Cris Cyborg has carved out a legacy in mixed martial arts (MMA) that few athletes can match. With titles from prestigious organizations like UFC, Bellator, Strikeforce, and Invicta FC, Cyborg has established herself as one of the sport’s greats. Her impressive 28-2 record is bolstered by victories over elite competition, including Gina Carano and Holly Holm. Yet, one glaring absence remains—an opportunity to compete within the ONE Championship realm. Cyborg recently captured the PFL superfight women’s featherweight title by defeating Larissa Pacheco, a feat that adds to her illustrious collection of championships but leaves one question unanswered: could she secure a title within ONE Championship as well?
Despite her stellar résumé, the ONE Championship currently lacks a dedicated women’s featherweight division, which creates a dilemma for Cyborg. This absence means that, while there is interest from both Cyborg and ONE’s management, or at least vice president Rich Franklin, any potential matchup would require significant organizational changes. Franklin’s remarks indicate that conversations around Cyborg’s possible entry into their ranks are not merely theoretical. As a fan of the sport, Franklin expressed his personal intrigue in seeing Cyborg pursue yet another championship—a sentiment that mirrors the curiosity shared by many MMA enthusiasts.
The lack of a women’s featherweight division in ONE raises questions regarding how MMA organizations structure their weight classes and divisions. Cyborg’s primary fighting weight has been 145 pounds, and her dominance in this category has come at a time when other divisions may not offer suitable opponents. The continued expansion of women’s divisions across various promotions highlights the necessity for organizations like ONE Championship to adapt and consider the interests of athletes outside their existing frameworks. If Cyborg continues to attract attention and excitement, it could prompt a reevaluation of how divisions are structured, putting pressure on ONE Championship to create opportunities for competitors in this weight class.
Cyborg’s ability to draw attention and generate buzz cannot be understated. Fans are eager for fresh matchups, and her inclusion in ONE Championship could bolster its visibility in the competitive MMA landscape. Franklin’s candid comments reflect a broader desire to see iconic fighters test themselves against new challenges. The rich history behind Cyborg’s accomplishments adds weight to any future bouts she may have, making her a marketable and intriguing figure.
While it remains unclear if Cyborg will indeed step into the ONE Championship octagon, what is evident is the interest levels from both sides. The potential for Cyborg to conquer a new arena offers excitement for casual fans and dedicated followers alike. If the organizational structure can accommodate a women’s featherweight division, the MMA community may witness yet another thrilling chapter in Cyborg’s storied career. The coming months will be crucial—how ONE Championship navigates this landscape could redefine the opportunities available for elite female fighters like Cris Cyborg.