Joanna Jedrzejczyk on a UFC epic – and getting James Arthur’s backing

Already considered an MMA great, Jedrzejczyk aimed to regain the strawweight title on 7 March from Weili, who was making her first defence after becoming China’s first UFC champion.

Weili’s right eye closed up early, then Jedrzejczyk’s forehead started swelling in the third round. The swollen section got so big that her physio was afraid it would burst. “It could’ve scarred half my face,” said Jedrzejczyk.

“It was so painful. For a split-second, I questioned if I should stop, but I was still going forward.”

The pair traded blows for five rounds. In 25 minutes they exchanged 351 significant strikes – the third-most in UFC history. Jedrzejczyk threw more, 186 in fact – the most ever in a UFC defeat – as Weili clinched a split decision.

Despite the swelling, the Pole didn’t suffer any permanent damage – but for a “broken heart and a scar on my soul”.

Within two days, the swelling had gone. At one point, the bruising almost covered her entire face – but within three weeks that had cleared too.

“I knew I’d heal,” Jedrzejczyk said. “I was more mad at myself because I wanted to have a few nice days in Vegas with my friends and family! But this is the price we pay. I’ve been doing this for 17 years so I know the game.”