career came in November 2015, when she executed a stunning knockout of Ronda Rousey at UFC 193, shocking the sporting world and dethroning the seemingly invincible champion. This victory not only earned her the UFC Women’s Bantamweight title but also solidified her place in MMA history.
However, Holm’s trajectory in the UFC did not remain unblemished. Following her momentous victory over Rousey, she encountered a swift decline, culminating in a series of disappointing losses. The defeat at the hands of Miesha Tate just four months later marked the beginning of a challenging phase, leading to a 2-5 record in her last seven fights. This included losses to formidable opponents like Valentina Shevchenko, Cris Cyborg, and Amanda Nunes. Despite her impressive resume and historical significance in the sport, these setbacks illustrated the unpredictable nature of competition at the highest levels.
After enduring a difficult string of fights, Holm made the strategic choice to request her release from the UFC, despite having remaining fights left on her contract. This decision, as noted by her agent Lenny Fresquez, shows that Holm is ready to chart a new course for her career. Her final appearance in the octagon ended in a second-round submission loss to Kayla Harrison, a two-time Olympic gold medalist. This loss, coming after a controversial fight that was initially ruled a loss but later declared a no contest due to a failed drug test by her opponent, amplifies the transitional phase in Holm’s career.
The request to leave the UFC signifies much more than a mere contractual separation; it represents a desire for renewal and the pursuit of fresh opportunities. Holm’s established reputation in boxing could lead to enticing matchups in that arena. Notably, a rematch against Cris Cyborg, who has also dabbled in boxing, could generate significant interest and potentially reignite Holm’s boxing legacy.
As Holm embarks on this new chapter, the question remains: what does the future hold for the decorated athlete? In boxing, Holm can leverage her extensive experience and recognition to engage in high-profile matchups. With her induction into multiple boxing halls of fame and her record of 16 title defenses across three weight divisions, she stands on the cusp of a rewarding second act.
In the realm of MMA, Holm’s options are equally promising. Although her recent record may not reflect her talent, her experience against top-tier fighters makes her a valuable asset in any promotion. Holm has consistently demonstrated her ability to evolve, and venturing into new organizations could reinvigorate her competition career.
Regardless of how her next steps unfold, Holly Holm’s legacy is secure. She has bridged the gap between boxing and MMA, becoming a role model for aspiring fighters and a beacon of excellence in women’s sports. While her foray into free agency certainly suggests a pivot, it equally poses an opportunity to redefine her impact on the sporting landscape. As she stands at this crossroads, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see what this extraordinary athlete achieves next. Her journey is far from over, and the most thrilling chapters may still await.