Scots fighter takes Canada by storm as she eyes shot at title
The Kilmarnock UFC contender made the biggest statement of her career last week when she wa l ked into enemy territory in Ottawa and produced a knockout win.
Previously known for being mentally weak, the 29-year- old waltzed into the Octagon and disposed of bookies’ favour ite Valerie Letourneau with a flurry of brutal strikes.
Af ter hu r t ing her hometown opponent to the body, Calderwood landed knees and elbows and connected with a devastating spinning backf ist that crumpled Letourneau on the canvas.
And so it’s no surprise she received all kinds of praise for her career-best performance.
In the fight’s immediate aftermath UFC president Dana White showered her with compliments.
The powerhouse voice of the UFC – an organisation that could be sold for $ 4bi l l ion very soon – promised the Scot a big bonus and a new contract.
White said: “She will be bonused for that fight.
“We’re going to take care of her and we’re going to sign her to a new deal.”
Indeed Calderwood heard from the UFC brass yesterday and, if all goes to plan, everything is set to be signed, sealed and delivered by tomorrow.
The Scot said: “People were messaging me and going crazy after Dana said that. My team are trying to get it done right now and they’re talking.
“I’ve still got another four fights on my current deal but it’s not the best so this is a huge thing for me.
“I want to fight twice again this year and I want a tit le f ight in Scotland next year. It’s my dream to win the title at home.”
The success marks an incredible turnaround for Calderwood who went a year without fighting.
Previously coached by her ex- boyfriend, her career suffered after a difficult break-up.
She left the Griphouse Gym in Glasgow for Canada and the Tristar gym where she works with the best fighters in the world.
Calderwood added: “I don’t know how many times I almost gave up. Going to Tristar was my turning point.
“I sorted my head out and even though I was the underdog against Valerie I visualised how I’d win. “It wa s the be s t performance of my career.”