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The female MMA sector is often overlooked, with the majority of stars fighting in the men’s division. This makes Michelle Waterson a true phenomenon who has consistently climbed her career ladder from amateur karate to stable performance on the professional UFC scene.
The blend of skill, endurance, and charisma enabled the athlete to achieve a great deal. Her journey was filled with ups and downs, but Waterson was always filled with passion for MMA. Her story highlights her strength and serves as an inspiration for younger fighters, who are just at the beginning of their boxing career.
The Early Days of Michelle’s Career
It would be great to begin the narrative by telling that Waterson has been passionate about MMA since her early childhood, but it’s not true. Michelle was interested in gymnastics, but her family’s financial conditions didn’t allow her to continue developing her skills in this sport. Instead, she chose karate: during that time, no one could ever think that this girl would become a betting favorite in CosmoBet and reach the top-tier levels in the UFC. After graduating from high school, Waterson began her modelling career. Her nickname “The Karate Hottie” quickly made her popular, bringing success in this sector. Still, the athlete felt that her boxing potential shouldn’t go unnoticed. Her first appearance on the boxing scene was as a ring girl, which undoubtedly influenced her desire to showcase her strength in professional sports.
The Shift to MMA
It’s worth noting that Michelle had excellent karate skills, which became the basis for her success in the MMA. The young athlete started seeking ways to show her striking, grappling, and consistency on an international level. Her MMA debut occurred in 2007 when she fought against Andrea Miller. Waterson won the contest by unanimous decision, which laid the ground for her boxing career.
She gained the audience’s attention with her unconventional techniques, heavily driven by her karate background. Dynamic kicks and quick movements helped her easily overcome competitors in the ring. Many fighters rely solely on their physical strength, but Michelle preferred to focus on strategy, which is one of the reasons for her success.
The Invicta FC Record
Waterson didn’t immediately join the UFC after her first victories; instead, the fighter made her name in the Invicta Fighting Championships. This organisation promotes women in the MMA, and here, Michelle faced many tough opponents. Vast experience in karate allowed Waterson to maintain an advantage in stand-up exchanges. In addition, participation in Invicta FC was the best solution for developing abilities like fight IQ and defensive skills. Her loud victories caused interest from many organisations, but Michelle didn’t want to settle for less, having a goal to join the UFC.
Entering the UFC
2015 has become a meaningful year for Michelle Waterson, as she finally signed with the Ultimate Fighting Championship. The fighter competes in the strawweight division. She quickly became famous regionally and globally due to her unique, striking style and a massive number of victories.
On the ring, Waterson combined constant pressure with precision and balance. Over the following years, she competed with some of the strongest MMA fighters, including Rose Namajunas and Paige VanZant. Of course, not all matches ended with Michelle’s victories, but the presence of an ex-karateka on the professional scene is a statement in itself.
Waterson’s fights are typically characterised by creativity and unpredictability, and she definitely knows how to create challenging conditions for her rivals. She frequently uses unexpected sidekicks and unusual angles, which gives her an evident edge. Many fans still use her early nickname, “The Karate Hottie,” as they mention that it still describes perfectly Michelle’s personality.
Retirement and Legacy
Michelle’s journey from an amateur karateka to a top UFC fighter was filled with challenges, but she managed to pass this path with honour. Injuries, tough losses, and the intense competition of the UFC have tested her resilience, but her mindset as a winner has remained relevant throughout her entire career. Waterson retired in 2024 after a series of losses in fights against Amanda Lemos, Marina Rodriguez, and several other athletes.
However, her legacy still shapes women’s MMA. Michelle inspired many young boxers not to fear entering something unknown, highlighting the need to acquire new skills even when they are at the top. Currently, she strengthens her influence beyond the ring by advocating for female sport and attracting more MMA fans.
Final Words
Michelle Waterson has already closed her UFC career chapter, but the story remains an inspiring blend of resilience, mental toughness, and desire to succeed. Her rise from a karate student with a funny nickname to the worldwide-famous fighter proves that wins are not only about physical strength. Michelle has been adapting her skills throughout her entire boxing career, and even her retirement isn’t a reason for her to step out of the MMA world.