Melissa ‘Scare’ Croden delivers in impressive UFC debut

Calgary UFC fighter Melissa Croden is off to a great start

Melissa “Scare” Croden’s debut in the UFC couldn’t have gone much better for the 34-year-old Calgarian.

Croden proved once again that she packs a powerful punch. Croden took care of Brazil’s Tainara Lisoba in the third round of their match in Vancouver on October 18.

Croden was delighted with how things turned out.

“I think I had nine weeks to prepare for it,” she said.

“It was quite a surreal experience. I’ve never fought in a stadium like that before. It was Rogers arena so experiencing that was probably one of the highlights of my life.”

Need to impress

Croden signed a four fight contract with the UFC but every time she steps into the octagon, she has to prove herself if she wants to advance.

Croden says striking is her strength and people are noticing.

“I think people like strikers and as far as an entertainment business, people tend to lean on the side of favouring strikers because people want to see a little bit of blood. It’s like the coliseum but in 2025 if you will.”

Curtis Demarce is Croden’s coach. He says the win was big for the country.

“Definitely a historic moment for Canada,” said Demarce. “(Just) being there and just being in good spirits with her. She did really well just like we had assumed and she puts in the work so I wasn’t surprised by the outcome -- but definitely a good start for her UFC career.”

Next up

Croden’s next fight is in Las Vegas on December 13^th where she’ll take on another Brazilian fighter Luana Santos.

Croden knows it won’t be easy but she’ll be ready for Santos.

“Really good at Judo, a great grappler and decent at striking. It’s going to be another challenge that I’m really excited to face.”

“It’s a quick turnaround but I’m excited to have the opportunity to stay active.”