Cris Cyborg opens up about what motivates her ahead of final MMA bout

Cris Cyborg prepares for what is being billed as her final MMA fight, reflecting on a career devoted to elevating the sport and proving that women's fights can be just as exciting and decisive as men's bouts. The Brazilian featherweight will defend her PFL women's featherweight championship against Ketlen Vieira in the main event of PFL Tampa on August 22 at Benchmark International Arena in Tampa, Florida.

With championships spanning multiple major promotions and more than two decades of professional competition, Cyborg has become one of mixed martial arts' most accomplished athletes. In a video released by the PFL, she explained her enduring motivation: shifting perception of women's fighting. "A lot of people didn't believe in girls' fights," Cyborg said. "'Ah, girls fight terrible.' I tried to show the opposite. I wanted to do exciting fights like the guys do exciting fights. Finish the fight. This is what motivated me."

Cyborg acknowledged the profound impact the sport has had on her life, expressing gratitude for the opportunities and transformations it has provided beyond her championship accomplishments. The fight will air on ESPN at 10 p.m. ET on Saturday, August 22.