UFC 275: Sports world reacts to Zhang Weili’s epic knockout and Joanna Jedrzejczyk’s retirement

UFC 275 had a little bit of everything, but a rematch of arguably the greatest women’s fight in UFC history and a new light heavyweight champion being crowned highlighted Saturday’s action in Singapore.

The main event saw 42-year-old Glover Teixeira make the first defense of his UFC light heavyweight championship against Jiří Procházka.

Teixeira was the second-oldest champion in UFC history, while 29-year-old Procházka looked to win the belt in his third UFC fight.

The two exchanged blows in a fight that appeared evenly matched going into the final round.

Procházka showed his power with 4:32 in the fifth round, and emerged as the victor by a submission via rear naked choke. It was the second-latest finish ever in a UFC title fight and was Teixeira’s first loss by submission in his 41-fight MMA career.

“Like I said, before the fight, I’m ready to end it first or fifth round. It doesn’t matter,” Procházka said. “And it doesn’t matter which technique.”

The thrilling fight made waves on social media as stars offered their thoughts on the championship bout.

Earlier in the evening, Zhang Weili and Joanna Jedrzejczyk clashed in the Octagon one last time.

Their March 2020 meeting for the women’s strawweight championship set the bar extremely high for their fight in Singapore on Saturday.

Zhang came out on top the first time, winning via decision after the two combined for a UFC women’s record 351 significant strikes.

Despite the fight ending the second round, it still lived up to its lofty expectations. Zhang landed the 10th spinning back fist knockout in UFC history and the first ever by a woman to secure the victory.

“I’m very, very happy for this fight,” Zhang said after the fight. “I told myself I would use all my assets to beat my opponent. I’m very, very calm and relaxed for this fight. I really want to say to Joanna, she is a fighter, she is a warrior.”

Following the rematch, superstars across the sporting landscape tipped their cap to both fighters for their exploits in the octagon.

Jedrzejczyk announced her retirement following the first non-title loss of her career.

“I’m retired guys,” Jedrzejczyk said. “I love you so much. UFC, Dana [White], I’m so sorry I let you down. It’s been 20 years. I’m turning 35 this year. I want to be a mom. I want to be a businesswoman. I appreciate you all, I love you guys.”

Support poured in on social media with stars praising Jedrzejczyk for her illustrious career.

Zhang is now expected to face Carla Esparza next for the women’s strawweight championship.

“Carla Esparza, I heard there’s an event in Abu Dhabi,” Zhang said. “I want to invite you to find me in Abu Dhabi.”