Skip to main contentSkip to footer
Tracy Cortez: Rising UFC Star and the Viral Moment That Has Fans Talking© Zuffa LLC

Fans rally behind UFC star Tracy Cortez after Live Stream incident

UFC star faced NSFW messages during a live stream, leaving fans outraged and showing their support for her in the aftermath. 


JANUARY 17, 2025 3:15 PM EST

Tracy Cortez is a name that stands for strength and skill in the UFC. The 30-year-old fighter, who fights in the women’s flyweight division, has gained a loyal fan base thanks to her unbeaten record and her charming personality. However, her recent moment in the spotlight is not just about her fighting—it's a viral moment that has everyone talking online.

Fans rally behind UFC star Tracy Cortez after Live Stream incident© Josh Hedges
Tracy Cortez poses on the scale during the UFC weigh-in at the Sheraton Downtown Denver Hotel on July 12, 2024 in Denver, Colorado.

A moment that went viral: Fans react

UFC fighter Cortez was visibly shocked when her live stream with YouTuber N3on was flooded with explicit and inappropriate messages. The text-to-speech feature was misused to send disturbing comments, making Cortez uncomfortable and surprised. The event quickly drew attention online, sparking outrage from fans who condemned the offensive remarks, labeling them as “diabolical.”

Fans rally behind UFC star Tracy Cortez after Live Stream incident© Mike Roach
Tracy Cortez poses for a portrait during a UFC photo session on July 10, 2024 in Denver, Colorado.

Fans quickly rallied to support Cortez, expressing their anger over the harassment she faced. Many shared messages of solidarity, with one fan saying, “These 'fans' are making a mockery of what should be a fun and respectful interaction. Tracy Cortez is strong, and we all stand with her.” Another criticized those responsible, stating, “What kind of lowlife sends those messages? Tracy is amazing, and this behavior should not be tolerated.” Others commended Cortez’s strength and professionalism, with one remarking, “Sending NSFW messages to a fighter during a live stream is extremely disrespectful. Tracy Cortez is a champ both inside and outside the octagon.”

Fans rally behind UFC star Tracy Cortez after Live Stream incident© Christian Petersen
UFC fighters Tracy Cortez, Sean O'Malley, and Baron Corbin pose with Arizona Cardinals jerseys before the NFL game against the Los Angeles Chargers at State Farm Stadium on October 21, 2024 in Glendale, Arizona. The Cardinals defeated the Chargers 17-15.

This incident shed light on the negative aspects of online interactions while showcasing the strong support and admiration Cortez has from her fans. Despite the unpleasant experience, her supporters stood firmly behind her, reinforcing her status as a role model in and out of the UFC.

Balancing fame and career

Even with her viral popularity, Cortez stays focused on her career. She wants to not only compete but also excel in the flyweight division. With an unbeaten record in the UFC, many experts think she's on track for a title shot. “Every fight is a step closer to my goal,” Cortez mentioned in a recent interview.

Fans rally behind UFC star Tracy Cortez after Live Stream incident© Zuffa LLC via Getty Images
Tracy Cortez interacts with fans during a Q&A session prior to the UFC Fight Night ceremonial weigh-in at CDMX Arena on February 23, 2024 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Mike Roach/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)

From humble beginnings to UFC stardom

Tracy Cortez's journey to the UFC is truly inspiring. Growing up in Phoenix, Arizona, she was introduced to combat sports by her brothers, especially her late brother José, who dreamed of becoming a professional MMA fighter before passing away from cancer. His memory continues to motivate her, and she often credits him as her biggest inspiration. Proud of her Mexican heritage, Cortez embraces her Latino roots, using them as a source of strength throughout her career. 

Fans rally behind UFC star Tracy Cortez after Live Stream incident© Zuffa LLC
PHOENIX, ARIZONA - MAY 07: Tracy Cortez has her hands wrapped prior to her fight during the UFC 274 event at Footprint Center on May 07, 2022 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Zuffa LLC)

Since her debut in 2017, she has risen through the ranks with sharp striking, solid grappling, and unwavering determination, positioning herself as one of the top contenders in her division. Her cultural background has greatly influenced her work ethic, making her a role model for aspiring fighters, particularly in the Latino community.

© ¡HOLA! Reproduction of this article and its photographs in whole or in part is prohibited, even when citing their source.