Bellator MMA flyweight champion Ilima-Lei Macfarlane is full of respect and admiration for recent opponent, Kate Jackson.

Macfarlane successfully defended her flyweight title at last week’s Bellator 236 event.

Macfarlane (11-0-0) successfully defended her flyweight title for a fourth time at the Bellator 236 event last week, defeating Kate Jackson via unanimous decision. However, Jackson gained a lot of respect from MMA fans for taking a lot of punishment and ultimately making it the distance. The bout marks the first time a fight has gone the distance during Macfarlane’s reign as champion.

The 29-year-old, also known as ‘The Iliminator’ took to her Instagram account on Christmas Day to deliver a message to her former foe.

“Kate Jackson, it was a privilege to share the cage with you. You fought hard all five rounds in enemy territory and earned the respect of everyone here in the islands. You did your country proud! By the way, this is the most damage my face has ever taken! Still feeling it. Mele Kalikimaka girl, you one warrior!” Macfarlane wrote.

Macfarlane has defended her Bellator MMA flyweight title a total of four times.

Undefeated Macfarlane won the belt by defeating Emily Ducote via fourth-round submission at the Bellator 186 event in 2017. She has since gone on to defend it with finishes over Alejandra Lara, Valerie Letourneau and Veta Arteaga, before last week’s decision win over Jackson.

Fight fans, what did you think of the recent fight between Macfarlane and Jackson? Who would you like to see Macfarlane defend the belt against next? Let us know in the comments section below.

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