MIAMI — Joanne Wood beat Maryna Moroz with a split decision Saturday to open up the preliminary card at UFC 299 at Kaseya Center in Miami.
Take a look inside the fight with Wood, who announced her retirement after the win and a dozen years in the sport.
Wood on potential temptation to come back
Mar 9, 2024; Miami, Florida, USA; Joanne Wood during her fight against Marina Moroz (not shown) during UFC 299 at Kayesa Center. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports
“I’m retiring on a good note. Even before this win, I was sure, and I want it. I want it to be like that. I’m good for money. I’m good. I’ve worked my ass off for this moment to walk away on a good note. This is where I’m supposed to be. I’m healthy and happy and content and still going to be involved in martial arts and fighting — but just not myself.
“I was always waiting for that Scottish call. You know, if they go back to Scotland, I was for sure going to be on that card. Would I come out of retirement to go there? Luckily, I don’t think they’re going there anytime soon. Who knows with the UFC — I’m probably going to be the last one to know if that happens. But yeah — this is it. (I’m) finally done. I’ll be there watching.”
Wood on her quiet demeanor
“The first time I met Dana White, he’s like, ‘Oh, I’ve heard about you. You’re like that girl from “Pitch Perfect.” And I was like, ‘What, Fat Amy?’ And he was like, ‘No, the really quiet one that just mumbles, like, “I killed my sister” — the woman who says really absurd things in a really quiet voice.” So this part right here, I’ve always struggled with. I’ve always done it. I love you guys. It’s nothing to do with you guys. It’s nothing personal. I just don’t like talking about myself and talking in general. I’m from Scotland. I’m not very good at it.”
Wood on what she wants next
Mar 9, 2024; Miami, Florida, USA; Joanne Wood, right, is congratulated after her win against Marina Moroz during UFC 299 at Kayesa Center. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports
“Luckily, I married a head coach who has a gym, so that’s my retirement — I’m going to take over the gym. No, I’m going to help him with the team, the gym, and on Monday I get my new keys to my new house, which is one floor, so no more stairs. So that’s my retirement.”
To hear more from Wood, check out the video above.
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