Former undisputed strawweight champion Joanna Jedrzejczyk has officially retired from active mixed martial arts competition
Former undisputed strawweight champion Joanna Jedrzejczyk has officially retired from active mixed martial arts competition after revealing a recurring shoulder injury prevented her return to the Octagon. The Polish striking sensation is known for her dominant reign as the second strawweight champion in UFC history, recently informed the promotion of her decision.
Jedrzejczyk’s hiatus from competition began after her stunning second-round knockout loss to Zhang Weili at UFC 275 in June of the previous year. The defeat marked a turning point for the fighter as she initially announced her retirement from active competition following the bout. However, earlier this summer, she expressed her intention to make a return to the sport only to be thwarted by an injury suffered during training.
Recalling her efforts to stage a comeback, Jedrzejczyk stated, “I wanted to give myself one more chance. But then my (shoulder injury) happened again, it came back with double the power it used to hurt before.” This setback led to a mix of emotions for the fighter ranging from sadness to acceptance. She found solace in the realization that she had reached a point where she was no longer chasing the sport and could embrace a sense of calmness.
The journey of Joanna Jedrzejczyk in the MMA world is marked by her remarkable achievements and contributions to the sport. Striking gold in 2015 with a knockout victory over Carla Esparza. She went on to establish her dominance by defeating a string of formidable opponents. Jessica Penne, Valerie Letourneau, Claudia Gadelha, Karolina Kowalkiewicz, and Jessica Andrade all fell victim to her exceptional skillset and fierce determination.
Jedrzejczyk’s legacy extends beyond her victories inside the Octagon. Her reign as strawweight champion showcased her technical prowess, striking precision, and unwavering work ethic. Her fights were often characterized by her relentless pressure, disciplined game plan, and fighting spirit that captured the hearts of fans worldwide.
While her retirement marks the end of her competitive journey in MMA. It opens a new chapter for Jedrzejczyk. The decision to step away from active competition was not made lightly but it reflects her commitment to her well-being and long-term health. With the news of her official retirement now communicated to the UFC. She faces a surgical procedure to address her recurring shoulder injury.
Joanna Jedrzejczyk’s impact on the sport goes beyond her accolades. Her dedication to the craft, her resilience in the face of challenges, and her ability to inspire others through her journey have left an indelible mark on the MMA community.
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