Wang Cong Embraces Joker Persona Ahead of UFC Flyweight Title Fight

Chinese fighter Wang Cong is set to make a bold statement in her bid for the vacant UFC flyweight world title, employing a distinctive "Joker" persona inspired by the playing card. Cong will face Brazilian fighter Natalia Silva on Saturday at UFC 332 in Salt Lake City, hoping her unique pre-fight ritual instills fear in her opponent.

Cong, 34, who is currently on a four-fight win streak, believes her striking persona, which includes green hair, white face paint, and a red grin, enhances her performance. "When I have paint on I feel crazy. It makes me perform better, it inspires me," Cong told BBC Sport. "It means the most powerful card, so I want to be the most powerful."

This persona has previously bewildered opponents at weigh-ins. Cong has a history of unique pre-fight gestures, including tossing an imaginary coin and pretending to shoot a gun before a fight in 2024, and gifting her opponent fake eyelashes in July. Cong hinted that Silva can expect another surprise before their bout.

Silva, 29, enters the contest with an impressive 14-fight win streak across various promotions and is considered the favorite. The belt was vacated last month when Valentina Shevchenko was forced to withdraw due to injury. Silva, ranked number one in the flyweight division, was initially slated to face Shevchenko for the title.

Cong acknowledged some surprise that she, ranked sixth, was chosen for the title fight. "To be honest I was a little bit surprised but if you see the rankings, the girls ranked higher than me have either a fight booked or they have just fought," she said. "I'm on a four-win streak so that makes sense."

The fight marks the first women's main event in the UFC since January 2025. Cong expressed pride in representing women's MMA, especially after a period of perceived underrepresentation in the UFC's main events. "It's meaningful to be flying the flag for women's MMA," she stated, also highlighting the potential for her success to inspire more athletes in China.

If Cong emerges victorious, she will become the second Chinese UFC champion, following former strawweight title holder Zhang Weili. "MMA is my final transition in my combat sports career. I think my success will encourage more athletes to be brave and try mixed martial arts in China," Cong added.

Addressing criticism from some fans on social media who questioned her deservingness for the title shot, Cong offered a direct response: "I've got nothing to say right now. After my fight I think they will shut up."