The Long Road to Contention
McCourt’s impressive victory over Sara McMann at Bellator 300 has firmly established her as a legitimate threat in the women’s featherweight division. However, the elusive title shot has remained just out of reach, a situation compounded by the enduring dominance of Cris Cyborg. The extended period since her last major win has created a sense of uncertainty, a feeling that McCourt articulates with clear frustration. The upcoming fight between Cyborg and PFL champion Larisa Pacheco on October 19th serves as a potent reminder of the obstacles McCourt must navigate. Each passing event seems to push her opportunity further down the line, fueling her skepticism about future matchmaking. „If I’m not in there with her… I’ll believe it when I see it,“ McCourt stated, her words reflecting a deep-seated doubt about the timing and likelihood of her getting the shot she desires.
A Historic Stage and an Experienced Edge
The upcoming Bellator London card is particularly noteworthy for featuring two female athletes headlining at the iconic Wembley Stadium, a moment McCourt acknowledges with immense pride. She expressed that it’s „definitely an honor,“ highlighting the significance of their fight in promoting the advancement of women in combat sports. This recognition is vital in a field where female athletes have consistently fought for greater visibility and equal standing. When evaluating her matchup against Collins, McCourt believes her extensive experience provides a significant advantage. While Collins boasts an unblemished record, the immense pressure of a high-profile event and McCourt’s relentless fighting style could pose considerable challenges for her opponent. McCourt remarked, „I think experience always helps when you’re thrown in the deep end,“ underscoring how the unique pressures and unpredictability of fight night can unsettle even the most seasoned fighters, particularly those who may not have faced the same level of competition as McCourt.
Ambition Beyond the Rankings
McCourt’s drive to defeat Collins transcends mere divisional rankings; it’s a passionate pursuit of a guaranteed opportunity to fight for the championship. She emphatically declared, „Ideally, if I was to fight for the title, it would be against Cyborg,“ revealing her ultimate ambition. The prospect of facing Cyborg isn’t solely about achieving a personal career milestone; it’s also fueled by McCourt’s profound respect for Cyborg as a fighter and a trailblazer in women’s MMA. This blend of admiration and rivalry, coupled with her unwavering resolve to seize any chance to showcase her skills against the division’s elite, propels her forward. As McCourt prepares for her crucial fight at Wembley, all eyes will be on her performance. The outcome will not only shape the narrative for the number one contender spot but will also significantly influence the future direction of the women’s featherweight division. Whether she can translate her ambitious goals into tangible reality remains to be seen, but her journey is a testament to her tenacity and dedication to the sport. Stepping into the cage, the anticipation surrounding her fight could unlock new opportunities, potentially leading to a highly anticipated showdown with the celebrated Cris Cyborg.
