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UFC newcomer Wang Cong has quickly made a name for herself with a performance that has everyone talking. Cong, who entered with an undefeated record, delivered a knockout debut that left fans and UFC brass equally impressed. Facing against Victoria Leonardo in the night’s opening women’s flyweight bout, Cong wasted no time showing her prowess. Just 62 seconds into the fight, she landed a crushing punch that ended the match with a walk-off knockout, sending a strong message to the rest of the division.
China’s Cong crushed Leonardo with a devastating punch, summing up a debut that left both the audience and Cong’s opponent stunned. But it wasn’t just her striking that caught everyone’s attention. Post-fight, Cong grabbed the microphone and clarified that she felt she deserved more than just the opening slot on the fight card.
“I have no business being the first fight of the night,” she declared, advocating for a spot on the main card next time.
Cong’s flamboyant personality and showmanship extended beyond her in-ring performance. Known by her moniker “The Joker,” she turned heads during the weigh-ins by sporting Joker-themed face paint. Her confidence was evident as she faced off with Leonardo, telling her,
“I will win. I’m crazy,” while mimicking shooting her opponent three times before walking off.
This theatrical approach has resonated with fans, helping Cong build a strong following even before stepping into the octagon.
Adding to her growing legend, Cong already has a notable win outside of the UFC, having defeated former UFC flyweight champion Valentina “Bullet” Shevchenko in a kickboxing match. This accomplishment only adds to the aura surrounding Cong, making her an exciting fighter to watch in the increasingly competitive women’s flyweight division.
Despite her stunning debut, Cong was initially overlooked when it came time to award the performance bonuses. Feeling snubbed, she took to Instagram to voice her disappointment, writing,
“Wake up and find out there is no POTN. Next, fight you will see a more spectacular finish @ufc. Don’t play with Joker again!” It seems her bold words and undeniable talent paid off.
UFC CEO Dana White, who wasn’t present at the event, soon caught wind of her performance and took action. Responding to Cong on Instagram, White said,
“I was out of town and watched the fight @mystiqueboston on TV. You looked AMAZING. I’m adding another PON bonus for u. Congrats get 50k.”
It was a gesture that not only acknowledged Cong’s performance but also underscored White’s commitment to rewarding fighters who bring excitement to the sport.
“I love you, Dana,” Cong replied, clearly thrilled, adding heart-eyed emojis to convey her excitement. With one fight and one bonus under her belt, Wang Cong has established herself as a fighter to keep an eye on in the UFC. Her knockout power, confidence, and charisma suggest that “The Joker” is here to stay, ready to shake up the women’s flyweight division.
Wang Cong’s memorable debut not only set the stage for her future in the UFC but also served as a reminder of how quickly a new fighter can captivate the hearts of fans and UFC officials alike. As her career unfolds, the MMA community will undoubtedly be watching to see what spectacular feats Cong accomplishes next.
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