“I Don’t Wanna Die” – UFC Star Tracy Cortez Recalls Scary Health Issue That Almost Called for Retirement

Popular women's flyweight star Tracy Cortez talks about almost quitting the UFC after suffering from tumors last year.

“I Don’t Wanna Die” – UFC Star Tracy Cortez Recalls Scary Health Issue That Almost Called for Retirement

Tracy Cortez talks about her recent health issues (via X)

At UFC 317, Tracy Cortez returned triumphantly, defeating Viviane Araujo by unanimous decision after showcasing control through three dominant rounds. It marked her first win since 2023, a crucial comeback after suffering a tough loss to Rose Namajunas the previous year. Cortez revealed post-fight that her year-long absence involved overcoming serious personal issues that deeply impacted her training and mindset.

Before her last loss, Cortez held an impressive eleven-fight win streak and was considered a future UFC title contender. However, in 2024, health problems nearly ended her career as fighting became secondary while she focused on survival and recovery instead. During a revealing interview on The Ariel Helwani Show, Cortez shared emotional details about her private battle with serious health issues.

They found tumors in my abdominal area, 3 huge ones. It was really scary. It was really scary to that point I was like, fuck fighting, fuck everything else. I don’t wanna die. I was really focused on my health.

According to Cortez, during a holiday in Brazil, she experienced pain but ignored it until it worsened and became unbearable quickly. She recalled how her family, especially her father, remained deeply worried and stood by her side throughout the painful experience. Doctors initially told her she couldn’t fight again, sending Cortez into depression as she struggled with losing her identity.

Despite going through all that, she didn’t give up and came back and gave an incredible performance at UFC 317. Cortez controlled the grappling early, landing a takedown and aggressively pursuing a guillotine before regaining position. In round two, Cortez expertly maintained distance, doubling her jab and mixing in kicks to systematically frustrate and outpoint Araujo.

Tracy Cortez talks about her emotional and powerful speech following UFC 317 win

Despite her dominance, Tracy Cortez expressed disappointment post-fight, wishing for a finish instead of another decision win on her record. She also highlighted pride in her heritage, holding both Mexican and American flags while proudly voicing support for the Latin community. In recent weeks, protests around immigration have erupted across major U.S. cities, especially Los Angeles, in response to aggressive ICE raids and deportations.

Tracy Cortez beats up Viviane Araujo at UFC 317
Tracy Cortez beats up Viviane Araujo at UFC 317 (via X)

Demonstrators expressed outrage over immigrant detentions, with some protests turning violent, vehicles torched and over 500 arrests reported. In response, the federal government deployed National Guard troops, prompting criticism and intensifying tensions nationwide over immigration enforcement. During her interview with Ariel Helwani, Cortez talked about this and why she chose to speak up.

It’s kind of been weighing heavy on me. I’ve seen everything that’s been happening and it has broke my heart. I think there’s a lot of lack of empathy and I prayed on it so much because I was so scared. I was so scared. It’s such a sensitive topic… If I wouldn’t have spoken up about it, I felt like I would have been coward. I just I wanted to be a voice, not just for people around the world, but for those close to me like my dad.

Over the years, Cortez has built a loyal MMA fanbase through her fighting skills and charismatic personality inside and outside the cage. She’s now eyeing a title shot and expressed interest in returning at Noche UFC later this year. It remains to be seen who the UFC pairs her with in this pivotal matchup.