Cris Cyborg Continues Fighting Career, Cites State of Women's MMA

Cris ‘Cyborg’ Justino, a trailblazer in women's MMA, will continue her fighting career. What was presented as her farewell match at PFL Tampa earlier this year saw Justino defeat Ketlen Vieira by unanimous decision, bringing her professional record to 30-2-1.

Following that bout, Justino had indicated a leaning towards retirement. She even offered to step in for UFC 332 with a rematch against Amanda Nunes before that card was set.

Despite these signals and an invitation from Conor McGregor for a Bare Knuckle FC fight, Justino is not ready to step away from competition.

Cris ‘Cyborg’ Justino Postpones Retirement, Cites Unacceptable Conditions in Women's MMA

Justino announced her decision to delay retirement plans in a recent social media post.

“I’m not ready to retire…Not yet,” Justino stated.

“If I walked away today, there would be no major MMA promotion with a women’s 145 lb division. That’s unacceptable…I’ve always wanted my legacy to be about the opportunities I helped create for other women, just as much as the titles and records I earned myself…

“Look at women’s boxing: multiple weight classes, real choices, real careers. In MMA, women are still limited,” Justino continued. “I have always fought for women to have the same platform as men…the fight continues.”

Justino could play a significant role in Most Valuable Promotions’ (MVP) next MMA event in 2027. Following MVP's merger with the PFL, the combined promotion is expected to host several major events next year.

A potential matchup for Justino could be against longtime rival Ronda Rousey in an MMA fight. Rousey competed in the inaugural MVP MMA event earlier this year, defeating Gina Carano.