UFC flyweight division showcase fighter Tracy Cortez has built a reputation as one of the top prospects. She is making headlines in the mixed martial arts (MMA) world with a journey full of struggle, loss, and hard work. Though she has faced some tough losses, Cortez has bounced back strong and has remained a fan favourite in the organisation.
Early Life and Inspiration
Tracy Cortez was born in Phoenix, Arizona, on December 10, 1993. At the age of 14, she became interested in MMA after watching her elder brother, Jose Cortez, fight against Drew Fickett. Jose wanted to fight in the UFC but was found to be suffering from very serious heart disease. Later in life, he suffered from cancer and ended up dying in 2011. To remember him, Tracy started pursuing a career in MMA. She goes inside the octagon carrying her brother’s legacy.
Rise in Professional MMA
Tracy fought with Cheri Muraski, making her professional MMA debut on August 31, 2017, at Invicta FC 25. After stumbling once through submission, she got back on her feet and went on a winning streak.
In 2019, Tracy made a name for herself when she defeated Mariya Agapova unanimously at Dana White’s Contender Series 22. After this victory, she was awarded a UFC contract, so she began her career in the UFC.
UFC Career and Notable Fights
Cortez’s first fight in the UFC was at UFC Fight Night: Błachowicz vs. Jacaré on November 16, 2019, where she won Vanessa Melo by unanimous decision. She didn’t stop winning, beating Stephanie Egger and Justine Kish to cement herself as a real player at flyweight.
At UFC 274 in May 2022, Cortez fought against Melissa Gatto, where she won the bout. She won another unanimous decision with a strong performance, taking her professional record to 10-1.
Recent Fights and Challenges
Cortez was meant to fight Amanda Ribas in December 2022 but had to withdraw from the fight due to injury. But she bounced back strong on September 16, 2023, at UFC Fight Night 227, beating Jasmine Jasudavicius by unanimous decision.
Cortez experienced her most significant challenge in July when she clashed with the prior UFC strawweight champion, Rose Namajunas, at UFC on ESPN 59. Even though she fought hard, she lost by decision for only the second time in her career. Even though she lost, it showed she could compete with world-class fighters.
Personal Life and Media Attention
Outside the octagon, Cortez has received a lot of attention for her relationship with UFC star Brian Ortega. They used to be engaged, and in February 2022, Brian got a tattoo of her name on his body. But soon, things did not go well for them, and the two broke up.
Conclusion
Tracy Cortez has overcome many challenges to become a successful mixed martial artist. From a personal tragedy to a professional triumph, she continues to prove herself as a poised rising star in the UFC. Despite challenges, she is focused on the flyweight rankings and competing with the best. As she prepares for her next bout, fans know her road is far from over.
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