Joanna Jedrzejczyk on UFC title win: 'I did what I said, and I'm happy'

Joanna Jedrzejczyk

Not too many people were giving Joanna Jedrzejczyk a shot to beat Carla Esparza just one week ago.

Jedrzejcyk (9-0 MMA, 3-0 UFC) shut up the doubters on Saturday, dominating Esparza (10-3 MMA, 1-1 UFC) and finishing her with strikes in the second round.  With the victory came the title of UFC women’s strawweight champion.

“I did what I said, and I’m happy,” Jedrzejczyk told MMAjunkie Radio.

A big key to her success was the ability to fend off the takedown attempts from Esparza. Jedrzejczyk knew that the grappling was an area where few felt that she could compete with Esparza, a woman known for her tenacious wrestling game.

“I was working for this,” Jedrzejczyk said. “We knew that she would try to take me down, but I was ready for it, you know? My knee is still hurting me from the strength. I’m good. I’m happy. I was focused on my defense.

“Every day I’m happier. I’m just getting ready to go back home. Tomorrow I’m going to be really happy with my family.”

Prior to the fight, Esparza told the media that her goal would be defend her championship “two, at most three times a year.”

When asked the same question, the new champion had a very different take on her activity level.

“Let’s think,” Jedrzejczyk said. “About six or seven times. That would be nice.”

For complete coverage of UFC 185, check out the UFC Events section of the site.

MMAjunkie Radio broadcasts Monday-Friday at noon ET (9 a.m. PT) live from Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino’s Race & Sports Book. The show, available on SiriusXM channel 92, is hosted by “Gorgeous” George Garcia and producer Brian “Goze” Garcia. For more information or to download past episodes, go to www.mmajunkie.com/radio.