Ailin Perez: From Shrek'S 'Fiona' To Ufc Star – A Journey Of Grit And Glamour

The Dual Life of Ailin Perez

Ailin Perez is a name that's buzzing in the UFC world, not just for her impressive moves in the octagon, but also for the unique life she leads outside of it. Known as "Fiona," a nod to the movie Shrek, Perez embodies two contrasting personas. Off the mat, she's a calm and approachable single mother, yet when fight night arrives, she transforms into a fierce competitor.

A Fighter's Journey

Perez's journey is a testament to her resilience and dedication. Born in Buenos Aires Province, Argentina, she has balanced motherhood and a demanding MMA career. Her son, Ades, is a constant inspiration, even as Perez faces the challenge of long separations for training camps. She started her martial arts journey at age 12 with kung fu and sanda, and by her late teens, she had embraced jiu-jitsu. This early start laid the foundation for her grind-heavy style that has become her trademark in the UFC.

"Legally, this isn’t over," Perez stated, following a notable altercation at the UFC Performance Institute in 2023.

From Regional Circuits to UFC Stardom

Perez made her professional debut in 2018, quickly realizing the scarcity of local opponents in women’s divisions. This drove her to compete beyond Argentina, collecting valuable experience in Uruguay and Brazil. Her career took a turn with a Bantamweight title win on the Samurai Fight House circuit. However, a disqualification lost her the belt, marking a pivotal moment that forced her to reassess and evolve.

Her UFC debut came on September 3, 2022, against Stephanie Egger, setting the stage for her growth. Despite the initial loss, Perez has since accumulated a series of victories, showcasing her control and tactical prowess over opponents like Ashlee Evans-Smith, Lucie Pudilova, and Karol Rosa.

Life Beyond the Octagon

Outside the cage, Perez is as dynamic as she is in it. She candidly discusses her income from OnlyFans, which she views as a vital support for her career and personal life. Her openness about financial matters is refreshing in a sport where such topics are often sidestepped. Perez also finds joy in dancing, a passion she shares with her son, which features prominently in her post-fight celebrations.

Looking Ahead

As of January 2026, Perez remains a formidable presence in the Women’s Bantamweight division, with a fight lined up against Macy Chiasson on February 28, 2026, in Mexico City. Training with The Goat Shed Academy, she continues to refine her skills, aiming to extend her winning streak and solidify her place in UFC history. Her current record stands at 12-2, with notable wins by knockout and submission, reflecting her diverse skill set.

Ailin Perez's story is one of perseverance, adaptability, and ambition, as she continues to make her mark in the UFC while balancing the demands of motherhood.