The Chinese MMA fighter Wang Cong’s debut for the promotion remains stellar. Her gimmick as the fictional character ‘Joker’ at the weigh-ins and her thrilling performance has caused a stir in the community. Cong ticked all necessary boxes in her debut but was snubbed when bonuses were announced. However, UFC CEO Dana White later ensured she got her much-deserving bonus.
Wang Cong defeated Victoria Leonardo within just 62 seconds at UFC Vegas 62. In what was the first fight of the night, the unbeaten MMA fighter made quick work of her opponent. However, she was quite disappointed after learning that her stunning finish didn’t come with a $50,000 bonus. To address her dismay, Cong went on to her social media handle.
Wake up and find out there is no POTN (Performance of the Night). Next fight you will see more spectacular finish @ufc. Don t play with Joker again!
Wang Cong via Instagram
The quick knockout secured Wang the record for the fastest debut flyweight finish in UFC women’s history. Not only that, it was also the second-fastest knockout in the history of the UFC women’s flyweight division. Interestingly, UFC CEO Dana White did not attend UFC Vegas 96 to watch the Chinese fighter’s debut. Nonetheless, he sent her a response that she was very happy to receive.
I was out of town and watched the fight @mystiqueboston on TV. You looked AMAZING. I m adding another PON bonus for u. Congrats u get 50k.
Dana White via Instagram
🚨| Dana White caught up with the #UFCVegas96 card from last night and has decided to give out an extra $50k performance bonus to Wang Cong for her 62-second knockout of Victoria Leonardo. 💰 pic.twitter.com/LDb0paBM0R
— MMA Orbit (@mma_orbit) August 25, 2024
This isn’t the first time White has handed out a bonus for an exceptional performance. On several occasions, he has even raised the bonus exceeding the $100,000 mark. The fight bonuses boost the fighters’ morale, helping them perform better and strive to earn rewards in their future fights. As for Cong, during her octagon interview, she called out an Australian MMA fighter for the next bout.
Wang Cong calls out Casey O’Neil following an exquisite debut win
The Chinese fighter’s debut win has moved her to 6-0 in her professional MMA career. Interestingly, she also boasts an impressive kickboxing record, including a win over former UFC champion Valentina Shevchenko. In the near future, a rivalry between Cong and Shevchenko might ignite, similar to Israel Adesanya and Alex Pereira.
Wang Cong calls out Casey O’Neill (Image via X)In the meantime, Cong wishes to take on the #15 ranked flyweight, Casey O’Neill. The Australian fighter had an exquisite start to her UFC career by winning four consecutive fights before losing to Jennifer Maia in a controversial fight. Nevertheless, O’Neill returned to the win column at UFC 305. Wang Cong wants to take on the opportunity of the Australian fighter’s rough patch to get herself ranked quickly.
I’m not happy. I don’t know why the UFC put me as the first fight on the prelims. I think I deserve the main card. So, UFC Macau, I need to be on the main card… Next, Casey O’Neill, are you ready?
Wang Cong via UFC Vegas 96 Octagon interview
A fight against Casey O’Neill next might be the best option for Cong after the debut win. Given that Wang Cong wins against the Australian fighter will she push for Valentina Shevchenko it remains to be seen. As of now, there are no official confirmations of these potential bouts yet. If Cong can defeat O’Neill, the UFC may have another rising female superstar in the promotion.
