Being a fan of something means obsessing over it and doing almost everything you can to learn more about it. Filling your free time and looking forward to these activities is what makes life better and more enjoyable. When it comes to following professional sports and athletes, athleticism and performance are supposed to be at the center of attention. Being impressed with how well they play and perform, and in turn win the titles, is the epitome of competition, so naturally, that is what most fans gravitate to.
Yet, in the modern times of mass information and content consumption, the reality of fame, media, and fandom often paints a more complex picture. In the modern era of social media and 24/7 exposure, fans are not only drawn to what athletes accomplish in the ring, on the field, or on the court. They also deeply care about how they look, dress, and carry themselves. This fascination is particularly evident with female athletes across sports, one example of which includes the Mexican former UFC champion Alexa Grasso. Her fanbase frequently expresses admiration not only for her skill but also for her looks, beauty, and fitness.
This can come in a variety of ways. For some, it is solely the female athlete’s beauty. For others, it is their physique, which makes sense because athletes are some of the fittest, fastest, most agile, and therefore leanest and attractive people on the planet. Add to that the success and fame, and they instantly become many fans’ ideal of what a person, man, or, in this case, woman, should be. It even goes as far as there being an Alexa Grasso feet obsession phenomenon, as this is one of the most widespread physical attractions in modern times. Here is a more in depth analysis of why this may be so.
Blurred Line Between Performance and Appearance
Athletic performance and physical appearance are increasingly intertwined in the public’s perception of sports figures. One relies on the other if the individual is to be successful. Take a look at the best of the best, and they will probably be those who invest most time, effort, and resources into their physical shape. Athletes, by nature of their profession, must maintain peak physical condition, which becomes a visual marker of dedication, discipline, and vitality. For female athletes, this often invites an additional layer of scrutiny and fascination. Fans do not simply view them as competitors but as public figures who embody a combination of power and aesthetic appeal. The line between admiring athleticism and physical attraction becomes blurred, creating a dual appreciation where one is rooted in respect and the other in fascination. Naturally, being attracted and idolising them comes along.
Power of Beauty Ideals and Cultural Standards
Society’s evolving beauty standards have shifted to celebrate strength, health, and confidence, all of which are qualities that female athletes naturally represent and rely on for their profession. Alexa Grasso fits this modern ideal perfectly. Her toned physique, radiant confidence, and authentic smile align with the broader cultural narrative that views athletic women as the ultimate expression of empowerment and attractiveness. In a world where fitness and self care are aspirational goals, athletes like Grasso embody a lifestyle that fans want to emulate. Her image is not just about beauty, but about what that beauty represents: control, balance, and self mastery. The fact that she is very present on social media platforms helps spread this, as fans have a daily dose of content revolving around her training, lifestyle, outfits, and look.
Parasocial Relationships and Digital Intimacy
Speaking of online content, social media has transformed fandom into a deeply personal experience that many people actually struggle to contain and do not even realise. Fans feel as though they “know” Alexa Grasso through her posts, interviews, and behind the scenes content. And she is not the only one, as this phenomenon is very present right now. It creates what psychologists call a parasocial relationship, a one sided emotional bond between a public figure and an admirer where the latter does not even think of the fact that, to the celebrity, they are just one among the millions of fans. When fans see her training, sharing glimpses of her life, a bikini photo from the beach, or even smiling for a casual photo, it reinforces their sense of connection. Gor Grasso, her approachable persona, welcoming and cheerful spirit, and genuine demeanor amplify this effect, turning admiration into affection and fascination into loyalty.
Celebrity Crushes and Emotional Projection
Ultimately, it is natural for fans to develop crushes on public figures who captivate them. In the case of Alexa Grasso, her charm, discipline, and humility make her an appealing figure not only for her athletic achievements but for her overall aura. Fans often project personal ideals or desires onto celebrities, seeing in them the qualities they wish for themselves or in others. For many, Grasso’s combination of strength and femininity represents a balance that feels both admirable and emotionally magnetic. Add to this the inspiration of an entire continent in Latin America, and especially her home country of Mexico, and you have tens of millions of people who, for different reasons and layers of attraction, “fall under her spell”, both men and women.
Inspiration Through Physical and Mental Strength
Beyond attraction and admiration, many fans see Alexa Grasso as an inspiration. Her physique symbolizes resilience, hard work, and a relentless commitment to improvement. It is the result of a lifelong regime of hard work, dedication, and sacrifice. Not many can or are willing to do it themselves, so they need inspiration. For female fans, she can represent empowerment and the breaking of stereotypes that once limited how women in sports were perceived. For male fans, she embodies respect and admiration for someone who has earned her success through discipline and authenticity. Her fitness is not merely aesthetic, but a visible reflection of effort and perseverance, which resonates with anyone striving to better themselves.
The Mix of Fame, Fitness, and Fascination
The fascination with Alexa Grasso’s looks is part of a larger cultural phenomenon, one where the visual dimension of sports and celebrity culture is inseparable from admiration. Fans are drawn to her for what she does, but they stay intrigued because of who she appears to be. It is a fine blend of power, beauty, and humility. While some may view this obsession as superficial, it also highlights the human desire to connect, idealize, and be inspired by those who seem to embody the best version of what we aspire to be. If some type of attraction comes along the way, that too is very normal. Someone famous and fit who easily fascinates the fans will always be popular, and people will always want to look at her photos and videos.
Alexa Grasso is Not the Only One
Of course, the Mexican star MMA fighter is hardly the only one who fits this narrative. Other female UFC fighters who attract similar fan fascination for both their skill and looks include Valentina Shevchenko, Grasso’s nemesis and fiercest rival. She is admired for her elegance, composure, and refined femininity that contrasts with her fierce fighting style. Paige VanZant became a crossover celebrity due to her girl next door appeal and media charisma. Miesha Tate has long been celebrated for her balanced image of toughness and approachability.
Rachael Ostovich impressed and inspired fans with her blend of athletic strength, glamorous beauty, and fashion sense, often highlighted on social media. Lastly, Mackenzie Dern draws attention for her natural charm, surfer girl looks, and friendly personality. Each of these fighters represents how beauty, confidence, and athleticism combine to create powerful icons in the eyes of fans. The fact that fans claim all of them could be models adds to their fascination with these fighters’ beauty and physique.
Alexa Grasso UFC Record and Opponents
As of the writing of this article, Grasso has a record of 16 wins, 5 defeats, and 1 draw. It is one of the best records in women’s flyweight, and beyond, so it makes sense to analyze it more deeply and see how she fared against which opponent. The only one she fought multiple times was Valentina Shevchenko, against whom she is 1-1-1, a true rivalry.
| Date | Event | Opponent | W/L | Outcome | Round | Time |
| 8 Aug 2017 | UFC Fight Night 114 | Randa Markos | W | Decision (unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 |
| 19 May 2018 | UFC Fight Night 129 | Tatiana Suarez | L | Submission | 1 | 2:44 |
| 8 Jun 2019 | UFC 238: Cejudo vs. Moraes | Karolina Kowalkiewicz | W | Decision (unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 |
| 21 Sep 2019 | UFC Fight Night: Rodríguez vs. Stephens | Carla Esparza | L | Decision (majority) | 3 | 5:00 |
| 29 Aug 2020 | UFC Fight Night: Smith vs. Rakić | Ji Yeon Kim | W | Decision (unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 |
| 13 Feb 2021 | UFC 258: Usman vs. Burns | Maycee Barber | W | Decision (unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 |
| 26 Mar 2022 | UFC Fight Night: Blaydes vs. Daukaus | Joanne Wood | W | Submission | 1 | 3:57 |
| 15 Oct 2022 | UFC Fight Night: Grasso vs. Araujo | Viviane Araujo | W | Decision (unanimous) | 5 | 5:00 |
| 4 Mar 2023 | UFC 285: Jones vs. Gane | Valentina Shevchenko | W | Submission | 4 | 4:34 |
| 16 Sep 2023 | UFC Fight Night: Grasso vs. Shevchenko 2 | Valentina Shevchenko | D | Draw | 5 | 5:00 |
| 14 Sep 2024 | UFC 306: O’Malley vs. Dvalishvili | Valentina Shevchenko | L | Decision (unanimous) | 5 | 5:00 |
| 10 May 2025 | UFC 315: Muhammad vs. Della Maddalena | Natalia Silva | L | Decision (unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 |
Alexa Grasso FAQs
What is Alexa Grasso’s background, and where is she from?
Alexa Grasso, whose full name is Karen Alexa Grasso Montes, was born on August 9, 1993, in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico. She began training in martial arts at a young age under the guidance of her father and uncle at Lobo Gym in Guadalajara.
What weight class does she compete in, and what are her physical stats?
Alexa competes in the Women’s Flyweight division (125 lb/56.7 kg). She stands about 5′5″ tall, weighs around 126 lbs, fights in an orthodox stance, and has a 66 inch reach.
What major achievement did she accomplish in the UFC?
Alexa made history by becoming the first Mexican woman, and the second Mexican, to win a UFC championship when she captured the UFC Women’s Flyweight title in 2023.
What is a memorable or signature win of hers?
Her most iconic victories came when she submitted Valentina Shevchenko at UFC 285 in March 2023 via a face crank in the fourth round, an upset that shocked fans and analysts worldwide.
Has she had to deal with major injuries?
Yes. She has dealt with a few setbacks, including a reported leg injury sustained during training in late 2024 that temporarily sidelined her career, which was arguably still in its prime.
What martial arts disciplines or training does she have beyond MMA?
Before focusing on MMA, Alexa competed in national jiu jitsu tournaments and later earned a brown belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. She is known for combining her sharp boxing technique with strong grappling fundamentals.
Was there a significant shift in her career regarding weight classes?
Yes. Alexa originally competed at strawweight before UFC, but decided to move up to flyweight, where she made her divisional debut in August 2020 and earned a unanimous decision victory.
What is her fighting style, or what makes her stand out inside the octagon?
She is widely recognized for her crisp technical boxing, quick footwork, and improved grappling skills. Her ability to transition smoothly between striking and submissions makes her a well rounded threat.
Does she have any unusual or fun personal details or trivia?
A fun fact is that Alexa does not use a nickname. She has said she prefers to wait until someone else gives her one naturally, believing nicknames are best when earned rather than chosen.
What larger significance does her career hold beyond just wins and losses?
Alexa’s rise has had a major cultural impact. He has been inspiring young athletes across Mexico and Latin America, especially the girls, to pick up martial arts or sports in general. She has become a symbol of perseverance and pride for Mexican MMA, and she hopes to one day challenge for the title in her hometown of Guadalajara.