One cannot tell Tracy Cortez’s story of success without recalling the most painful chapter of her life. From an early age, she was captivated by martial arts after watching her older brother Jose compete in tournaments. Together they dreamed of becoming UFC fighters, but in 2011 Jose lost his battle with cancer. His passing pushed Tracy to look inward, reflect on her path, and decide how to carry their shared dream forward.
Born in Phoenix, Arizona, Tracy Cortez is the daughter of Mexican parents. At 14, she began training in martial arts after being inspired by her brother’s fights. His death left her in a deep depression, pulling her away from sports and from the things she once loved. With the support of family and friends, Tracy found the strength to move forward. Brothers Henry and Angel Cejudo played a key role in her recovery, guiding her back into the world of fighting despite the adversity she faced. It was then that Tracy chose to pursue the dream she had once shared with her brother and make it her own.
"Every time I feel tired or I feel fatigued, or I question anything, I think, like, damn, my brother fought with cancer in his heart and he didn't give up. He fought through it. I'm perfectly healthy. I'm more than capable to do what I'm doing. This is easy work. That's a huge motivator for me."
Tracy began her career fighting in the World Fighting Federation and KOTC, where she started to build her name. She later joined Invicta Fighting Championships and made her debut in March 2017. In November 2019 she reached the UFC. Her first scheduled fight was against Duda Santana, but she had to step back for personal reasons and was replaced by Vanessa Melo.
Today, at 31, Tracy Cortez holds a professional record of 13 wins and two losses. She has earned victories through one knockout, one submission, and nine decisions, showing her strength and consistency in the octagon. These results have placed her among the top ten fighters in the women’s Flyweight division.
“Be a woman of high value. Work, study, run after things, believe in yourself and make it happen. Many will say that it was luck, but only you know how far you have traveled... and you did it all with that little smile on your face.”
Outside the octagon, Tracy has also built a strong presence as an influencer, creating content that keeps her connected with her followers. Through social media, she has partnered with brands and given fans a closer look at the UFC world, sharing her training, fight preparations, and life beyond the ring.
Tracy is proof that the fight does not end when life delivers its hardest blows. She inspires both women and men to chase their dreams, regardless of doubts or criticism. In the end, what really matters is staying true to yourself and finding happiness in what you do every day.