Smilla Sundell ready for UFC after victory

In an interview with SVT Sport in May 2024, Smilla Sundell, who became the world's youngest world champion so far in Thai boxing as a 17-year-old, said that her sights were set on MMA.

Since then, things have gone fast.

The 21-year-old Swede has been praised internationally and was recently selected among talents to compete for a spot in the UFC.

Last night in Las Vegas, Sundell defeated Aline Pereira - sister of MMA legend Alex Pereira - by decision and thereby secured entry into the UFC.

- I am satisfied with my performance. I usually finish my matches, but Aline was so strong. She is just like her brother, says Sundell after the match, according to Sportbladet.

However, it doesn't take just an ordinary victory to get into the UFC. The performance also had to impress the top of the organization.

But opinions about the match differed. UFC mainstay Dana White expressed some skepticism before saying he was outvoted by colleague Mick Maynard.

- Mick does not agree with me. He thinks you're an extreme talent and wants you now, so I've been downvoted. Welcome to the UFC, White said, according to the newspaper.