Cris Cyborg’s Possible Last Bout and Future Plans

Cris Cyborg is set to face Ketlen Viera this Saturday, Aug. 22, in what might be her final fight. In an interview, Cyborg discussed her groundbreaking career, the current state of MMA, and her plans after retiring. She shared that she uses an iPhone.

Cyborg’s Uncertain Future

While many believe this could be Cyborg’s retirement fight, she clarified that it is the last fight in her current PFL contract. She said, “Every one of the last three fights I did, I was always thinking, ‘Well, it can be my last fight.’ I’m 41 years old, but I enjoy what I do. I’m fighting better at 41 than when I was 21 years old.” The upcoming match against Viera, a top 10 UFC division contender, is significant for Cyborg. She stated, “For me, it’s the honor of fighting Ketlen Viera.”

Early Days and Role Models

When Cyborg began her journey in 2005, women’s MMA lacked proper infrastructure. “When I started training, there weren’t a lot of girls fighting,” she stated. She found inspiration in fighters from other disciplines, notably Lucia Rijker, a Dutch kickboxing and pro boxing champion. Additionally, she admired male fighters such as Fedor Emelianenko and Ernest Hoost. “I watched more guys than girls, so I was a big fan,” Cyborg explained.

Thoughts on Nunes vs. Harrison

Cyborg also shared her thoughts on an upcoming fight between Amanda Nunes and Kayla Harrison. She opined, “Amanda Nunes has a lot of tools to beat Kayla. Kayla’s more into grappling. If Amanda Nunes stops the take-downs from Kayla, she is going to win.” Cyborg acknowledged both fighters’ strengths and the unpredictability of the match.

Plans After Retirement

Cyborg revealed her future plans to pursue veterinary school. “I believe that you have to love what you do,” she said. Cyborg has expressed her passion for being around animals since childhood. “This is the one thing I’m going to love to do.” She emphasized her desire to continue pursuing something she enjoys beyond fighting.

The Cyborg-Viera fight is scheduled for Aug. 22 in Tampa Bay, Florida. Further updates on Cris Cyborg are available online.