McKenna 'respects' UFC cut but hopes to return

Cory McKenna has won eight and lost four of her 12 professional contests

Cory McKenna says she respects a decision to cut short her contract with the UFC and retains hope of a return to the promotion in the future.

Welsh strawweight McKenna revealed she had been cut following her split decision defeat to Julia Polastri at UFC Fight Night 244 on 12 October.

The 25-year-old from Cwmbran fought in the UFC six times with a 3-3 record, but lost her last two contests.

"Although the decision not to let me fight out my contract came as a surprise, I respect it," McKenna said on social media.

"I gave my all and have given my heart, soul and body to this sport for 15 years. No excuses, no complaints."

McKenna says she will now look to "rebuild and move forward" but would welcome a chance to return to UFC after recent suggestions from chief executive Dana White that he is considering a lighter 105lbs class.

"I did see Dana White mention potential for atomweight, so all I will ask is, maybe think of me if it happens," she added.

McKenna earned her spot in UFC through White's Contender Series in 2020, and hit the headlines in August 2022 by becoming the first female in UFC history to earn a submission win with a Von Flue choke.

Her original opponent for UFC 244, Polyana Viana, withdrew to be replaced by fellow Brazilian Polastri.

The Welsh fighter scored the only takedown of the bout in Las Vegas, but while one judge scored the fight 29-28 in her favour, two judges gave the decision to her opponent 30-27 and 29-28.

"I gave it my all on Saturday night, and losing a split decision against a tough opponent on a 2 week notice change up is not how I thought things would end," McKenna said.

"But, I'm 25 with experience beyond my years, in and out of the cage, so I'm excited to see how we can rebuild and move forward, with whatever life decides is my path."