Mexican · Guadalajara, Mexico · Born 9 August 1993Mexican flyweight who upset Valentina Shevchenko in 2023 for the title, later lost it back to her in 2024.
Karen Alexa Grasso Montes was born on 9 August 1993 in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, and learned shadow boxing from her father, Luis, before being formally introduced to fighting by her uncle, professional boxer and MMA competitor Francisco "Pancho" Grasso, who remains her head coach at the family-run Lobo Gym. 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
Mexican Athletes