Former UFC women’s strawweight champion Joanna Jedrzejczyk recently opened up about her plans for a comeback earlier this year, which were unfortunately derailed by a significant injury that required surgery and a lengthy recovery period.
Jedrzejczyk, who has not been seen in the Octagon since her loss to Weili Zhang in June of 2022, revealed her comeback aspirations during an interview with Cageside Press at UFC X during International Fight Week. The Polish star had returned to American Top Team in January, hoping to make a triumphant return to the sport that made her a dominant force in the strawweight division.
However, her plans took an unexpected turn when she was sidelined by a severe injury that she had been battling since 2020. Recognizing the severity of her condition, Jedrzejczyk decided to undergo surgery to address the issue. Now, she faces a long road to recovery, with an estimated timeframe of five to nine months of physiotherapy required to regain her fitness and be ready to compete in any sport again.
While it remains uncertain whether Jedrzejczyk will ultimately make a comeback to professional fighting, she expressed her continued passion for the sport and her desire to remain involved on some level. Although she has no intention of becoming a coach, she envisions herself helping and training female fighters and men in the lighter weight classes. Jedrzejczyk made it clear that her love for the sport will never wane and that she intends to continue training indefinitely.
As for her potential induction into the UFC Hall of Fame, Jedrzejczyk believes that what’s meant to be will be. Although she has not approached UFC president Dana White about the possibility, she understands that the decision rests with the organization. Reflecting on attending the Hall of Fame induction ceremony during International Fight Week, Jedrzejczyk commended the UFC for its continued growth and evolution, expressing her admiration for the event. While she hopes to be included one day, she remains patient and understanding of the process.
In conclusion, Joanna Jedrzejczyk’s plans for a comeback earlier this year were thwarted by a debilitating injury that required surgical intervention. Although her return to the Octagon is uncertain, Jedrzejczyk’s passion for the sport remains unwavering, and she intends to stay involved by training and assisting other fighters. As she continues her recovery and rehabilitation journey, only time will tell if Jedrzejczyk will once again grace the UFC stage.
