Breaking: Tracy Cortez Set for Octagon Return at International Fight Week 2025

The UFC just dropped some exciting news for fight fans! Tracy Cortez is officially scheduled to make her long-awaited return to the octagon during International Fight Week 2025. If you’ve been wondering where the talented flyweight has been, your wait for answers is finally over.

Multiple sources close to the promotion confirmed this booking to MMA journalists today, sending ripples through the community as fans anticipate seeing the 30-year-old contender back in action.

Why Tracy Cortez’s Return Matters for the Flyweight Division

I’ve been following Cortez’s career closely, and this return is significant for several reasons. Currently riding an impressive 10-fight win streak (including 4-0 in the UFC), Cortez has steadily climbed the ranks despite facing several challenges outside the cage that have limited her activity.

Her technical boxing, improving grappling, and remarkable cardio make her a legitimate threat in a division desperately seeking fresh contenders for champion Valentina Shevchenko.

Cortez’s UFC Journey So Far

What Has Kept Cortez Out of the Cage?

The Arizona-based fighter has faced various setbacks that limited her to just one fight in 2022 and none in 2023 or 2024. While specific details haven’t been officially disclosed, sources indicate that a combination of injuries and personal matters contributed to her extended absence.

This extended layoff will make it nearly three years between fights when she steps into the octagon during International Fight Week – a significant hurdle for any athlete, regardless of talent.

International Fight Week: The Perfect Stage for a Comeback

You couldn’t ask for a better platform for Cortez’s return. International Fight Week has historically been the UFC’s biggest annual celebration, featuring multiple cards and fan events that draw global attention. The promotion clearly values Cortez enough to give her this prime placement after such a long absence.

The timing suggests the UFC sees star potential in the charismatic fighter, who brings both Mexican and American fan bases to the table.

Potential Opponents for Cortez’s Return

While no opponent has been announced yet, I’m looking at several possibilities that make competitive sense:

• Miranda Maverick – Would test Cortez’s grappling and provide an interesting stylistic matchup
• Casey O’Neill – Two young prospects with something to prove
• Jennifer Maia – A veteran who would serve as a legitimate step up in competition

My gut tells me the UFC will avoid throwing Cortez directly into deep waters against a top-5 opponent given her layoff, but they’ll want a competitive fight that can propel her forward with a win.

What This Means for Cortez’s Career Trajectory

At 30 years old, Cortez is entering what should be her competitive prime. With an undefeated UFC record and the promotional backing to secure a spot on International Fight Week, a impressive performance could fast-track her toward title contention in a division always searching for fresh challengers.

The time away from competition raises legitimate questions about potential ring rust, but her disciplined approach and training at Fight Ready MMA alongside coach Eddie Cha suggests she’ll come prepared.

The Flyweight Division Landscape in 2025

By the time Cortez returns, the flyweight division could look significantly different than when she last competed. With Valentina Shevchenko approaching the later stages of her career and emerging talents like Erin Blanchfield and Manon Fiorot making waves, the timing could be perfect for Cortez to insert herself into the title picture with a statement victory.

What Are You Most Excited to See in Tracy Cortez’s Return?

As fight fans, we have months to speculate about this intriguing return. Will Cortez show the same promise that had many touting her as a future contender? Has she evolved her game during the layoff? Can she handle the pressure of such a high-profile return?

Drop a comment below with your thoughts or predictions about Tracy Cortez’s comeback fight. And don’t forget to bookmark our site for updates as we learn more about her opponent and exact fight date during International Fight Week 2025!

Source: MMA Fighting, UFC