Mariya Agapova’s journey in the UFC has been a rollercoaster ride marked by both triumphs and struggles. Despite initially falling short in her Dana White’s Contender Series matchup against Tracy Cortez in 2019, Agapova’s determination earned her a spot in the UFC roster. She made her debut in spectacular fashion, securing a first-round submission victory over Hannah Cifers at UFC on ESPN 10 in 2020, showcasing her potential to make waves in the flyweight division.
However, Agapova’s momentum was short-lived as she faced a setback in her next bout, suffering a second-round TKO defeat against Shana Dobson. Undeterred, she bounced back with an impressive performance, submitting Sabina Mazo with a rear-naked choke in the third round at UFC Fight Night 194, demonstrating her resilience and skill inside the octagon.
Despite her early successes, Agapova has encountered difficulties in maintaining consistency, facing consecutive losses in her subsequent fights.
Both her matchups against Maryna Moroz and Gillian Robertson ended in submission losses, leaving Agapova grappling with disappointment and frustration as she navigates the challenges of competing at the highest level of mixed martial arts.
Off the canvas, Agapova’s recent struggles extend beyond the octagon, as she grapples with financial instability and the looming threat of homelessness. Despite her upcoming fight against Luana Santos on July 13 providing a glimmer of hope, Agapova’s plight underscores the harsh realities faced by fighters in a sport where financial security is not guaranteed.
As Agapova continues to fight both inside and outside the cage, her resilience and determination serve as a testament to her character. With the support of her fans and the opportunity to compete, Agapova remains focused on overcoming adversity and pursuing her dreams in the unforgiving world of professional mixed martial arts.
