Cris Cyborg, a dominant figure in mixed martial arts, views opening opportunities for women in the sport as the most significant accomplishment of her career. As she faces what could be her last MMA fight against Cat Zingano, Cyborg reflected on key moments that have defined her journey.
Her UFC debut victory in 2016 against Lina Lansberg, which followed persistent calls from fans for her signing, stands out. She also fondly recalls her 2020 win over Arlene Blencowe to retain her Bellator featherweight title and her 2024 victory against compatriot Larissa Pacheco.
When Cyborg steps into the cage against Zingano, she will extend her record to 14 consecutive world-title fights, the most by any woman in MMA history. She is also poised to further her record for most knockouts by a woman, with 21 to her name, significantly ahead of second-place Amanda Nunes with 13.
Cyborg attributes her extended success in MMA to maintaining humility. "When you are champion for a long time you have to be humble because sometimes you think you're a world champion who knows everything," she stated. "I always step in the cage and gym open to learn. I'm a better fighter today at 41 than 21. When I lose I don't feel like I'm going to quit. I say I'm going to train and beat the person next time."
While Cyborg has not definitively announced her retirement, she has suggested that her upcoming fight could be her final MMA bout. She has expressed a desire to focus more on professional boxing, where she has achieved six victories. Beyond combat sports, Cyborg has also revealed an interest in pursuing a career as a veterinary surgeon, a long-held childhood dream.
"This is one dream when I was a young kid, and I love animals, I love to be around animals. I don't just do this because I want to be famous or money," Cyborg said. "Being a vet is one of the things I love to do because I love animals, I have a passion. I have many pets - cows, horses, pigs. I have a dog, a cat, a fish, a bird, I have a lot."