An important moment is approaching for Tecia Pennington as she contemplates her future in the strawweight division. She has faced each of the six women who have held the strawweight title, demonstrating exceptional resilience and skill in the Octagon.
Tecia Pennington’s Unique Achievements
Notably, Pennington has competed against the following former champions:
- Carla Esparza
- Zhang Weili
- Rose Namajunas
- Jessica Andrade
- Joanna Jedrzejczyk
- Marina Rodriguez
While she achieved victory against Esparza during UFC 307, her other matches showcased her determination. Pennington consistently pushed her opponents for the full duration, underscoring her status as a top contender within the division.
Looking to the Future
Currently, Pennington faces a crucial decision point in her career. After a competitive match against the current champion, Mackenzie Dern, at UFC 273, she is contemplating her next steps. She expressed her desire to fight more frequently, as long breaks between fights can be challenging at her age of 36.
“I wish I fought more often,” Pennington stated. She mentioned, “Taking six to eight months off is a long time, and I want to embrace my next chapter and grow my family.”
Future Plans and Aspirations
Should she win her upcoming fight, Pennington hopes to secure another match within two months. She emphasized the importance of staying active in the sport, yet she is also prepared to shift her focus if necessary.
“I would still take a fight if it didn’t happen, but ideally, I’d like to win and have a fight within eight weeks, provided I don’t have any injuries,” she explained. The pressure of potentially waiting for another six to eight months is significant for her.
As her career progresses, Pennington’s choices will play a key role in defining her legacy in the strawweight division. Her determination and skill make her a fighter to watch closely in the coming months.
