Dakota Ditcheva had to work harder than usual, but the PFL women’s flyweight standout remained perfect on Friday night. Ditcheva defeated Denise Kielholtz by unanimous decision at PFL New York inside UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, improving her professional MMA record to 16-0.
Kielholtz Refuses to Back Down
Ditcheva entered the co-main event as a huge favorite, with the odds heavily stacked in her favor. She had built a reputation as one of the most dominant fighters in the PFL, making another stoppage seem like the expected outcome.
Kielholtz had other plans. The experienced striker stood in front of Ditcheva and traded throughout the fight. Her background in kickboxing and Muay Thai was evident as she refused to give Ditcheva easy openings.
Ditcheva remained aggressive and constantly searched for a finish. She pressed forward and looked for opportunities to end the fight before the final bell.
Kielholtz, however, continued to weather the pressure. The Dutch veteran never allowed Ditcheva to completely take control of the contest. While Ditcheva was unable to produce the stoppage many expected, she did enough across the fight to secure the judges’ unanimous decision.
Ditcheva Moves to 16-0
The victory keeps Ditcheva unbeaten at 16-0 and adds another high-level opponent to her growing résumé. At 28 years old, Ditcheva continues to establish herself as one of the most dangerous fighters competing outside the UFC. Her combination of speed, striking and finishing ability has made her one of the PFL’s biggest stars.
Kielholtz provided a different kind of challenge on Friday. Ditcheva did not get the dominant finish she has become known for, but she still found a way to win when the fight went the distance.
The biggest question surrounding Ditcheva now is how long she will remain in the PFL. The English standout has long appeared destined for a UFC move. A run against the top 125-pound fighters in the UFC could give her the opportunity to prove whether her dominance in the PFL can translate to the sport’s biggest stage.