UFC 278: Lucie Pudilova scores a second-round finish against Yanan Wu in UFC return.
Lucie Pudilova showed massive improvements in UFC return at UFC 278. Pudilova took on Yanan Wu, who lost her last three fights. Pudilova took Wu to the ground early in the first round but failed to take advantage of her dominant position.
Pudilova flipped the switch in the second round. She landed another takedown and started to break Wu down with elbows and punches. Pudilova continued to attack relentlessly and won the fight in the second round. This was the first UFC win for Pudilova since 2018.
Pudilova went 2-5 in the UFC before being cut in 2020. She then went 5-1 in OKTAGON after parting ways with the UFC. At 28 years old, Pudilova scratched and clawed her way back to the UFC, ultimately making the most of her opportunity on the UFC 278 pay-per-view.
VICIOUS ground and pound led to the Pudilova win đź‘Š
— ESPN MMA (@espnmma) August 21, 2022
Stream #UFC278 NOW ▶️ https://t.co/pxRev9nc4A pic.twitter.com/O2uiujQi4c
Lucie Pudilova evolved since her first UFC stint
Pudilova’s ability to dominate in the grappling department shows massive improvements since the last time she was in the UFC. Pudilova also showed improvements with her boxing which could lead to future success in the women’s bantamweight division.
The bantamweight division is always looking for new contenders. With minimal damage taken, Pudilova may be able to ride this momentum and return before the end of the year. Pudilova learned plenty of lessons throughout her career, and the experience could pay dividends.
Pudilova’s win could be more important mentally than physically. Her last UFC run ended with four straight losses, which could have created doubts. Luckily, Pudilova has prevailed through adversity and found herself back in the win column after UFC 278.