Leah McCourt pulled off a brilliant submission victory over Janay Harding at Bellator 259 on Friday night.
The Saintfield fighter stopped Harding with a triangle choke two minutes 42 seconds into the second round to notch up her fifth straight win.
McCourt had to show guts and heart after being rocked by some punishing punches and kicks from Harding.
But as she was grounded, McCourt landed an upkick on Harding which forced the Kiwi to the floor, and the Northern Ireland MMA star applied more pressure before earning her submission win.
"I knew Janay was a very tecnhical striker, and she has been in some deep waters with a lot of people," McCourt said.
"But I have the fight, and I have the heart, so I am delighted.
"I saw her wobble when I landed the kick and went for it."
McCourt's win elevates her up the featherweight rankings, but as for potential opponents she says she "doesn't care" who comes next.
"I just love fighting and improving," she added.
"All the girls in the division are top girls so every fight is a challenge."
The clinch dominated the opening round with the early stages being played out at close quarters.
Harding upped the ante with some solid striking in the second and appeared to have McCourt in trouble.
McCourt was then forced to the floor where Harding continue to rain down heavy punches and elbows.
But when Harding returned to her feet, McCourt landed a stinging upkick which rocked back the head of her opponent who fell back to the canvas.
And McCourt didn't miss the opportunity to find the triangle choke the end the contest.
