For Joanna Jedrzejczyk, being inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame evokes mixed emotions. While she feels honored by the recognition, the occasion also marks the conclusion of a significant chapter in her life—a door that may remain closed indefinitely.
Recalling the emotional moment when the announcement was made during the UFC 299 broadcast, Jedrzejczyk expressed her inner conflict, stating, “That’s why I was crying. Honestly, there is no day I’m not thinking about coming back. I want to stay loyal and stick to my decision to retire, but it’s really difficult. I am happy, but there is something missing without fighting.”
As a former strawweight champion renowned for her record-breaking five title defenses, Jedrzejczyk is set to be officially enshrined in the UFC Hall of Fame in June. She will join the esteemed ranks alongside the trailblazing Ronda Rousey, whom she considers a friend and a source of inspiration.
The trajectory of Jedrzejczyk’s career, culminating in this prestigious honor, may have seemed inevitable to many fans over the years. However, when the Polish fighter first stepped into the Octagon in July 2014, the notion of such an achievement would have appeared improbable.
Reflecting on her debut and its enduring significance, Jedrzejczyk emphasized its pivotal nature, despite the subsequent milestones she reached—from her title reign to headlining marquee UFC events like UFC 193 and 205.
Discovering old photographs from her early days in the UFC while sorting through belongings, Jedrzejczyk reminisced, “I always tell people that my favorite moment of my career was my UFC debut… Someone gave me a big chance, and my dream was about to come true. As I walked to the Octagon, I had it in my head that they’re letting you shine, J, so shine like the brightest star.”
Following a successful debut against Juliana Lima, Jedrzejczyk ascended to become the second strawweight champion in UFC history by defeating Carla Esparza. Despite relinquishing the title to Rose Namajunas after five defenses, she continued to compete in several high-profile bouts before retiring post a TKO loss to Zhang Weili in June 2022.
While Jedrzejczyk acknowledges missing the competitive arena and entertains the idea of exploring jiu-jitsu and boxing, she remains resolute in her decision to retire from MMA, citing a desire to preserve her legacy and avoid disappointing her supporters.
Beyond her fighting career, Jedrzejczyk has engaged in various pursuits, including authoring a cookbook and biographies, producing a documentary, and spearheading the JJ Stars foundation in Poland.
Looking ahead, she envisions travel adventures, participation in the Dakar Rally, and endeavors to secure sponsorships through her commitment to motorsports. Amid her diverse activities, Jedrzejczyk remains an avid spectator of the sport, admiring both established figures like Amanda Nunes and rising talents like Maycee Barber.
As she paves the way for future female fighters, Jedrzejczyk hopes to be remembered as a dreamer who defied the odds—a testament to unwavering determination and the belief that any aspiration, pursued wholeheartedly, is attainable.