Ilima-Lei Macfarlane Willing to Postpone Retirement for Flyweight Grand Prix

Ilima-Lei Macfarlane wasn’t sure the scorecards were going to go her way following a hard-fought bout against Kana Watanabe in the Bellator 295 co-main event.

Ultimately, Macfarlane emerged with a split-decision triumph, her second consecutive victory within the California-based promotion. “The Ilimanator” came away impressed with her opponent, even though winning on the scorecards wasn’t especially satisfying.

“Her control was so good on the ground. We were prepared for her judo sweeps and everything. We prepared that as soon as it hit the ground, we’d have to scramble. She wasn’t giving me any space,” Macfarlane said at the post-fight press conference. “I honestly thought I lost, but I always think that in the fights that go to a decision because I’m so used to finishing, that when it goes to a decision I consider it a loss.”

In a closely-contested bout, neither fighter was able to gain a clear advantage. Macfarlane believes her fight is a clear example of how Bellator’s flyweight division has improved since its introduction.

“I think that this is a testament to how the division has grown,” she said. “This is a good thing. It’s harder for me to get the finish, but that just shows how deep our division is getting and how high-level these women are. Now, I have to be a little bit more tactical and strategic than go for the finish and possibly lose the position.”

While the victory is expected to set up a title bout with friend and training partner Liz Carmouche down the road, Macfarlane would like to see Bellator go the tournament route with its women’s flyweight division. If that dream was realized, the Hawaiian would consider putting off her impending retirement by a few more fights.

“We haven’t done a women’s Grand Prix in any division, and the flyweight division is the way to go. I’ve been calling for one since 2019. Every flyweight fight this weekend has been badass. I would be down; a million dollars is pretty sweet. Uncle Scott — let’s do a Grand Prix! I’ve been thinking about retirement more seriously lately because I wanted to start a family. But, a million dollars [would be] pretty cool. So, I could push back baby-making for a little bit.”