Carla Esparza, one of the most celebrated names in women’s mixed martial arts (MMA), made history as the first-ever UFC women’s strawweight champion. Known for her exceptional wrestling and determination, she has competed against the top fighters in the sport. In 2024, after an illustrious career, Esparza announced her retirement following a hard-fought battle against Tecia Pennington at UFC 307.
Her journey from a young fighter to a pioneer of women’s MMA is inspiring. From capturing championships to facing life’s challenges outside the octagon, Esparza remains a beloved figure among MMA fans. Her legacy as a fighter, trailblazer, and champion continues to inspire many.
Key Takeaways
- Carla Esparza was the first UFC women’s strawweight champion.
- Her professional record stands at 20 wins and 8 losses.
- Esparza announced her retirement in 2024 after a close loss to Tecia Pennington at UFC 307.
- She is known for her wrestling skills, high takedown accuracy, and relentless fighting style.
- Esparza is married to Matthew Lomeli and welcomed her first child in 2023.
Carla Esparza – The First UFC Women’s Strawweight Champion
Carla Esparza made history by becoming the first-ever UFC women’s strawweight champion in 2014. Her victory against Rose Namajunas in "The Ultimate Fighter" finale cemented her place in UFC history. Esparza’s background in wrestling became her signature fighting style, as she utilized takedowns and ground control to dominate her opponents.
Esparza’s early career saw her compete in several organizations, including Invicta FC, where she also won the strawweight title. This paved the way for her success in the UFC, where she fought and defeated top contenders like Marina Rodriguez and Michelle Waterson.
Carla Esparza’s Impressive MMA Record
With a professional MMA record of 20 wins and 8 losses, Carla Esparza faced some of the toughest fighters in the sport. Her fighting style, characterized by her strong wrestling base and ground-and-pound techniques, helped her secure victories in many high-stakes matches.
Some of her most notable victories include wins over Rose Namajunas, the current UFC strawweight champion, and top-ranked fighters like Marina Rodriguez. Esparza’s ability to consistently perform at the highest level, despite facing numerous challenges, has earned her the respect of both fans and her peers.
| Carla Esparza’s MMA Career Stats | Details |
|---|---|
| Wins | 20 |
| Losses | 8 |
| Takedown Accuracy | High |
| Notable Wins | Rose Namajunas, Marina Rodriguez |
| Championships | UFC Strawweight, Invicta FC Strawweight |
Carla Esparza’s Personal Life and Family
Beyond the octagon, Carla Esparza has a fulfilling personal life. She married Matthew Lomeli, and in September 2023, the couple welcomed their first child, Donovan. Balancing her career as a fighter and her role as a new mother is just another testament to her resilience and dedication.
Despite the challenges of being a professional athlete, Esparza has maintained a close-knit relationship with her family. Her husband, a doctor, has been a constant support throughout her career, and their journey into parenthood marks a new chapter in Esparza’s life.
Where to Find More Information on Carla Esparza’s Career
For fans looking to dive deeper into Carla Esparza’s MMA career, platforms like Sherdog and Tapology offer comprehensive details about her fight history, rankings, and statistics. Sherdog provides biographical details and breakdowns of her wins and losses, while Tapology keeps fans updated with detailed fight records, rankings, and upcoming events.
Esparza’s stats on these platforms showcase her incredible takedown accuracy and dominance in the octagon. Her wrestling background has always been her strongest asset, making her one of the most well-rounded fighters in the strawweight division.
Carla Esparza’s Legacy in MMA
Carla Esparza’s legacy in MMA is not just defined by her victories or championships, but also by the path she paved for future generations of women fighters. As the first UFC women’s strawweight champion, she opened doors for other women to compete on the biggest stage in the world of mixed martial arts.
Her grit, determination, and sportsmanship have left a lasting impact on the sport. Even in retirement, her contributions to MMA will continue to inspire young athletes who dream of competing at the highest level.
FAQ
When did Carla Esparza retire?
Carla Esparza retired in 2024 after her fight against Tecia Pennington at UFC 307.
What is Carla Esparza’s professional MMA record?
Carla Esparza’s professional MMA record stands at 20 wins and 8 losses.
Who is Carla Esparza’s husband?
Carla Esparza is married to Matthew Lomeli, and they welcomed their first child, Donovan, in September 2023.
Where can I find Carla Esparza’s fight stats?
You can find detailed information about Carla Esparza’s fight history and stats on MMA databases like Sherdog and Tapology.
What are Carla Esparza’s notable achievements?
Carla Esparza is known for being the first-ever UFC women’s strawweight champion. She also held the Invicta FC strawweight title and has notable victories against fighters like Rose Namajunas and Marina Rodriguez.
How many takedowns does Carla Esparza have in her career?
Carla Esparza is known for her wrestling skills and has a high number of successful takedowns throughout her career. She is one of the most effective wrestlers in the UFC’s strawweight division.
What’s next for Carla Esparza after retirement?
While Carla Esparza has retired from MMA, she is focused on her family life with her husband, Matthew, and their son, Donovan. She may still remain involved in the sport through coaching or other MMA-related endeavors.