From the UFC Octagon to the Boxing Ring: McCann Embarks on a New Mission
Molly McCann, better known by her moniker “Meatball Molly”, is officially swapping her UFC gloves for boxing ones. The former MMA star has signed with Matchroom Boxing, promoter Eddie Hearn announced on Thursday. McCann, one of the most beloved personalities in British combat sports, now prepares to launch her professional boxing career later this year.
“Molly McCann will compete now as a boxer — and about time, I’d like to say,” Hearn declared following the Jack Catterall vs. Harlem Eubank press conference. “We’re delighted to start the journey with her. There are going to be some massive nights ahead.”
A Difficult UFC Exit, But the Timing Was Right
McCann, 35, officially retired from MMA in March 2025 after suffering a first-round submission loss to Alexia Thainara at UFC Fight Night 255 in London. The defeat followed a tough decision loss to Bruna Brasil at UFC 304, where McCann fractured her leg with the very first kick of the fight.
In total, McCann competed 14 times in the UFC, finishing with a 7–7 record, and a professional MMA career of 14 wins and 8 losses. She became a fan-favorite in the UK, often appearing alongside Paddy Pimblett on popular home cards, creating a duo that brought Liverpool flair to the Octagon.
Despite the ups and downs, McCann leaves MMA with no regrets.
“It was just the right time to leave the sport of MMA,” she said. “I chose to leave knowing I had a career waiting for me in boxing.”
A Return to Her Roots: Boxing Pedigree and Ambition
Before finding success in MMA, McCann had an amateur boxing background, becoming an ABA champion. Though she never competed professionally in the ring, her love for boxing has remained a constant. Now, she will finally enter the squared circle on a new mission.
“The boxing pedigree is there. I was in and out of the boxing gym growing up because I like to fight and I like to punch. I can just go. I will fight anyone, wherever, whenever.”
A date, opponent, or venue for her professional boxing debut has not yet been announced. However, Eddie Hearn confirmed the goal is to keep McCann active, potentially fighting multiple times a year across international stages.
Global Spotlight Awaits: Hearn Promises Big Nights Ahead
Promoter Eddie Hearn is bullish on McCann’s prospects in boxing, revealing that they’ve already outlined a plan to move her quickly through the ranks.
“She’s a former ABA champion and obviously a massive star within the UFC,” Hearn said. “She’s built her profile globally, and we’re excited to see her fight all over the world. I’ve seen her live, felt the atmosphere around her — it’s special.”
“We’re not just here to make a splash — we’re here to push her toward a world title. And we believe she can do it within eight fights.”
Hearn even jokingly agreed to get her a watch, a traditional boxing prize, if she wins a belt — a nod to old-school fighter bonuses.
A Fighter’s Mentality Remains: McCann Vows to Earn Her Stripe
True to her roots, McCann isn’t expecting to walk into boxing with instant support or entitlement. Despite her fame, she wants to earn the respect of the boxing world from the ground up.
“I’m not expecting fans straight on the bandwagon,” she said. “I have to earn my stripes like anyone else. I will always leave everything I have in there and I promise this man [Hearn] a world title within eight fights.”
She also revealed that she received multiple offers from different promotions, many of which included higher pay, but she chose Matchroom because of their genuine boxing pedigree and long-term plan for her success.
“Meatball Molly”: More Than a Nickname
A proud Scouser, McCann earned her nickname “Meatball” while working in a sandwich shop long before her days in the UFC. She’s brought that underdog work ethic into every fight — whether in the cage or life — and it’s a quality that fans gravitate to.
She also played football for Liverpool FC women’s youth side before pursuing full-time combat sports, adding to her already colorful background as an athlete.
What’s Next for McCann?
Matchroom is expected to announce McCann’s first fight soon, with reports suggesting it could happen on a UK card this autumn. She will compete at super bantamweight or featherweight, depending on the matchmaking.
Meanwhile, her fanbase remains energized. With the popularity she built in MMA and the storytelling ability that makes her both relatable and marketable, McCann’s boxing debut is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated cross-sport transitions in recent years.
