Tracy Cortez, an American professional mixed martial artist, has emerged as a prominent figure in the world of combat sports. Competing in the women’s Flyweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), Cortez’s journey is one of resilience, determination, and triumph over adversity. From her early beginnings in Phoenix, Arizona, to her rise in the UFC rankings, Cortez’s story is both inspiring and compelling.
Tracy R. Cortez was born on December 10, 1993, in Phoenix, Arizona, into a family of Mexican descent. Growing up in a household of immigrants, Cortez was the youngest of four siblings. Her family’s journey was marked by hard work and perseverance, values that would later shape her approach to life and her career.
Cortez’s introduction to mixed martial arts (MMA) came at the age of 14, inspired by her eldest brother, Jose Cortez. Jose was an aspiring MMA fighter whose dream was to compete in the UFC. In 2008, Tracy watched her brother fight against UFC veteran Drew Fickett, a moment that ignited her passion for the sport. However, tragedy struck when Jose was diagnosed with germ cell cancer and passed away in 2011. His death deeply affected Tracy, but it also became a source of motivation for her. She honored his memory with a tattoo on her arm and carried his fighting spirit into her own career.
Tracy Cortez began her MMA journey with an amateur record of 3-0, competing under promotions like World Fighting Federation (WFF) and King of the Cage (KOTC). Her early success showcased her potential and determination, leading to her professional debut in 2017.
Cortez’s professional career began with a setback, as she lost her debut fight via submission. However, she quickly rebounded, securing victories in subsequent bouts. Her resilience and ability to learn from challenges became defining traits of her career. Competing in promotions like Invicta Fighting Championships and Combate Americas, Cortez honed her skills and built a reputation as a formidable competitor.
In 2019, Tracy Cortez gained widespread recognition when she appeared on Dana White’s Contender Series, a platform that showcases emerging talent in MMA. Facing Mariya Agapova, Cortez delivered an impressive performance, winning the fight via unanimous decision. Her victory earned her a UFC contract, marking a significant milestone in her career.
Tracy Cortez made her UFC debut in November 2019, facing Vanessa Melo at UFC Fight Night 164. She won the fight via unanimous decision, showcasing her striking and grappling skills. Cortez continued her winning streak with victories over opponents like Stephanie Egger, Justine Kish, and Melissa Gatto. Her ability to adapt and execute well-rounded strategies in the octagon has made her a rising star in the Flyweight division.
As of 2025, Cortez is ranked #10 in the UFC women’s Flyweight rankings. Her record of 11 wins and 2 losses reflects her consistency and determination to succeed at the highest level of the sport.
Tracy Cortez is known for her well-rounded fighting style, combining striking, grappling, and wrestling techniques. Her ability to control fights with her wrestling and ground game has been a key factor in her success. Cortez’s striking has also evolved over the years, making her a versatile and unpredictable opponent.
One of Cortez’s greatest strengths is her mental toughness. Her journey through personal loss and professional challenges has instilled in her a resilience that sets her apart from her peers. Cortez often speaks about drawing inspiration from her late brother, whose fighting spirit continues to motivate her.
Tracy Cortez’s personal life is deeply intertwined with her MMA career. Her family remains a central source of support and inspiration. Cortez has often spoken about the role her brother Jose played in shaping her journey, describing him as her “biggest motivator.”
Cortez’s connection to her Mexican heritage is another important aspect of her identity. She takes pride in representing her culture and community on the global stage, using her platform to inspire others to pursue their dreams.
Tracy Cortez’s journey has not been without its challenges. From the loss of her brother to the physical and mental demands of MMA, Cortez has faced numerous obstacles. However, her ability to overcome adversity has been a defining feature of her career.
Cortez has also been open about her struggles with depression following her brother’s passing. With the support of her family and mentors like Henry Cejudo, a former UFC champion and close friend of her brother, Cortez found the strength to continue her journey. Her story serves as a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of a strong support system.
As a rising star in the UFC, Tracy Cortez is not only making her mark in the Flyweight division but also inspiring a new generation of fighters. Her journey from a young girl in Phoenix to a top-ranked UFC athlete is a story of perseverance, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence.
Cortez’s impact extends beyond the octagon. She is a role model for aspiring fighters, particularly women and individuals from underrepresented communities. Her success highlights the importance of hard work, resilience, and staying true to one’s values.
Tracy Cortez’s journey in mixed martial arts is a story of triumph over adversity, fueled by passion, resilience, and a deep connection to her family and heritage. From her early days in Phoenix to her rise in the UFC rankings, Cortez has demonstrated the qualities of a true champion.
As she continues to compete and inspire, Tracy Cortez’s legacy will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the world of MMA. Her story serves as a reminder that with determination and perseverance, it is possible to overcome challenges and achieve greatness.
Also Read: Ihor Potieria: The Duelist’s Journey in Mixed Martial Arts
In a highly anticipated matchup, the LSU Tigers secured a commanding 44–21 victory over the…
The name Molly McGovern might not be immediately recognizable to everyone, but her story is…
Actor Mark Consuelos shocked his fans with a drastic change to his iconic look when…
Dr. Dre, the name that changed the face of hip hop and revolutionized the music…
ActBlue is one of the most important yet often misunderstood tools in American politics today.…
: California's economy has achieved a remarkable feat by ranking as the fourth-largest economy globally.…