Tracy Cortez is set to face Rose Namajunas in what could be the biggest fight of her UFC career on July 13 at the UFC, sources said. Originally, Cortez was set to fight Miranda Maverick on July 20 at new source UFC. But she was brought in to replace Macy Barber, who had to retire due to serious health issues.
Cortez Runs Undefeated
Cortez is currently undefeated in the UFC, ranked 11th in the women’s flyweight division. His victory over No. 6 over Namajun could move her up the rankings and move her closer to the title shot currently held by Alexa Grasso. Let’s explore Cortez’s fighting background and fighting style before this crucial fight against ‘Thug Rose’.
Early Beginnings and Motivations
Tracy Cortez was born in Phoenix, Arizona, and is of Mexican descent. His journey in MMA was marked by his older brother Jose Cortez fighting Drew Fickett in 2008. In an interview, Cortez revealed that his passion for fighting is his brothers father Jose, J.R. and Abraham f, In their amateur wrestling practices.
From Boxing to MMA
“They kept pulling me out of the boxing ring, so just like I wanted to do, I got to stay in the sport for a while when I was younger,” Cortez shared after his brother’s 2008 fight He took her to his gym and introduced her to the sport by wrestling a professional boxer . Despite a rough start, Tracy was undeterred and began his MMA career in 2011 in honor of Jose who passed away from germ cell cancer.
Fighting Style and Skill
Tracy Cortez is known for her relentless pressure and control of the pace of the fight. His expertise in amateur boxing led him to MMA. Fans appreciate his tenacity and technique inside the Octagon.
A Battle in Honor of his Brother
In a recent Instagram post following the announcement of his fight with Namajunas, Cortez paid tribute to his brother, saying, “Before you died, your dream was to make it to the UFC… & in your honor I did.” work & busted my ass to.” make your dream come true bro… of her.” In the middle of the crazy journey I started to realize that I was going to be the best in the world, your dream became mine… July 13th was the biggest fight of my career. .this is for you Jose!” As Cortez steps into the Octagon on July 13, he carries his brother’s legacy and aspirations to make it big in the UFC.
Macy Barber Health Scare
Cortez’s replacement, Macy Barber, recently shared details of serious health issues that forced her to withdraw from the main event at UFC Denver. She ranked fourth in the women’s flyweight division, and in a six-fight win streak, Barbour was a strong title contender.
Barber’s Struggle with Retirement
In a statement on social media, Barber said his health deteriorated after his last fight at UFC 299 in March. Undiagnosed issues put him in the hospital for nine days and he developed pneumonia. Despite repeated courses of antibiotics, his condition did not improve. Barber said, “…for the first 5 minutes of training, I don’t have any of the energy needed to prepare for a 5-round fight.” As a result, his team, doctors and the UFC decided that his physical health needed immediate attention. Barber is eager to return to the Octagon once he is fully recovered.
