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Tracy Cortez is an exciting prospect in the UFC's flyweight division. The 29-year-old lost her first MMA bout via submission but has since gone on to win every one of her fights. Her record now stands at 10-1, following her unanimous decision win over Melissa Gato at UFC 274.
Born in Phoenix, Arizona, United States, Tracy Cortez is of Mexican descent and was raised with her three brothers. She began training in MMA at the age of 14 after watching her older brother Jose win via split decision against UFC veteran Drew Fickett. Jose's dream was to compete in the UFC, but he had to stop after he developed cardiovascular problems. He was diagnosed with germ cell cancer and passed away in 2011.
Tracy Cortez struggled with depression after her brother's passing but managed to revive her spirit with the help of her family. Former two-division UFC champion Henry Cejudo, a close friend of her brother Jose, also had a big part to play in getting Cortez back on track.
Tracy Cortez sports a tattoo of her brother on her left arm in memory of the man who introduced her to MMA and taught her how to fight through anything.
Tracy Cortez's journey to the UFC
Cortez won the flyweight championship at the amateur MMA promotion Tuff-N-Uff. She then began her pro career with the Invicta Fighting Championships and World Fighting Federation before appearing on 'Dana White's Tuesday Night Contender Series'. The Arizona native beat Mariya Agapova by unanimous decision and was subsequently signed by the UFC.
All her wins in the UFC so far have come via decision, and even though she's competed in both bantamweight and flyweight decisions, Cortez is still chasing her first stoppage victory. Like many other fighters, Cortez is also chasing her first bonus.
The Arizona native moved down to flyweight for her UFC Vegas 24 fight against Justine Kish. Her win over Melissa Gato has extended her career-winning streak to 10. If the 29-year-old can keep the winning streak up and pull off a few impressive finishes, she could make for a very exciting contender in the division. It's important to mention that coach Angel Cejudo, brother of Henry Cejudo, is a mainstay in Cortez's corner.
Cortez is set to make a comeback against Jasmine Jasudavicius on the preliminary card of UFC Fight Night 227. The event has been scheduled to celebrate Mexican Independence Day and features several Mexican-origin fighters along with Tracy Cortez.
