A Fighter With Two Passions
In the rugged world of mixed martial arts (MMA), Michelle Casamayorstands out for more than just her impressive fighting skills. Known as “La Barbie,” this Venezuelan fighter has successfully combined two seemingly opposite passions (modeling and MMA) into a career that is as innovative as it is inspiring. Now based in Medellin, Michelle is carving a unique path, breaking stereotypes and proving that femininity and strength can coexist in the octagon.
Her journey to this point has been anything but ordinary. Michelle began training in martial arts when she was just three years old, guided by her parents, both accomplished martial arts instructors. Growing up surrounded by judo, wrestling, sambo and jiu-jitsu in Venezuela, Michelle was destined for a life in combat sports. However, like many Venezuelans, she sought a better life abroad and eight years ago found herself in Medellin, a city that has since become her home.
Finding her true path in Medellin
It wasn’t until four years ago that Michelle decided to return to her martial arts roots and get back into mixed martial arts. Before that, she worked various jobs around town, trying to make ends meet, but her passion for combat sports was too strong. “I realized this was my true passion, what I was meant to do,” Michelle recalls. Since then, she has become one of Colombia’s most admired fighters, representing Medellín with pride and determination.
Her nickname, “Barbie“, reflects her commitment to staying true to her identity as a woman in a male-dominated sport.
I wanted to show that women don’t have to fit the typical fighter mold. You can be strong, aggressive and still maintain your femininity.” explains Michelle. “Not every female fighter has to have a muscular, masculine body. We can bring our own style to the ring, no matter what it is. “
Breaking stereotypes, one fighter at a time
Michelle Casamayor is changing the way female fighters are perceived in Colombia’s MMA scene. Known as “La Barbie,” she defies typical expectations of women in combat sports by fusing her passion for fashion with her athletic prowess. Whether she’s in the cage or preparing for a fight, Michelle brings her own style and talent, proving that women don’t have to conform to a rigid image to be taken seriously in the sport.
Like UFC star Marlon “Chito” Vera, who recently shocked the world by walking the runway at New York Fashion Week, Michelle proves that athletes can successfully bridge the worlds of sports and fashion, breaking boundaries in both arenas.
For Michelle, Mixed Martial Arts is more than just a competition: it’s a way to express her individuality. She makes sure her personality shines through from the weigh-in to the final bell, earning respect for her skills and hard work rather than simply defying stereotypes. His approach reflects Chito Vera’s impact beyond UFC, as he combines his fighting career with a growing influence on global culture. Just as Vera made headlines with her appearance in Willy Chavarria’s “America” collection, Michelle continues to redefine what it means to be a fighter, balancing femininity and ferocity while inspiring others to do the same.
A confrontation at FFC 82
This Friday 4 October, Michelle Casamayor faces a new challenge at FFC 82 Matchmaker 6 in Bogota, taking on local jiu-jitsu specialist Alison Vargas. The fight is expected to be one of the highlights of the event, as these two talented women collide in a highly anticipated contest. For Michelle, this is more than just a physical battle: it’s another opportunity to prove she belongs in the MMA world, as she continues to solidify her reputation as one of Colombia’s rising stars.
“I respect all my opponents,” Michelle said. “I never underestimate anyone and I’m always ready for whatever happens in the cage. My goal is to do my best and come out with the win.”
She has studied Vargas’ techniques in depth and feels confident in her preparation, but remains aware of the unpredictable nature of the sport. For Michelle, it’s not just about getting another win, but proving her worth as a fighter on the rise.
Alison Vargas, also known as “Mind” o “Alimaña“, brings her own fierce determination to this fight. At 27, the Bogota native has built a solid foundation in jiu-jitsu and is eager to showcase her skills on her home turf. With a recent string of victories, including a submission victory at the IMMAF 2023 Pan American Championships, Alison is hungry for another win. As she takes on Michelle, fans will be in for an exciting battle between two women with different styles, but the same desire to dominate.
The fight between Michelle and Alison is also symbolic and represents the growing presence of women in a sport that has historically been slow to accept female fighters. It is an opportunity for both women to demonstrate their skills and determination in front of a passionate Colombian audience.
The road ahead for Michelle Casamayor
At 28 years old, Michelle’s career is just beginning. With an undefeated amateur record of 5-0-0she has already proven herself to be a formidable fighter. Her success on the Colombian mixed martial arts circuit, combined with her unique approach to the sport, has made her a standout. And with her solid background in jiu-jitsu and her ties to Colombian Mixed Martial Arts, she is poised for even greater achievements.
Michelle’s journey from Venezuela to Medellin is a powerful example of perseverance, talent and relentless dedication to her dreams. As she rises through the MMA ranks, she is becoming a beacon of inspiration for a new generation of fighters, particularly women, who admire her ability to balance toughness with grace.
Fighter Profile: Michelle Casamayor
Nickname: La Barbie
Age: 28
Height: 5’9″ (174 cm)
Reach: 67.3″ (171 cm)
Weight Class: Flyweight
Record: 5-0-0 (MMA Amateur)
Affiliation: MMA Colombia
Base Style: Jiu-Jitsu
Fighting For: Medellín
Fighter Profile: Alison Vargas
Nickname: Mente / Alimaña
Age: 27 (December 27, 1996)
Height: 5’2″ (157.48 cm)
Reach: 62.8″ (159.5 cm)
Weight Class: Strawweight
Record: 5-1-0 (Amateur MMA)
Affiliation: Corporal Studio
Base Style: Jiu-Jitsu
Fighting For: Bogotá
Upcoming Fight: FFC 82 Matchmaker 6 October 4, 2024
Michelle Casamayor is not just a fighter; she is a trailblazer, challenging the norms and proving that women can be fierce and anything in the world of MMA. When she steps into the cage this Friday, all eyes will be on her as she continues to break boundaries and build her legacy in the sport.
