By Frank Bonada
Former IMMAF European and World Cup Gold Medalist Cecilie Bolander is set for the biggest test of her pro career to date as she takes on former UFC fighter Lucie Pudilová in a No.1 contender bout at OKTAGON 61.
Scheduled for September 21st, this highly anticipated matchup will determine the next top athlete to compete for the OKTAGON MMA women’s bantamweight title. With the belt currently vacant, Bolander has the opportunity to secure a major European title within the first five fights of her professional MMA career.
Undefeated since turning pro, Bolander has been unstoppable so far. Her latest victory came against fellow former IMMAF Champion Nina Nikolija Milosevic at Superior Challenge 26. The all-IMMAF alum clash showcased the skill and determination of both fighters, underscoring the positive impact their IMMAF amateur careers had on their growth as mixed martial artists. Bolander’s win over Milosevic only further solidified her status as one of Europe’s top prospects.
A former IMMAF European and World Cup gold medalist, Bolander’s amateur career is only marred by a single loss to one of the world’s top upcoming fighters, Sabrinna de Sousa. Bolander has been vocal in her desire to run the fight with de Sousa back in the pro ranks, once both athletes are at the pinnacles of their careers. In an interesting twist of fate, de Sousa is also set to fight on the same weekend as Bolander, competing for the Shooto Brasil flyweight title.
While the de Sousa rematch is certainly an enticing prospect for the future, for now, standing in her way is Lucie Pudilová. An 11-fight UFC veteran and OKTAGON MMA legend, Pudilová’s experience and resume make this Bolander’s toughest test to date. With the stakes higher than ever, Bolander’s IMMAF pedigree will be put to the test as she looks to cement her place as the next top contender in OKTAGON’s competitive bantamweight division.
As Bolander prepares for the biggest fight of her career, her journey from IMMAF gold medalist to professional contender serves as a testament to the importance of amateur MMA in developing future champions.
Fans can tune in to watch the next generation of MMA athletes compete at the 2024 IMMAF World Championships in November on IMMAF.tv.
