Strawweights Miranda Granger and Cory McKenna were both looking to return to the win column at UFC Vegas 59 on Saturday.
While Dana White’s Contender Series alum McKenna had captured a victory over Kay Hansen in her promotional debut in 2020, after an extended absence, she had faltered in her return, dropping a split decision to Elise Reed at UFC London this past March.
Granger was in a tougher spot, having lost two straight coming into Saturday’s fight.
McKenna used her right hand to punch her way in early on Saturday, with Granger having a blatant advantage in height and reach. Granger fired off a low kick, but Mckenna would again close the distance, put Granger up against the fence, and eventually secure a takedown. Granger did pop up, only for McKenna to hoist her up and plant her back down away from the fence. From there, McKenna went to work in half guard, looking for submissions including a Von Flue, and riding out the round with plenty of control time.
Within 30 seconds, McKenna had a slam takedown in round two. Granger briefly had McKenna’s neck, but couldn’t hold on to it. Instead, it was Cory McKenna sinking in a Von Flue and this time forcing the tap!
Official Result: Cory McKenna def. Miranda Granger by submission (Von Flue choke), Round 2, 1:03
