United States Taekwondo champion Valerie Loureda made a memorable professional MMA debut earlier tonight (Sat., Feb. 16, 2019) at Bellator 216 live on DAZN from inside Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut, when she finished flyweight opponent Colby Fletcher via first-round TKO (punches).
The 20-year-old blue chip prospect looked good from the opening bell, as Loureda mixed up her punches and kicks in style. Fletcher did score in return with some elbows up close, but Loureda ultimately led the dance. After a combination ending with a body kick knocked Fletcher to the canvas, Loureda followed up with hammer fists galore until the referee stepped in for the stoppage.
Check out the knockout finish above courtesy of Bellator.
With this performance, Loureda enters the professional circuit in dynamite fashion. Despite this being her first time under the bright lights, Loureda still looked the part of rising star. Her post-fight interview (shown below courtesy of DAZN) was on point as well.
This win meant the world for @valerielouredaa ?#Bellator216 pic.twitter.com/pnX1DTNqbc
— DAZN USA (@DAZN_USA) February 17, 2019
For complete Bellator 216 results and coverage click here.