American · East Los Angeles, USA · Born 10 October 1987Carla Esparza is a two-time former UFC Women's Strawweight Champion and accomplished collegiate wrestler.
Carla Kristen Esparza was born on 10 October 1987 in Torrance, California, and developed a wrestling background through the NAIA collegiate ranks before turning to mixed martial arts in 2010, training with Team Oyama in Irvine, California. Esparza, nicknamed "Cookie Monster," became the inaugural UFC Women's Strawweight Champion in 2014, defeating Rose Namajunas in the finale of The Ultimate Fighter reality show to claim the title in the division's first-ever crowning. Esparza lost the title in her first defence but rebuilt her career over the following years, winning the championship for a second time in 2022 with a decision victory over Rose Namajunas in a rematch of their original title fight, becoming a two-time strawweight champion. Esparza retired from professional competition in 2024 having earned recognition as one of the pioneering champions of the UFC's women's divisions, her wrestling-based style and toughness having helped establish the credibility of the strawweight class in its formative years.
First-ever UFC Women's Strawweight Champion
How They Played
Esparza is known for her strong wrestling background and grappling skills, often utilizing takedowns to control opponents on the ground. She employs a grinding, pressure-heavy style that wears down opponents through positional control and ground-and-pound. Her cardio and determination allow her to maintain a high pace throughout fights.
Lasting Impact
Esparza holds the distinction of being the first champion in the UFC's strawweight division, helping establish the weight class in women's MMA.
Career Honours
- First UFC Women's Strawweight Champion 2014
- UFC Women's Strawweight Champion again 2022
- first Invicta FC Strawweight Champion
American Athletes