UFC debut success for Wisbech St Mary’s John ‘The One’ Maguire

MIXED martial artist John ‘The One’ Maguire made an immediate impression in the Ultimate Fighting Championship by winning his debut bout on Saturday.

The Wisbech St Mary grappling expert defeated Justin Edwards by unanimous decision at the sold-out UFC 138 show in Birmingham.

The 28-year-old welterweight, East Anglia’s first fighter to land a contract with the UFC, went the full three rounds before defeating his American opponent 30-27 on all three judges’ scorecards.

‘The One’ was floored in the first round but responded excellently and went close to picking up victory by submission on a couple of occasions.

Maguire said on Twitter: “Thanks everyone who sent me messages on Twitter and Facebook.

“I’ve had so many great comments, I really appreciate them all. Thanks for the love.”

The match was so entertaining that programmers swiftly placed the full fight on the main card which was then aired worldwide.