Holly Holm, a name synonymous with groundbreaking achievements in mixed martial arts and boxing, has recently made headlines by stepping away from the UFC and entering the realm of free agency. An iconic figure, Holm’s departure marks not just an end, but also the potential for new beginnings in both MMA and boxing.
At the age of 43, Holm’s decision to leave the UFC is striking yet not entirely unexpected. Despite having active fights left on her contract, Holm sought a release to explore new opportunities, a move that was ultimately granted by the promotion. This transition into free agency opens doors to unfamiliar avenues. Holm’s manager, Lenny Fresquez, indicated that the former champion is prepared to consider both MMA and boxing as she maps out her future.
Leaving a major organization like the UFC carries substantial implications. For Holm, it signifies a break not only from a contractual obligation but also from the pressures and expectations that come with being a top-level competitor. The request for release reflects her determination to seek a fresh start and reinvigorate her career that has experienced both remarkable highs and challenging lows.
Holly Holm’s journey is forged with commendable achievements and notable setbacks. Her storied past includes a pivotal moment in MMA history when she stunned Ronda Rousey with a head kick knockout at UFC 193, securing the women’s bantamweight title – a victory that will be etched in the annals of the sport. However, the aftermath of that landmark event was fraught with challenges.
Following her triumph over Rousey, Holm fell prey to a series of defeats that significantly impacted her record, ultimately leading to a 2-5 slump against formidable opponents, including Miesha Tate, Valentina Shevchenko, and Amanda Nunes. These losses highlight the demanding nature of high-level competition, where even the most celebrated athletes can encounter relentless adversities.
Her last appearances in the octagon revealed a downward trajectory, as Holm exited the UFC after a submission defeat by Kayla Harrison at UFC 300, on the heels of another submission loss to Mayra Bueno Silva, later overturned due to Silva’s failed drug test. While these outcomes carry implications for her legacy within the UFC, they also pose questions regarding her readiness for new challenges in the combat sports arena.
Holm’s accolades extend beyond the realm of MMA; she is heralded as one of the most decorated women’s boxers with numerous title defenses across different weight classes. Her induction into the International Women’s Boxing Hall of Fame and the International Boxing Hall of Fame emphasizes her prominent status in both sports.
As she navigates the waters of free agency, potential boxing matchups could arise against past rivals like Cristiane “Cyborg” Justino. Their encounter inside the cage was a tough battle, but a rematch in a boxing ring could rejuvenate the rivalry while showcasing their respective skills in a different light. Given Holm’s comprehensive background in boxing, the likelihood of securing high-profile boxing bouts could mean a lucrative and less punishing path than MMA.
As Holm embarks on this new phase of her career, the question of whether she will focus exclusively on boxing or continue to meld her skills in both disciplines remains pertinent. Each sport offers unique challenges and environments, but Holm possesses the versatility and experience needed to thrive in either.
The landscape of women’s combat sports is continuously evolving, and Holm’s next steps could reflect her desire to remain a prominent figure within the broader narrative. Whether she chooses to pursue boxing or gives MMA another shot, one thing is certain: her legacy is far from over. Over the years, Holm has demonstrated she’s not just a talented fighter; she’s also a resilient athlete who has the ability to adapt and rise to new challenges. As fans eagerly await her next move, the horizon appears bright for Holly Holm, the former champion ready to write a new chapter in her storied career.