After more than a decade of making history in the octagon, Carla Esparza, one of the most decorated fighters in mixed martial arts (MMA), has decided to end her career. A fierce competitor with unmatched fighting skills, a relentless tenacity and a never-say-die attitude, Esparza has left an indelible legacy in the UFC’s strawweight division.
Her career was a roller coaster ride of exciting wins, tough losses and career-defining moments, making her not only a champion, but a true pioneer of women’s MMA.
Highlights
Carla Esparza burst onto the MMA scene in 2010, and quickly rose to prominence thanks to her dominant wrestling-based style.
After a successful stint with Bellator and Invicta, she joined the inaugural season of The Ultimate Fighter, a reality show that sought to crown the UFC’s first female strawweight champion.
Esparza shined during the tournament, and in the final she faced Rose Namajunas, where she showed her superior wrestling skills by defeating her by submission (lion killer).
In December 2014, she made history by becoming the UFC’s first female strawweight champion, cementing her legacy as a pioneer in the division.
Although she lost the title in her first defense against Joanna Jędrzejczyk, Esparza remained a top contender throughout her career.
She achieved notable victories over elite fighters such as Cynthia Calvillo, Michelle Waterson and Marina Rodriguez.
However, the highlight of his resurgence came in May 2022, when he faced Namajunas for the second time at UFC 274.
In a hard-fought, albeit slow-paced battle, Esparza regained the strawweight title, becoming the first woman to regain the belt in the division.
Final Fight and Withdrawal Decision
In November 2022, Esparza entered the octagon for the first of her final two fights, defending her title against the formidable Zhang Weili at UFC 281.
At the time, Zhang was widely considered one of the most dangerous competitors in the division.
Despite Esparza’s best effort, she was outclassed by Zhang’s versatile skill set and lost by submission (lion killer) in the second round.
This defeat ended her second reign as strawweight champion and would mark her last appearance inside the octagon.
In August 2024, the two-time champion confirmed via her Instagram both her upcoming fight against Tecia Pennington at UFC 307 and her “retirement from MMA.”
He cited his desire to focus on his family and his evolving personal goals as the main reasons behind his decision.
This announcement came after Esparza had been away from the competition for some time, which also coincided with her pregnancy.
The time seemed right for him to make the transition to a new stage in his life, after having achieved so much in the sport.
Post-Retreat Plans
Esparza’s post-retirement life will focus on her personal and family life, especially her new role as a mother.
He has expressed his excitement about starting a family, which played an important role in his decision to retire.
Beyond family, Esparza has hinted that she may remain connected to the MMA world in some way, whether through coaching, narrating fights or mentoring new talent.
His vast experience and knowledge can be a valuable resource for the next generation of athletes.
Personal Life
Throughout her career, Esparza was known not only for her wrestling skills, but also for her humility, professionalism and hard-working attitude.
Outside of the octagon, he has a passion for food and travel, and often shares his culinary adventures on social media.
Esparza married his longtime partner in May 2022, just days after regaining the UFC strawweight title, marking one of the most significant periods of his life.
Legacy
Carla Esparza’s legacy in MMA is one of perseverance, determination and great historical significance.
As the first UFC strawweight champion and the first woman to regain the title in that division, she will be remembered as a pioneer who helped shape women’s MMA.
His wrestling prowess, combined with his ability to overcome adversity, earned him the nickname “The Cookie Monster,” a reference to his ferocity in the cage.
Esparza’s longevity in the sport and his ability to compete at the highest level for so many years is a testament to his work ethic and love for MMA.
Although his last fight did not end in victory, his career was filled with monumental achievements that have left his name etched in MMA history.
In short, Carla Esparza’s retirement marks the end of an extraordinary chapter in MMA.
Her decision to step away from the sport reflects both her personal and professional growth, leaving a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations of female fighters.
