The UFC is known as MMA’s ultimate proving ground. And as history has shown, even the greatest and most experienced of athletes enter and can’t find their footing right off the bat.
Often targeted as the biggest obstacle one can face entering into the Octagon is ‘UFC jitters’. Something that promotional newcomer, Megan Anderson showed no sign of last night at UFC 225.
From interviews and staredowns during the big fight week to her walk out in Chicago’s United Center, Australia’s Anderson was calm, cool and collected through it all.
The former Invicta FC featherweight champion, Anderson entered into her UFC debut having not fought since January 2017 when she became the champion. As the fight began, the 28-year-old showed no signs of ring rust as she stunned her opponent, Holly Holm early by punching her way in close to land nice step knee to elbow combination against the fence.
One round in.@MeganA_MMA has showed NO NERVES. #UFC225 pic.twitter.com/g5Wk0hHJzp
— UFC (@ufc) June 10, 2018
But being the very seasoned combat sports athlete that Holm is, she surprised everyone when her gameplan turned into that of a grappler’s as she used her timing for takedowns rather than her usual counter-striking that we’re accustomed to seeing.
Holm spoiled the UFC debut of the organization’s second legitimate 145-pound female signing by unanimous decision. Anderson shared her first thoughts since the fight in a post on Instagram today.
Didn’t get the results we wanted. Holly’s team came with a great game plan and was able to execute it better on the night.
I am truly blessed to be able to do what I love and I had a lot of fun doing it. Grateful to finally be fighting in the UFC and I showed that I belong last night.
Thank you to everyone who sent messages and comments of support 🙏🏻 We’ll be back stronger than ever and ready to work our way to that Title 💪🏻 #UFC225
The loss was only Anderson’s third of her 11 fight career as it snapped a four-fight winning streak.
This article first appeared on BJPenn.com on 6/10/2018.