Ditcheva Dominates Kielholtz Over Three Rounds At PFL New York

Dakota Ditcheva won a unanimous decision over Denise Kielholtz in the women's flyweight co-main event at PFL New York on Friday, controlling all three rounds but failing to deliver the statement finish many expected.

The 2024 PFL flyweight champion, returning after more than a year away, used her size and reach advantages to pick Kielholtz apart over 15 minutes at UBS Arena in Belmont Park, New York. All three judges scored it 30-27 for Ditcheva, according to MMA Fighting's live coverage.

Ditcheva Controls Range But Crowd Grows Restless

Ditcheva stood nine years younger, five inches taller, and heavier than Kielholtz, who came in under the 125-pound limit. The British striker switched stances early and found success with straight punches and body kicks, though Kielholtz landed a counter left hook midway through the first round. Ditcheva closed the frame with a big knee to the body that may have landed after the bell.

The second round saw Ditcheva open up further, catching a kick and taking Kielholtz down before tripping her again moments later. Kielholtz's face showed damage as Ditcheva mixed in jabs, switch punches, and head kicks. In the third, Ditcheva continued to work the body and land at range, but the low output drew loud boos from the crowd. MMA Fighting noted the performance was "dominant" but "not a star-making one."

The promotion declined to give Ditcheva a post-fight interview after the decision was announced. Kielholtz, a former Bellator title challenger, had entered on a three-fight win streak including a February decision in her PFL debut.

Reported via:

• MMA Fighting — PFL New York live blog: Dakota Ditcheva vs. Denise Kielholtz