Tracy R. Cortez is a Mexican‑American professional mixed martial artist known for her disciplined wrestling, inspiring comeback story, and steady rise through the ranks of Invicta FC and the UFC. Competing in the UFC women’s flyweight division, Cortez has built a reputation for resilience, skill, and determination. With an 11‑2 professional record and a top-10 ranking, she represents both athletic excellence and cultural pride in MMA.
Her journey—from overcoming personal tragedy to facing some of the top fighters in the world—has made her a respected figure in the MMA community. This article explores her early life, career milestones, UFC achievements, personal life, net worth, and future aspirations.
Quick Facts of Tracy Cortez
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Tracy R. Cortez |
| Date of Birth | December 10, 1993 |
| Place of Birth | Phoenix, Arizona, USA |
| Nationality | American (Mexican descent) |
| Occupation | Professional MMA Fighter (UFC Flyweight) |
| Relationship | Previously engaged to Brian Ortega |
| Children | None |
| Net Worth (2024) | ≈ $100,000 |
| Major Achievements | Top-10 UFC flyweight contender; undefeated 11-fight win streak |
| Team & Trainer | Fight Ready MMA; coached by Santino DeFranco |
| Notable Traits | Strong wrestling base, tattoo in memory of late brother José |
Early Life and Family Background
Tracy Cortez was born on December 10, 1993, in Phoenix, Arizona, into a close-knit Mexican-American family. She grew up with three brothers: José, J.R., and Abraham. Tracy’s passion for MMA began at age 14 after watching her eldest brother José compete in the Contender Series.
Tragedy struck when José passed away from cancer in 2011. Tracy honored him with a tattoo on her arm and initially faced a period of depression. With the support of her family and mentors, including Henry and Angel Cejudo, she found purpose in MMA and committed to pursuing a professional fighting career.
Career Beginnings and Key Milestones
Tracy began her amateur career with a perfect 3‑0 record in World Fighting Federation and King of the Cage, which attracted the attention of Invicta FC.
- Professional Debut: Invicta FC 25 (2017) – lost via submission but rebounded with a 3-fight winning streak, including wins over Monica Medina (submission) and Karen Cedillo (TKO).
- Breakthrough: Dana White’s Contender Series, July 30, 2019 – defeated Mariya Agapova via unanimous decision, securing a UFC contract.
UFC Highlights
- Debut: November 2019 vs. Vanessa Melo in Brazil; won via unanimous decision.
- Key Wins: Stephanie Egger (2020), Justine Kish (2021), Melissa Gatto (2022), Jasmine Jasudavicius (2023).
- Main Event Spotlight: July 2024 vs. Rose Namajunas at UFC on ESPN 59; lost via unanimous decision but solidified her elite flyweight status.
- Upcoming Fight: June 28, 2025 – scheduled to face Viviane Araújo at UFC 317.
Current Relevance and Recent Updates
As of February 2025, Cortez ranks #10 in the UFC women’s flyweight division. She has been praised for her openness about mental health, particularly following a medical withdrawal in late 2022. Her transparency has made her a role model for fighter wellness and resilience.
Personal Life and Relationships
Cortez was previously engaged to UFC featherweight Brian Ortega, who famously had her name tattooed on his lip. She is currently unmarried and has no children. Tracy remains deeply influenced by her late brother José, with his portrait tattooed on her arm as a tribute.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
Tracy Cortez’s estimated net worth is $100,000 (2024), earned through UFC fight purses, sponsorships (e.g., Ghost Lifestyle, Alphalete), and media appearances.
- Fight Earnings: UFC base pay ~$18K, win bonus ~$18K, sponsorships ~$4K per major bout.
- Lifestyle: Lives modestly, trains full-time at Fight Ready MMA in Phoenix, and focuses on brand partnerships for supplemental income.
Trivia & Interesting Facts
- Sagittarius zodiac sign; 5’5″ height, 65-inch reach.
- Tattoo honors late brother José.
- Cut her hair before weigh-ins to make weight for Namajunas fight.
- Over 1.2 million Instagram followers.
- Shares openness about mental health and fighter wellness.
Charitable Efforts and Legacy
Tracy advocates for mental health awareness and supports youth MMA training programs. Her story exemplifies turning personal loss into athletic drive, inspiring fans and aspiring fighters alike.
Future Plans and Cultural Impact
Tracy Cortez aims for a title run in the UFC flyweight division, with the upcoming bout against Viviane Araújo at UFC 317 representing a crucial step. As a Mexican-American fighter, she embodies bicultural identity, female empowerment, and mental-health advocacy in combat sports, reshaping cultural norms around fighter well-being.
