Cris Cyborg inks new UFC contract ahead of first title defense

Cris Cyborg may finally be on her way to UFC stardom, as the current women’s featherweight champion inked a new contract this week that will keep her with the promotion for “at least the next 15 months.”

Cyborg, who broke the news on her own web site, will also become the most highest paid female fighter currently on the UFC roster.

“I am excited to be committed to the UFC,” Cyborg said in a statement. “Dana White has proven himself as the best promoter in the sport, and with the recent addition of Mick Maynard as women’s matchmaker, I felt it was time to come to an agreement where we can both work together and be committed in both building the UFC and the Cris Cyborg brands. … I am excited to start this new chapter in my career as a real partner with the UFC and the fights we will promote together.”

The contract news comes in the same week as Cyborg signing on to fight former UFC women’s bantamweight champion Holly Holm at UFC 219 on Dec. 30 from Las Vegas. It will be the Brazilian’s first UFC title defense after winning the 145-pound crown with a third-round TKO win over Invicta FC standout Tonya Evinger back at UFC 214.

Despite a few setbacks, Cyborg is finally getting her wish to sit atop a women’s featherweight division under UFC rule. Extending her stay will only prolong her ability to cement herself as the best female fighter in mixed martial arts (MMA) history.