In a revealing conversation on the “Here’s Hoping with Jayda G” podcast, UFC flyweight Molly McCann shared a painful experience from her July bout, detailing how she sustained multiple injuries within moments of the opening exchange.
“The first kick of the fight I broke my leg, and then seconds later I get an illegal blow to the downstairs which needed stitches,” McCann explained. “It took me off the floor. I was thinking, ‘Oh, I don’t even know if I can carry on.'”
The Liverpool native’s candid discussion about requiring sutures following the illegal strike adds to a growing conversation about groin injuries in MMA. Her account follows recent remarks from fellow UFC athlete Mackenzie Dern, who compared similar experiences to childbirth, stating “Definitely fighting, it hurts way more.”
McCann described how she attempted to continue despite the severe discomfort. “My body was starting to shut down,” she recalled. “That was the most pain I’ve had to go through.”
The aftermath proved equally challenging for McCann, who had to maintain composure despite her injuries. “I’ve had to walk into the changing room… give [my team] a hug and tell them I’m going to be okay when my body’s in bits,” she said.
Now 34, McCann reflected on her journey in professional competition, noting she’s accumulated 14 UFC appearances since joining the promotion. “I got into the UFC five years ago, so I’m six years in. Predominantly most of my career has been competing at the highest level,” she shared.
The incident highlights the physical challenges athletes face in professional sports, particularly in moments that require immediate medical attention while maintaining their competitive responsibilities.
