The UFC is set to celebrate Mexican Independence Day this weekend with an event that focuses on Mexican and Mexican-American fighters. The highlight of the event will be the women’s flyweight title fight between the UFC’s first Mexican-born women’s champion, Alexa Grasso, and former champion Valentina Shevchenko. Taking place at the T-Mobile Arena, this event will be a groundbreaking moment for Mexican fighters in the UFC.
As part of the festivities, Alexa Grasso was presented with a unique and vibrant custom championship belt. Created in Mexico and inspired by the nation’s rich historical culture, the Tribe Belt #1 is a significant symbol of recognition for the champion. Designed by Taller Jacobo y María Ángeles in Oaxaca, the belt showcases details on the straps in purple, blue, red, orange, and green, adding a touch of Mexican flair to the traditional UFC title belt.
According to a UFC release, the Tribe Belt #1 aims to honor the leadership of women who overcome adversity and rise to the top. The designers incorporated elements of Mexican pre-Hispanic culture from the Mixtec/Zapotec cultures, infusing the belt with symbolic iconography. These elements represent protection, people, happiness, movement, and the power to conquer challenges—a testament to the arduous path of a champion.
While Grasso expressed excitement about the custom belt, she also revealed her superstitious nature when it comes to championship belts. She admitted to refraining from touching or getting too close to them until she secures a victory. However, Grasso did pose with the new belt on her shoulder during a media and fan event, acknowledging its significance while keeping her focus on earning it in the Octagon.
Alexa Grasso’s journey to becoming the UFC’s first Mexican-born women’s champion is a remarkable milestone in Mexican combat sports history. Her victory against Shevchenko at UFC 285 earlier this year showcased her talent and determination. hile Grasso competes out of Guadalajara, Mexico, she is not alone in representing her country in the UFC. Irene Aldana, her teammate and a top contender at women’s bantamweight, also paved the way for Mexican-born women to enter the Octagon.
Although the UFC has stated that the Tribe belt is Grasso’s to keep as a tribute to her championship win, Shevchenko has expressed her desire to take home both the regular UFC title and the Tribe belt if she emerges victorious on Saturday. This adds an extra layer of significance to the fight, as Shevchenko aims to celebrate Mexican Independence Day by holding two prestigious belts and becoming a part of Mexico’s historic celebration.
Shevchenko, born in Kyrgyzstan but fluent in Spanish after living in Peru for several years, is determined to come out on top. Winning the belt and celebrating with Mexico on their special day is her main goal. Her dedication and focus make this fight even more exciting, as both fighters bring their best skills and strategies to the Octagon.
The upcoming UFC event celebrating Mexican Independence Day promises to be a historic occasion. With a unique custom championship belt that represents the rich culture and tradition of Mexico, the fight between Alexa Grasso and Valentina Shevchenko will undoubtedly showcase the incredible talent and determination of these remarkable athletes. Whether Grasso retains her title or Shevchenko emerges as the new champion, this event will forever hold a special place in the hearts of Mexican fighters and fans alike.
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