Brian Ortega and Tracy Cortez: A Deep Dive into Their Relationship

By Ali Hammad September 09, 2024 07:04

Photo by Imago

A native of Los Angeles, Ortega has grown to become a star in UFC's featherweight division. He is known for his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) skills, boasting a 4th-degree black belt under Roberto Traven and has won numerous world championships and ADCC tournaments, considered the two most prestigious grappling competitions. Ortega has twice fought for the UFC Featherweight Championship, challenging champions Max Holloway and Alexander Volkanovski throughout his budding UFC career.

Meanwhile, Tracy Cortez is a rising star in the ranks of the UFC Flyweight division. Cortez came to the UFC in 2019 and has reeled off three straight wins, a track record that leads her team at Factory X Westminster Fight & Fitness gym to believe she could be destined for big things in her division. For her, the journey toward becoming a prominent figure in MMA isn't just about self-fulfillment; it's also an ode to her late brother, who is why she started her journey as a fighter in the first place.

Relationship Timeline

They were very vocal about their relationship and would post pictures of each other and stand up for one another when in battle. Ortega even got Cortez's name tattooed on his lips, and the couple reportedly bought a house together, showing they intended to take their relationship seriously. But even though they seemed happy together, the couple broke up in early 2023.

Public Perception

Fans and media alike took very well to the couple of Brian Ortega and Tracy Cortez, dubbing them a "UFC power couple". Their public displays of affection and mutual encouragement in defeat have won over MMA fans. Fans had also become fascinated with their breakup, what caused it, and the back-and-forth on social media between them.

Impact on Careers

Training and Performance

Initially, their relationship seemed to work well for both of their careers. Their mutual emotional support probably contributed to their success in the octagon. That in itself is important because a support system is imperative for athletes competing at such high levels.

Public Image

Their relationship, of being a part of the power couple in the limelight, inevitably colored their public persona. They were considered the epitome of a UFC power couple, juggling marriage and career. However, the public nature of their breakup and the subsequent social media posts may negatively affect how fans see them, with some taking sides or expressing sadness about their eventual split.

The dynamic between Brian Ortega and Tracy Cortez was an intriguing storyline in the MMA world, a story that showed the push-and-pull between personal relationships and high-stakes professional lives, especially in front of audiences.

For now, Ortega and Cortez are still employed by the UFC, providing fans with hope amid uncertain times for both fighters. While their time together is over, it will continue to be a huge part of their personal and professional journeys.