UFC star Joanna Jedrzejczyk has described the facial injuries she sustained at UFC 248 as making her ’look like a zombie’.

The 32 year-old lost a split decision to Zhang Weili in March in what was widely regarded as one of the greatest UFC fights of all time.

The pair traded punishing blows for five rounds in Las Vegas as Jedrzejczyk’s forehead swelled up in horrific fashion.

And yet despite the severe facial damage she took in defeat, the Polish fighter does not regret carrying on until the final bell.

Speaking to BBC Sport, she said: "I was like 'holy moly'. I looked like a zombie. One day I'll post pictures of how I looked. It was so funny; some people didn't even recognise me.

"It could've scarred half my face. It was so painful. For a split-second, I questioned if I should stop, but I was still going forward.

"I knew I'd heal. I was more mad at myself because I wanted to have a few nice days in Vegas with my friends and family! But this is the price we pay. I've been doing this for 17 years so I know the game."

The loss was Jedrzejczyk’s fifth defeat in seven fights, but her stock rose in spite of the result due to the brutal nature of the contest.

And while it was one of her most memorable bouts to date, she is also wary that she does not want to be involved in too many more severe scraps like that.

"I'm an athlete but I'm a woman too and I want to look like one," she added.

"This sport can change your body and your mind, and it's a big thing for women. I'm happy the UFC take good care of us because in the future I want to be a mum and a businesswoman."