Bellator featherweight contestant Leah McCourt expressed frustration over the delay in her title shot against champion Cris Cyborg. Even though McCourt is considered the No. 1 contender, she feels ignored since Bellator was acquired by the PFL. Cyborg was originally scheduled to face Kayla Harrison, but an opponent is currently unknown and McCourt is eager for the opportunity. As tensions mount over the postponement of the title fight, Cyborg accepts McCourt’s challenge and the possibility of a historic clash in Belfast.
McCourt’s setbacks and No. 1 candidate status
Leah McCourt, who defeated Sarah McMann at Bellator 300, is expected to face Cris Cyborg for the featherweight title. However, with PFL’s acquisition of Bellator and Cyborg’s pursuit of a match against Kayla Harrison halted, McCourt found himself in a state of uncertainty. Even though she is considered the number one contender, McCourt feels shunned and frustrated, especially since the promotion seems to favor matches against fighters from other organizations.
Cyborg’s reaction to McCourt’s challenge
Cris Cyborg acknowledged McCourt as a legitimate No. 1 contender and responded to the Irish fighter’s complaints. In an interview with LynchOnSports, Cyborg said, “You know the reality, I like to fight the contender, the No. 1. Leah was the next person I would fight for the title at Bellator.” Ta. She believes she deserves her fight and I’m going to fight her too.” Cyborg credits McCourt for her preparation and training to face her in what could be her historic matchup. He expressed his desire to do so.
Amid uncertainty surrounding potential featherweight and cyborg opponents, Leah McCourt challenged the champion to a fight in Belfast. In response, Cyborg accepted her challenge on social media, expressing her determination to give Belfast “the biggest fight in European women’s MMA history”. The acknowledgment by Cyborg adds intrigue to the possibility of the two fighters eventually meeting in the cage.
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