Raquel Pennington’s much anticipated rematch with Holly Holm was a frustrating one.
In their first fight in 2015, Pennington narrowly lost a split decision to Holm that she thought she won. Ever since then, she wanted to run it back.
After getting her wish almost five years later, Pennington lost a unanimous decision to Holm on Saturday in the co-main event of UFC 246 in a rather lackluster affair.
Holm adopted a clinch-filled game plan that had her stacking Pennington against the cage for the majority of the fight, which slowed down the pace. Unable to engage in a brawl, Pennington (10-8 MMA, 7-5 UFC) had her offense stifled, and her rematch with Holm (13-5 MMA, 6-5 UFC) did not live up to expectations.
Pennington released a brief statement on Instagram, sharing her thoughts on the fight.
Well it was not the fight I wanted after waiting 5 years. I wanted to fight not be hugged the whole time but that’s the fight game for you. Regardless I’m always thankful for my team, coaches, fiancée, family, friends, and true fans. #ontothenextone #TeamRocky #headheldhigh
Holm did admit that she could have been more exciting, but was ultimately glad that she got the job done.
Pennington now lost three of her last four fights, with her lone win coming over surging 135-pound contender Irene Aldana in July.
UFC 246 took place Saturday at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The main card aired on pay-per-view following prelims on ESPN and early prelims on UFC Fight Pass/ESPN+.
Raquel Pennington 'wanted to fight not be hugged the whole time' by Holly Holm
