Former UFC strawweight champion Rose Namjunas is set to face Tracy Cortez in the UFC Denver main event. Namjunas, who recently moved up to the 125-pound flyweight division, is eager to prove herself in a tough decision split loss to Carla Esparza. This fight is a major opportunity for both fighters, not only in rank but also financially.
Travels and Inspirations of the Namajuna
Namajunas first became Champion seven years ago when she defeated Joanna Jedrzejczyk at UFC 217. She cemented her superstar status with her second victory over Zhang Weily, whom she has defeated twice . However, his transition to the flyweight division has been a challenge, as he lost his first fight against Manon Fiorot.
Namajunas now faces lowly opponent #11 Tracy Cortez. This fight is crucial for Namajun as he aims to rise to the top of his new division. A win would not only boost his status but also move him closer to a title shot.
Tracy Cortez Background and Driving
Tracy Cortez’s journey in martial arts began after the tragic death of her older brother Jose, an aspiring UFC fighter. Training under Angel Cejudo and his brother, two-division UFC champion Henry Cejudo, Cortez has dedicated his career to his late brother and mother.
Cortez has proven to be a formidable fighter, with only one loss in her MMA debut in 2017. A win over Namajunas would be the biggest win of her career, raising her popularity and it’s moved him into the top five competitors in the division and greatly increasing his salary.
Financial Statements for Tracy Cortez
While exact figures for Cortez’s payment to Namajunas were not disclosed, it is expected to be a substantial increase on his past earnings. In his last fight, he earned about $85k, including show money, victory bonuses, and other bonuses. Cortez’s cleanup to headline UFC Denver is expected to range from $50k to $100k, which could be a similar win bonus if she beats Namajunas.
Money Available to Rose Namjunas
Namajunas aims to become a two-division champion in the UFC. Currently ranked #6 in the flyweight division, he is under tremendous pressure to perform well. A win over Cortez would solidify his path to the title, while a loss could severely affect his title aspirations.
Regardless of the outcome of the fight, Namajun stands to gain financially. His fight against Cortez could earn him $250k to $300k in show money. This is an increase of the $225k he won for his fight against Manon Fiorot. Namajunah, who headlines the event, ensures a rewarding payday, highlighting the huge stakes in this pageant.
Title Wishes and Future Prospects
Namajunas’ goal is to get a title shot in the flyweight division. Now, champion Alexa Grasso is preparing for a three-fight clash against former champion Valentina Shevchenko. Namajunas’ victory over Cortez moves her closer to a title shot, and she may need just one or two more wins over top-five opponents.
The UFC Denver main event between Rose Namajunas and Tracy Cortez is more than just a fight; It’s a pivotal moment in both fighters’ careers. With significant cash prizes and an implied ranking on the line, Namajunas and Cortez are poised to deliver a tough and memorable fight.
