Melissa “Scare” Croden’s journey in mixed martial arts has led her to her highly anticipated UFC debut in Vancouver. On Saturday, the 34-year-old bantamweight will compete against Brazil’s Tainara “Thai Panther” Lisboa at Rogers Arena. This fight marks a significant milestone for Croden, who hails from Calgary.
The Road to UFC Debut
In 2015, Croden took a bold step away from her job as a paramedic to pursue mixed martial arts. She spent three months training in Thailand, where she fell in love with the sport. “I wanted to test myself,” she said. The rigorous training at Tiger Muay Thai under former UFC fighter Roger Huerta propelled her into a serious commitment to MMA.
After returning to Alberta, Croden balanced her work and training. She reduced her paramedic hours, dedicating herself to her newfound passion. Her amateur debut came in September 2016 when she defeated Liz Jackson, marking the start of her competitive career.
Professional Career Highlights
- Record: 6 wins, 2 losses
- Notable Wins: Recent victories over Katharina “The German Gypsy” Lehner and Ashley Deen
- Losses: Decision loss to Jacqueline “The Nightmare” Cavalcanti for the LFA bantamweight title in April 2023
Croden has showcased her finishing ability, with five of her six victories coming by knockout or submission. She has never been finished in her professional fights, with both losses being close decisions.
Training and Preparation
For her UFC debut, Croden prepared intensively, including training stints in Las Vegas. She has trained at multiple high-level facilities, including Xtreme Couture and the UFC Performance Institute. Her primary training partner, Hailey “All Hail” Cowan, will be in her corner during the fight.
Croden acknowledges the challenges ahead, particularly facing Lisboa, a two-time Muay Thai world champion. “I expect a striking-heavy match,” she said. Croden will leverage her height and reach advantage, standing at 5-foot-10, to navigate the bout effectively.
Anticipation and Community Support
The upcoming fight has garnered significant attention, with Croden expecting a supportive crowd at the arena. “There’s tons of people coming out,” she remarked, emphasizing the excitement surrounding her debut.
Croden’s nickname, “Scare,” derives from her early struggles with movement during training. “I moved like a scarecrow,” she recalled, but has since refined her skills. Her transformation in the sport exemplifies her dedication and resilience.
As Melissa Croden prepares to step into the octagon, her journey from a paramedic to a professional fighter inspires many. Her debut in Vancouver is not just a personal achievement; it is a testament to her hard work and passion for mixed martial arts.
