MELBOURNE, Australia – Megan Anderson earned the most definitive victory of her UFC career on Saturday (Sunday locally) when she overwhelmed octagon newcomer Zarah Fairn en route to victory at UFC 243.
Anderson (9-4 MMA, 2-2 UFC) unloaded with ground-and-pound on Fairn (6-3 MMA, 0-1 UFC) before transitioning to a triangle-choke submission that forced the tap inside the first round, giving Anderson a triumphant moment in her home country of Australia.
The women’s featherweight bout was part of the UFC 243 preliminary card at Marvel Stadium in Melbourne.
Fairn came out of the gate strong, attacking Anderson with a combination that put the former Invicta FC champion’s back against the fence. Anderson stayed composed, though, and worked her way into a body lock position that ultimately set up a takedown. From there, it was Anderson’s fight.
Anderson methodically battered Fairn, opening up cuts on her face. Just when it seemed Fairn might escape danger by scrambling out of bottom position, she instead found herself locked in a tight triangle choke. Fairn attempted to escape but couldn’t, and the fight was over at 3:51 of Round 1.
It was an emotional moment for Anderson, who fought back tears during her post-fight interview with Jon Anik.
“I feel amazing,” Anderson said. “I definitely know my last couple fights I haven’t fought to my potential, and tonight was about showing who I am and that I’m a well rounded fighter. It’s amazing to come home in front of the Australian fans.”
Up-to-the-minute UFC 243 results include:
- Megan Anderson def. Zarah Fairn via submission (triangle choke) – Round 1, 3:57
- Ji Yeon Kim def. Nadia Kassem via TKO (punches) – Round 2, 4:59
- Khalid Taha def. Bruno Silva via submission (arm-triangle choke) – Round 3, 3:00
