Cris Cyborg is officially a UFC champion.
The Brazilian, regarded as one of the best women combat athletes of all time, defeated Tonya Evinger in the third round at UFC 214 after a barrage of knees. While many had expected her to gain the victory, many predicted the performance differently.
Instead of her usual early onslaught, Cyborg came out a much more patient fighter than usual, picking her shots and dominating Evinger — who was remarkably tough throughout — until the series of knees put an end to the contest.
The performance also brings attention to Cyborg’s skills in a way few do. While the new UFC women’s featherweight champion is well known for her incredible strength, her striking technique can often go unnoticed — something no longer the case.
Just Like That!!!!!
Cris Cyborg TKO Tonya Evinger & become UFC FEATHERWEIGHT champ #UFC214 pic.twitter.com/O088f7WUB3— ImArya (@ImAryaWwe) July 30, 2017
We have a new featherweight champ in @criscyborg at #UFC214!! 🇧🇷 pic.twitter.com/ztSojkHXz5
— UFC Europe (@UFCEurope) July 30, 2017
What comes next is unknown, as the UFC women’s 145-pound division is hardly flooded with athletes, but with Cyborg as a figurehead, the UFC have a new weight class to get building.
