Tracy R. Cortez Bio
Tracy R. Cortez is an American professional mixed martial artist competing in the women’s Flyweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Born on December 10, 1993, she has established herself as a skilled fighter and is ranked #8 in the UFC women’s flyweight rankings as of July 1, 2025.
Early Life and Background
Tracy R. Cortez was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona, in a family of Mexican immigrants. She grew up with three brothers and was inspired to pursue mixed martial arts after watching her oldest brother, Jose Cortez, compete and win against a former UFC veteran. Jose’s battle with germ cell cancer and his passing in 2011 deeply affected Tracy, motivating her to honor his memory through her fighting career. She credits her family and close friends of her brother for helping her overcome depression and stay focused on her goals.
Path to MMA
Cortez began training in mixed martial arts at the age of 14, inspired by her brother’s dedication. She competed as an amateur in promotions such as World Fighting Federation and King of the Cage, achieving an undefeated 3–0 record before turning professional. Her early professional career included fighting in Invicta Fighting Championships, where she gained valuable experience and showcased her talent. Her performances caught the attention of larger promotions, paving the way for her entry into the UFC.
Tracy R. Cortez Career
Early Career (2017–2019)
Tracy Cortez made her professional debut in 2017, fighting initially in Invicta FC and other regional promotions. She faced challenges early on, including a submission loss in her Invicta debut, but quickly rebounded with several wins. Her record improved steadily as she demonstrated skill and resilience, earning unanimous decision victories and submission wins. These performances helped her build momentum and credibility in the competitive MMA landscape.
In 2019, Cortez participated in Dana White’s Tuesday Night Contender Series, where she secured a unanimous decision win over Mariya Agapova. This victory earned her a contract with the UFC, marking a significant milestone in her career.
Ultimate Fighting Championship Breakthrough (2019–Present)
Cortez was scheduled to debut in the UFC in late 2019 but faced last-minute changes in opponents and weight class adjustments. Despite these challenges, she won her first UFC fight by unanimous decision. She continued to build her UFC record with notable wins against fighters such as Stephanie Egger, Justine Kish, Melissa Gatto, and Jasmine Jasudavicius, often winning by decision and demonstrating tactical prowess in the flyweight division.
Her UFC journey has included bouts affected by weight issues and medical withdrawals, but she has maintained a strong presence in the division. In 2024, she stepped in as a replacement to face Rose Namajunas, facing a tough unanimous decision loss. She bounced back with a unanimous decision win over Viviane Araújo in mid-2025 but later lost a rematch to Erin Blanchfield by submission.
Fight Ready MMA and Neuro Force One Era (2017–Present)
Tracy Cortez trains with Fight Ready MMA and Neuro Force One, teams that have supported her development and competitive success. These affiliations have provided her with high-level coaching and training partners, contributing to her technical growth and strategic fight preparation. Her current training environment plays a key role in her ongoing efforts to climb the UFC flyweight rankings.
Fighting Style and Strengths
Cortez is known for her well-rounded skill set, combining striking and grappling effectively. She has demonstrated strong decision wins, indicating solid cardio and fight IQ. Her ability to adapt to opponents and maintain composure under pressure are among her strengths, supported by her training teams and coaching staff.
Notable Events and Milestones
Significant moments in Cortez’s career include her successful UFC debut, her win on Dana White’s Contender Series that secured her UFC contract, and her rise into the top 10 of the UFC women’s flyweight rankings. Her resilience in overcoming personal tragedy and professional challenges has marked her journey.
Tracy R. Cortez Career Wins
Tracy Cortez has compiled a professional MMA record of 12 wins and 3 losses. Her victories include decisions, submissions, and knockouts, reflecting versatility and effectiveness across multiple fight scenarios.
UFC Highlights
Within the UFC, Cortez has secured multiple wins by unanimous and split decision, showcasing her tactical approach and endurance. Her first UFC win came against Vanessa Melo, and she has continued to perform strongly against a range of opponents in the flyweight division. Her ranking inside the top 10 underscores her competitive status.
Other Wins and Performances
Prior to joining the UFC, Cortez achieved success in Invicta FC and regional promotions, including notable wins by decision and submission. Her amateur record was undefeated, setting a strong foundation for her professional career.
Tracy R. Cortez Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
Tracy Cortez comes from a family of Mexican immigrants and grew up in Phoenix, Arizona. Her oldest brother, Jose Cortez, was a significant influence and inspiration in her life and career. His battle with cancer and subsequent passing had a profound impact on her personal and professional development.
Personal Life
Tracy Cortez is engaged to fellow UFC fighter Brian Ortega. She resides in Phoenix, Arizona, where she continues her training and preparation for upcoming fights.
2025 Season Performance
In 2025, Tracy Cortez remained active in the UFC flyweight division, securing a unanimous decision win over Viviane Araújo at UFC 317. She faced a challenging rematch against Erin Blanchfield later in the year, resulting in a submission loss. Throughout the season, Cortez has demonstrated resilience and competitiveness, maintaining her position among the division’s top contenders. Her training with Fight Ready MMA and Neuro Force One continues to support her efforts to improve and contend for higher rankings in future seasons.