5 fights to book for UFC London this summer
![The UFC returns to London this summer [Image via @btsportufc on Instagram]](https://staticg.sportskeeda.com/editor/2022/04/4c18d-16512072400241-1920.jpg?w=500)
The UFC returned to England for the first time since 2019 earlier this year and put on one of the most memorable Fight Night events in the history of the promotion. With the resounding success of UFC Fight Night: Volkov vs. Aspinall, the world's premier MMA organization is set to return to the English capital this summer.
The O2 Arena in London will host a Fight Night event on July 23rd, and no bouts have been announced for the fight card yet. It's safe to assume that several UK-based fighters will feature on the card, and it should be another incredible night in front of the famously raucous English faithful.
British MMA is at the peak of its powers at the moment, with numerous promising talents on the rise. At the upcoming UFC London event, multiple prospects will have a chance to further bolster their stock and make their way up the rankings in their respective divisions.
On that note, we thought we'd look at five fights to book for the promotion's return to England, including the perfect co-main and main event.
#5. Joanne Wood vs. Molly McCann
Prior to joining the UFC, Molly McCann had four knockout victories on her record. However, on MMA's biggest stage, the Liverpudlian has struggled to put away her opponents and has largely relied on her volume striking to win fights.
As such, all of her victories inside the famed octagon before March 2022 came via unanimous decision. At UFC London earlier this year, she viciously knocked out Luana Carolina to pick up her first finish in the UFC.
McCann has emerged as a fan-favorite in recent times, with her all-action style of fighting, lovable nature and wholesome friendship with fellow Liverpool native Paddy Pimblett resonating with fans.
In the aftermath of her sensational knockout win over Carolina, 'Meatball' made no secret of her desire to fight a ranked opponent next. The ideal next opponent for her would be Joanne Wood.
Wood was once seen as a threat to flyweight queen Valentina Shevchenko's throne. Unfortunately for the Scottish fighter, she has lost five of her last seven bouts and has slipped to the No.10 spot in the 125-pound rankings as a result. She has lost her last three fights on the bounce and will be desperate to return to winning ways later this year.
Considering her losing streak, Joanne Wood will likely be handed a lower-ranked opponent in her next outing. Additionally, Wood hasn't competed in the UK in close to five years. With Molly McCann on the come-up, this seems to be the perfect fight to make in the women's flyweight division.
This Scotland vs. England matchup has all the makings of a great fight as well, considering both fighters' striking prowess. McCann boasts excellent boxing acumen, while Wood has shown to have high-level Muay Thai skills.
It's a fascinating clash of styles and we'll keep our fingers crossed hoping the matchmakers put this one together.