MMA star breaks down in tears after winning world title… despite sport being ILLEGAL in her country
MMA star Cecilie Bolander broke down in tears after winning her title fight – despite the sport being ILLEGAL in her country.
Bolander is from Norway, where professional MMA is BANNED
Since 1981, all sports involving knockouts as a method of victory were outlawed – but it was lifted for boxing in 2014.
MMA though is still not recognised – meaning Norwegian fighters are forced to travel abroad to compete.
Bolander is one of them but she will now return home as a champion after beating Lucie Pudilova for the bantamweight Oktagon title.
The 28-year-old broke down in tears as she emotionally called for the sport to be legalised in her homeland.
She screamed: “Please legalise the sport in Norway!”
Bolander only began fighting in 2021 and made her pro debut a year later.
She is now 4-1 after defeating Pudilova in their rematch – having lost to her in September.
Bolander ran around the cage after her split-decision win was announced.
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And failing to fight back tears, she said: “This is hard! I didn’t plan on five rounds, I’m sorry.
“I work for five rounds but you always want the fast finish. I hope we gave you entertainment, I love that part of the sport.
“What I was going to say in the beginning was I really, really appreciate Oktagon for taking me in like you have.
“For the fans that’s been supporting me from the last fight, I’m forever grateful.
“I love this sport with all my heart – it’s a really f***ing hard sport but it makes it was easier when we have fans like you guys. I’m very emotional guys, you’ll get used to it!
“Pudilova, thank you for the amazing fight, to my team I love you to the bottom of my heart for all you’ve been through with me.
“To my friends and family and team-mates at Norwegian Top Team, you guys are my brothers and I love you for that, for always having my back.”