Cris Cyborg Takes on Boxing: A New Challenge for the MMA Star

Cris Cyborg, the renowned MMA star, steps into the boxing ring for a thrilling bout against Kelsey Wickstrum. Read more about Cyborg’s transition to boxing and her upcoming fight at WFC 163.

Cris Cyborg, a dominant force in mixed martial arts (MMA), is set to take on a new challenge in the boxing ring. With an impressive record of 27-2 and multiple world titles in UFC, Bellator, Strikeforce, and Invicta, Cyborg’s transition to boxing has generated excitement among fans. She will face Kelsey Wickstrum, an undefeated left-handed fighter with a record of 2-0. The fight will be part of WFC 163 at Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula. Cyborg’s previous boxing matches have showcased her skills, and she plans to continue competing until she turns 40. This fight may be the last chance for her fans to see her in action in California.

Cris Cyborg, known for her dominance in mixed martial arts (MMA), is now venturing into the boxing ring. The 38-year old fighter, with an impressive record of 27-2 and multiple world titles in UFC, Bellator, Strikeforce, and Invicta, is set to face Kelsey Wickstrum in a six-round 154-pound bout. This highly anticipated fight will take place at WFC 163 on Friday night at Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula.

Cyborg, who resides and trains in San Diego, has showcased her skills in various combat sports, including grappling, kickboxing, and Muay Thai. With a strong social media following, she has garnered a significant fan base. Her transition to boxing has generated excitement among both MMA and boxing enthusiasts.

The co-main event of WFC 163 will feature a men’s bout between San Diego’s Jesus Resendiz and Rosekie Cristobal. The event will be live-streamed on spectationsports.com. The fight card includes a total of 17 amateur and professional bouts, with several fighters from the San Diego area.

Cyborg has already proven her boxing prowess with a 2-0 record. In her most recent MMA fight, she delivered a remarkable first-round TKO victory over Cat Zingano at Bellator 300. Her last boxing match took place on December 11, 2022, on the undercard of the Terence Crawford/David Avanesyan fight, where she secured a unanimous decision win against Gabrielle Holloway.

Her opponent, Kelsey Wickstrum, is a 36-year old left-handed fighter from Redding. Wickstrum holds an undefeated record of 2-0, with one knockout. She currently ranks as the No. 4 contender in the welterweight division. The welterweight title is held by Mikaela Mayer, who is set to fight Natasha Jones in Liverpool, England.

Cyborg expressed her readiness for the fight, stating that her previous encounters with southpaw fighters have prepared her well. She also mentioned ongoing discussions about a potential MMA fight against Kayla Harrison in the near future. Despite her focus on boxing, Cyborg emphasized that her passion lies in fighting, and her experiences in boxing only enhance her skills in MMA.

As Cyborg approaches the age of 40, she plans to continue competing. This fight may be the last opportunity for her fans to witness her in action in the state of California.