Leah McCourt believes there’s a lot on the line in her next fight.
The Bellator women’s featherweight contender thinks she can get a shot at champion Cris Cyborg if victorious in her return. McCourt (7-2 MMA, 6-1 BMMA) takes on former UFC title challenger Cat Zingano in the co-main event of Bellator 293.
The event takes place Friday at Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, Calif. The main card airs on Showtime following prelims on MMA Junkie.
McCourt sees a big career opportunity ahead.
“Whoever wins is going to get a title shot, so it has massive implications,” McCourt told MMA Junkie and other reporters during Wednesday’s media day. “There’s a massive opportunity that can come from that. I think it makes it more intriguing. I always give 110 percent in fight camp, and I never take these opportunities for granted. I give everything I can, and it’s just time to go perform.”
This is arguably McCourt’s biggest career moment thus far. Although it’s a high-stakes situation, McCourt is keeping cool and doesn’t feel threatened by the moment.
“I just feel like every fight that I’ve had, there’s a lot on the line and opportunities after, so I can keep winning and keep getting these big fights,” McCourt said. “I’m used to it now. I’ve always had these kinds of big events and platforms to fight on. It’s been quite good to have that experience. I think fighting someone like Cat, it’s good we’ve been through this a lot of times – all the media and pressure. I’m used to this fight week.”
For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for Bellator 293.