UFC flyweight Tracy Cortez is set to make her highly anticipated return to the octagon at UFC 317, where she will face Viviane Araujo on June 28 in Las Vegas, Nevada. This event marks a significant moment for Cortez, who aims to bounce back from her last fight.
Cortez, with a professional record of 12 wins and 2 losses, has not fought since her defeat against former champion Rose Namajunas last July. That loss ended her five-fight winning streak, yet she remains ranked #10 in the flyweight division. Throughout her career, Cortez has secured notable victories over strong opponents, including Jasmine Jasudavicius, Melissa Gatto, Justine Kish, and Erin Blanchfield. Cortez notably defeated Blanchfield by split decision at Invicta FC 34 back in 2019, showcasing her potential as a rising star within the UFC.
Viviane Araujo, holding a record of 13 wins and 6 losses, enters this fight fresh off a decision victory over Karine Silva at UFC 309 last November. Araujo has accumulated a record of 7 wins and 5 losses in the UFC, establishing herself with wins against other top fighters like Jennifer Maia, Andrea Lee, and Montana de La Rosa. Araujo's experience and impressive resume make her a formidable opponent for Cortez as both fighters seek to climb the ranks of the division.
With the UFC flyweight title on the line at UFC 315 just days before their fight, Cortez and Araujo will aim to impress the matchmakers and fans alike in their bout at UFC 317. This matchup is crucial for both fighters, as a victory could catapult them into title contention.
UFC 317 is shaping up to be an exciting event, although a headliner has yet to be announced. The current fight card includes several intriguing matchups:
- Paulo Costa vs. Roman Kopylov
- Brandon Royval vs. Manel Kape
- Michael Johnson vs. Daniel Zellhuber
- Jhonata Diniz vs. Justin Tafa
- Tracy Cortez vs. Viviane Araujo
This event will take place at the prestigious T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas as part of International Fight Week, which also includes UFC X and the UFC Hall of Fame ceremony. Fans should mark their calendars for June 28, as both Cortez and Araujo will put their skills to the test in a fight that could determine their futures in the UFC flyweight division.
As excitement builds for UFC 317, the MMA community will be closely watching how Tracy Cortez and Viviane Araujo perform, adding another layer of anticipation to what is already an exceptional week for fight fans.