Molly McCann looked to get back in the win column in her native England when she took on newcomer Alexia Thainara at UFC London on Saturday.
Thainara was stepping in to replace Istela Nunes on all of eight days notice, making her debut after winning a contract on the Contender Series last year.
Round one kicked off with Thainara setting the pace early, landing several sharp calf kicks. She quickly engaged in a striking exchange with McCann, showcasing her stand-up skills. However, just as the striking battle heated up, Thainara made a smart adjustment, shooting in for a well-timed and effortless takedown.
From her back, McCann stayed active, throwing sharp elbows and using her feet on the hips to create space and threaten with her legs. She managed to initiate a scramble, but Thainara remained composed, maintaining top control. McCann came close to securing an armbar, but Thainara’s defense was on point. She expertly transitioned to take McCann’s back, locking in both hooks.
With the rear-naked choke set up, McCann fought valiantly to defend, but a slight readjustment from Thainara deepened the hold. Unable to escape, McCann was forced to tap.
Following the loss, her second straight and fourth out of her last five, “Meatball” announced her retirement to the sport, telling girls watching at home to look at what she’d been able to achieve. One half of what was once the “Paddy and Molly Show,” McCann was the inaugural Cage Warriors flyweight champ, and went on to earn four post-fight bonuses across 14 fights with the UFC.
Official Result: Alexia Thainara def. Molly McCann by submission (rear-naked choke), Round 1, 4:32
