Between Rounds: Molly “Meatball” McCann

by Damon Smith · March 18, 2019

Molly McCann-Pearson was born in Liverpool, England, a feisty lass who liked to scrap. Even as an adult she stands a mere 5’4″ and weighs 126 pounds. Her heart has always been bigger than she was and so were her dreams. Fighting out of Bournemouth, England this lovable lass kicker is fighting for her dreams and for her father.

Molly is a huge fan favorite but she has had a wild ride to get the UFC. Molly had to relocate cities, she lost her father, doors has been slammed in her face. As a young girl she wasn’t even allowed into a gym being asked to leave at Saint Teresa’s ABC in Norris Green. Molly showed her heart even then as she kept showing up and asking to be let in.

During a previous interview Molly stated “I had to stand there and ask if I could come in. One day they let me in to spar, I sparred with the lads and smashed them to bits. They let me in after that. But only me”.

Boxing became a big part of Molly’s life first then she made the switch to MMA after Next Gen head coach Paul Rimmer advised her to make a change. Rimmer is also the one who coined the nickname ‘Meatball’ No it wasn’t something harsh or a shot at Molly it was after she rushed to the gym directly after work at Subway. Yes everybody loves a meatball sub and everybody loves “Meatball” McCann.

Molly is a driven young Woman in and out of the ring. Before he passed away McCann promised he father she would win a world title. “I know that is a cliché, promising somebody a title on their deathbed, but that’s what I did. I promised I’d look after my mum” McCann was quoted

Now sitting at 8-2 as a professional Meatball” is coming off a dramatic fight at UFC London. Defeating Priscila Cachoeira via unanimous decision. Even after suffering a broken orbital bone during the fight. Molly refused to quit. Fighting not only her opponent but the injury and the pain that came with it.I made reference to McCann’s heart earlier in this article and this explains what I was expressing. Amazing win for “Meatball” and an amazing win for fight fans but an even more amazing win for the UFC for bringing Molly in.

Already a fan of McCann all she did was entrench that decision with me. I can’t wait for her next fight and wish her all the best in a speedy and full recovery and imminent return to the cage. Give in fight fans we all know you secretly love a :Meatball”