Mexican flyweight who upset Valentina Shevchenko in 2023 for the title, later lost it back to her in 2024.
In March 2023, Alexa Grasso submitted Valentina Shevchenko — the most dominant women's champion in UFC history — via face-crank to become the first Mexican-born woman ever to win a UFC title, one of the most significant upsets in the promotion's women's divisions. Grasso made her professional MMA debut in December 2012 with a 15-second knockout, and went undefeated through her early career with Invicta FC before joining the UFC, developing into one of the most technically sound strikers in the women's strawweight and flyweight divisions. Grasso delivered a historic upset in March 2023, submitting long-reigning champion Valentina Shevchenko via face-crank to win the UFC Women's Flyweight Championship, becoming the first Mexican-born woman ever to win a UFC title. Grasso has continued competing at the top of the flyweight division, also working as a UFC analyst for Spanish-language broadcasts, and remains one of the most influential figures in the growth of women's MMA in Mexico and Latin America.
First Mexican UFC champion
How They Played
Grasso combines excellent boxing fundamentals with improved grappling skills, showcasing clean striking technique and solid defensive wrestling. Her striking features crisp combinations and good movement, while her ground game has evolved significantly to include dangerous submission threats from various positions.
Lasting Impact
Grasso broke barriers as the first Mexican woman to capture UFC gold, inspiring a new generation of female fighters in Mexico and Latin America.
Career Honours
- UFC Women's Flyweight Champion 2023-2024