Richest female UFC fighter: The UFC is a top global mixed martial arts (MMA) organization. Known for its elite fighters, diverse weight classes, and distinctive Octagon cage, the UFC has propelled MMA into mainstream popularity. With high production quality, competitive matchups, and global fan support, it’s a significant force in the world of sports.
Even in the tough sport of mixed martial arts, some stunning women are also fighters. These ladies, in my opinion, are some of the hottest fighters in UFC.
Top Richest Female UFC Fighter 2023
Ronda Rousey: First Richest female UFC fighter
Ronda Rousey stands out as a trailblazing figure in the world of mixed martial arts (MMA). Recognized as a pioneer, she was the first woman to join the UFC, making waves and bringing women’s MMA into the spotlight. With a track record of 12 wins and 2 losses, Rousey’s dominance in the octagon was a key factor in popularizing the sport among both men and women.
Beyond her MMA success, Rousey has seamlessly transitioned into professional wrestling and acting. Her star power extends to Hollywood, where she’s graced the screens of blockbuster movies such as The Expendables 3, Entourage, and Fast & Furious 7. Her charisma isn’t confined to the ring or the big screen—she’s also been a face for major brands like Reebok, Carl’s Jr., and MetroPCS.
Rousey’s journey isn’t just about victories; it’s about breaking barriers and redefining what’s possible for female athletes. From the octagon to the squared circle and the silver screen, Ronda Rousey continues to make an indelible mark on the world of sports and entertainment.
| @rondarousey | |
| Net-Worth | $14 Million |
Even though she never stepped into the UFC arena, Gina “Crush” Carano’s achievements as a fighter are so noteworthy that we couldn’t pass up including her on this list.
Gina “Crush” Carano kicked off her combat journey in Muay Thai, boasting a stellar 12-1-1 record before making a move to MMA in 2006. Two knockout victories caught the attention of Strikeforce, leading to her joining the promotion.
With a flawless 7-0 run, Carano faced Cris Cyborg in the first-ever high-profile televised female MMA fight in 2009, unfortunately ending in defeat. Her 7-1 record marked the end of her MMA career, but it opened doors to Hollywood. Carano’s striking looks and martial arts background paved the way for an acting career, featuring in blockbuster films like Fast & Furious 6, Deadpool, and Star Wars: The Mandalorian since her retirement.
| @ginrajcarano | |
| Net-Worth | $5 Million |
Cristiane “Cyborg” Justino: Third Richest female UFC fighter
Cristiane “Cyborg” Justino stands tall as one of the most formidable female fighters in MMA history. Emerging from Brazil, she burst onto the scene with an impressive streak, conquering her first 12 bouts. Her journey continued in the US with Strikeforce, where she clinched the Women’s Featherweight Championship, solidifying her dominance.
Venturing into the UFC and Bellator, Justino’s record boasts 23 victories against 2 losses, showcasing her prowess in the cage. Beyond her fighting skills, she’s made her mark as a brand ambassador, aligning with major names like Reebok, Budweiser, and Monster Energy.
Justino’s story isn’t just about wins and losses; it’s a testament to resilience and skill that has left an indelible mark on the MMA landscape. From Brazil to the global stage, Cyborg’s legacy extends beyond the octagon, making her a force both inside and outside the ring.
| @criscyborg | |
| Net-Worth | $5 Million |
Paige VanZant: Fourth Richest female UFC fighter
Paige VanZant stood out as one of the UFC’s most well-liked fighters. As a teenager in Oregon, she unexpectedly found Ken Shamrock’s MMA gym while originally searching for a dance studio.
She started her journey by training in boxing and jiu-jitsu, stepping into her first amateur fight at the age of 18. In 2013, the UFC welcomed VanZant into their newly established strawweight division.
Beyond the fighting arena, VanZant’s looks and skills opened doors for her, leading to appearances on shows like Chopped and Dancing with the Stars. She also ventured into modeling for renowned brands like Nike and Columbia Sportswear, even gracing the pages of the 2019 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue.
| @paigevanzant | |
| Net-Worth | $3 Million |
Michelle Waterson: Fifth Richest female UFC fighter
Before becoming known as “The Karate Hottie,” Michelle Waterson initially pursued a career in modeling. However, in 2007, she took a significant turn in her professional journey.
Having been an athlete from a young age, Waterson began training in karate at the age of 10, eventually achieving a black belt. Her breakthrough moment came in 2007 when she gained recognition through her appearance on Fight Girls, a reality show documenting the paths of kickboxers competing for world championships.
Following her stint on the show and achieving a 4-2 MMA record, Waterson progressed in her career by joining Strikeforce in 2008. After participating in four fights with Invicta FC, the UFC welcomed “The Karate Hottie” in 2015.
Notably, Waterson has successfully balanced her modeling career with MMA, making appearances in various TV shows and photoshoots since turning professional. In 2017.
| @karatehottiemma | |
| Net-Worth | Approx $1 Million |
Mackenzie Dern: Sixth Richest female UFC fighter
Mackenzie Dern, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu expert, holds an impressive record with over 20 gold medals in global BJJ competitions. Surprisingly, she didn’t step into the MMA scene until 2016.
Starting her journey in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at the age of 3 under the guidance of her black belt father and stepmother, Mackenzie Dern showcased remarkable skill, earning her own black belt at the young age of 19.
Her UFC debut in 2018 saw a victory against Ashley Yoder at UFC 222 via a split decision. With an impressive MMA record of 8-1, Dern has proven her prowess in the octagon.
In 2019, Dern embraced a new role as a mother, welcoming her first child with Brazilian professional surfer Wesley Santos.
| @mackenziedern | |
| Net-Worth | $1 million |
Miesha Tate: Seventh Richest female UFC fighter
Miesha “Cupcake” Tate stands out as one of the most resilient fighters in the octagon. The former champion in both UFC and Strikeforce has a remarkable MMA journey, not just within the cage but also beyond.
Her roots in combat sports trace back to Franklin Pierce High School, where she excelled as a wrestler, clinching a state championship in 2005. Fueled by her passion for grappling, Tate ventured into the world of MMA, marking the beginning of her career in 2007.
In 2016, Miesha Tate claimed the UFC Bantamweight championship by securing a victory over Holly Holm with a rear-naked choke. Although she later lost the title to Amanda Nunes the same year, her journey took another turn when she retired in November after facing Raquel Pennington at UFC 205.
Presently, Miesha Tate serves as the Vice President for ONE Championship in Singapore, residing there with her family.
| @mieshatate | |
| Net-Worth | $8 Million |
Tracy Cortez: Eighth Richest female UFC fighter
Tracy Cortez found her passion for MMA at the age of 14, inspired by her older brother Jose’s victory over UFC veteran Drew Fickett. Right after the fight, Jose introduced Tracy to his training gym in Phoenix, AZ, where she was promptly placed in the ring with a professional boxer.
Undeterred by the challenges, Tracy Cortez has emerged as a proud member of the UFC roster, showcasing an impressive 7-1 record. At a youthful 26 years old, and with just 8 professional fights, she’s still early in her MMA journey. While opportunities beyond the cage are yet to fully unfold, her captivating looks and promising martial arts skills position her as a potential rising star in the making.
| @cortezmma | |
| Net-Worth | $4.5 Million |
Rachael Ostovich: NinthRichest female UFC fighter
Rachael Ostovich, a Hawaiian flyweight, entered the professional scene in January 2014, facing a TKO loss in the 2nd round of her debut. Undeterred, she persevered and secured a place on The Ultimate Fighter 26. Though she won her opening fight with a rear naked choke, a unanimous decision loss in the quarterfinals led to her elimination.
Following her appearance on the show, Ostovich earned a spot in the UFC, currently holding a 1-2 record, including a matchup against Paige VanZant. In early 2020, she faced a setback when she tested positive for Ostarine due to a tainted supplement, resulting in an eight-month suspension by USADA.
Despite the setback, Ostovich showcased her charisma on “Dana White: Lookin’ For a Fight – Honolulu,” stealing the spotlight as she guided the UFC president around Hawaii.
| @rachaelostovich | |
| Net-Worth | $1.4 Million |
Joanna Jedrzejczyk: Tenth Richest female UFC fighter
Joanna Jedrzejczyk, a legend in the strawweight division, remains among the elite pound-for-pound fighters globally.
Her journey began at the age of 16 when she delved into Muay Thai. Over the years, she not only participated in national tournaments but also engaged in professional bouts. Before transitioning to MMA, Jedrzejczyk amassed an impressive record, securing over 60 victories during her ten-year career in Muay Thai and kickboxing.
The accomplished Polish mixed martial artist clinched the UFC Strawweight Championship in 2015, delivering a dominant performance against Carla Esparza. She successfully defended her title five times but faced her first professional MMA loss to Rose Namajunas at UFC 217.
In a more recent highlight, Jedrzejczyk engaged in an epic battle with the current strawweight champion, Zhang Weili, marking one of the greatest female fights in the sport’s history.
| @joannajedrzejczyk | |
| Net-Worth | $4 Million |
Amanda Ribas: Richest female UFC fighter
In 2020, Amanda Ribas endeared herself to the MMA community with a standout performance, securing a first-round armbar victory over Paige VanZant at UFC 251.
Recognized for her vibrant personality, Ribas has emerged as a serious contender in the flyweight division. With a record of 10-1 and seven finishes, the Brazilian fighter boasts a black belt in both Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Judo.
Her father, Marcelo Ribas, is a jiu-jitsu, Muay Thai, and judo instructor. Because of this, Ribas has been training in martial arts for the majority of her life.
| @amandaufcribas | |
| Net-Worth | $1 Millon |
Conclusion
The article highlights the achievements of prominent female UFC fighters, emphasizing their success in and outside the octagon. Pioneers like Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano made significant impacts, while fighters like Cristiane “Cyborg” Justino, Paige VanZant, and Michelle Waterson showcased versatility in entertainment and modeling. Emerging talents like Mackenzie Dern, Tracy Cortez, and Amanda Ribas are recognized, and legends like Miesha Tate and Joanna Jedrzejczyk are celebrated for their contributions to the sport. Overall, the article provides a snapshot of these women’s diverse journeys and accomplishments in MMA and beyond.
