Holly Holm

Holly Holm: The Legendary UFC Bantamweight Fighter and Former Boxing Champion

Holly "The Preacher's Daughter" Holm, born October 17, 1981 in Albuquerque, New Mexico, is one of the most successful and versatile fighters in the history of women's sports. Holm has won titles in both boxing and mixed martial arts, and her career has been marked by impressive performances in the martial arts. Most iconic is her victory over Ronda Rousey to capture the UFC women's bantamweight title and pull off one of the biggest upsets in MMA history.

Early Life and Career

Holly Holm began her athletic career as a talented athlete, with a strong background in both gymnastics and football. However, her passion for combat sports began when she came into contact with kickboxing, and she soon switched to professional boxing. Holm made a name for herself as an elite boxer, winning multiple world titles in three weight classes. She was considered one of the best female boxers of all time, with an impressive record and numerous championship belts.

Switch to MMA

In 2011, after a legendary boxing career, Holly Holm made the switch to MMA. Training under Greg Jackson and Mike Winkeljohn in Albuquerque, she developed a strong all-around fighting style. Holm combined her elite striking, honed during her boxing and kickboxing career, with solid defense and takedown defense, quickly establishing her as a dangerous fighter in the MMA world.

Holm made her MMA debut with impressive wins, mostly by knockout, and built an undefeated record. In 2014, she was signed by the UFC and quickly made a name for herself in the organization.

UFC Career and Iconic Victory

Holly Holm made her UFC debut in February 2015 and continued to display her dominant striking. The highlight of her MMA career came in November 2015 at UFC 193, where she faced undefeated champion Ronda Rousey. Rousey was a dominant force in female MMA, and many considered her unbeatable.

However, Holm surprised the world by defeating Rousey via knockout in the second round, thanks to a perfectly placed headkick that sent her to the ground. The victory made Holm the UFC women's bantamweight titleholder and pulled off one of the biggest upsets in MMA history.

Post-Championship and Further Career

Although Holm lost her title in her first title defense against Miesha Tate in 2016, she remained a top competitor in the UFC's bantamweight and featherweight divisions, fighting some of the biggest names in the sport, including Cris Cyborg, Germaine de Randamie, and Amanda Nunes.

Holm's career has been defined by her ability to remain competitive at the highest level, even after her title run. She remains an elite fighter known for her exceptional cardio, technical striking, and fighting spirit. Although she suffered some losses later in her career, her fighting style is still effective, and she remains dangerous to any opponent.

Style and Technique

Holly Holm is best known for her excellent striking, which is characterized by her exceptional footwork, distance control and powerful combinations. Her experience as a boxing champion gives her a great advantage in the standing fight, where she can effectively neutralize her opponents. Holm is adept at using kicks, especially her famous headkick, with which she can end fights.

In addition to her striking, Holm has also worked on her takedown defense and her ground game, though her strengths have always been in the standing position. Her ability to maintain distance and control fights makes her difficult to hit and tough to beat.

Future Ambitions

Despite her long career, Holly Holm remains competitive and determined to climb back to the top of the UFC bantamweight division. Her goal is to challenge for the title again and cement her place as one of the greatest female fighters in the sport.

Conclusion

Holly Holm is a legendary fighter in both boxing and MMA who has had a lasting impact on the sporting world. Her victory over Ronda Rousey remains one of the most iconic moments in UFC history, and her career has become a symbol of dedication, skill and perseverance. Holm remains a respected force in the UFC and is a name that will forever be associated with combat sports greatness.