Molly ‘Meatball’ McCann’s Transition to Boxing
Molly ‘Meatball’ McCann, a well-known figure in the world of mixed martial arts (MMA), is set to make her professional boxing debut this Saturday, marking a significant transition in her athletic career. This transition comes just six months after her retirement from MMA, and it has been 16 years since her last boxing match. This ambitious step is part of McCann’s long-held dream of becoming a world champion in boxing, a goal she has cherished since childhood.
Overcoming Skepticism
Despite facing skepticism throughout her career, particularly during her time in the UFC, McCann is determined to overcome the odds that seem stacked against her. At 35 years old, she is aiming to win a world title in boxing within her first eight bouts.
“I’m not here to let others dictate what I can achieve or dismiss my dreams,” McCann emphasized. “It’s time to reclaim the essence of who I am and why I started fighting in the first place.”
Training and Preparation
Training at No Limits Boxing Gym in Liverpool, McCann’s journey has taken a serious turn since her retirement, which followed a series of defeats in the octagon. These setbacks did not define her; rather, they propelled her to seek new challenges in boxing, a sport she initially departed from at a young age when she was recognized as a promising amateur, even securing an ABA title.
Her ambitions are high, and while women’s boxing has seen significant growth in recent years, McCann’s success in MMA provided her with substantial earnings, reportedly over £50,000 in her last fights, which might suggest financial motives for moving to boxing. However, she insists that her motives extend beyond monetary rewards.
“I’m not pursuing boxing just for the money. I love what I do, and that drives me to take a leap into this sport for the right reasons,”
she explained.
Family Support and Future Aspirations
McCann’s transition to boxing had been on her mind for a long time, and after her last UFC fight, a pivotal phone call from her manager reignited her aspirations. Although her mother had reservations about her continuing to fight, McCann confidently informed her family about signing a contract with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing. The enthusiastic support from her family, aside from her mother, has bolstered her resolve to succeed in this new venture.
The differences between MMA and boxing are pronounced, as McCann is adapting to the unique requirements of the boxing environment, where precision and range are paramount. Training has been challenging, particularly shaking off ingrained habits from her MMA background. McCann describes the experience of forgetting her MMA instincts and focusing solely on boxing techniques as vital for her success.
Seeking guidance from seasoned boxers, including retired champion Tony Bellew, McCann is determined to establish her own identity in boxing that blends influences from various champions like Katie Taylor and Miguel Cotto. She has ambitious aspirations, aiming for a world title within eight fights, a feat accomplished by notable athletes such as Claressa Shields.
Looking Ahead
Moreover, McCann’s sights are set on showcasing her skills at iconic venues like Goodison Park by the year 2026.
“I want to achieve everything I set out to do in my life, and boxing is my last big goal,”
McCann said resolutely. Feeling the urgency of her timeline, she is prepared to demonstrate her commitment and courage in her new journey.
As McCann steps back into the ring, she is ready to make her mark and take significant strides towards fulfilling her childhood dreams.
For additional boxing updates, including a detailed schedule and results for 2025, be sure to check out more coverage from the BBC.
