Michelle Montague Makes History as First New Zealand Woman to Sign with UFC

In a groundbreaking move, Michelle Montague has become the first New Zealand woman to sign with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), joining the ranks of the world's most elite combat sports athletes. The 31-year-old from Matamata has long been a force in multiple athletic arenas, and her recent signing marks a new chapter in her storied career.

Montague, known as 'The Wild One,' has a diverse athletic background that spans from rugby to wrestling and now, mixed martial arts (MMA). She previously competed in the Oceania continental championship alongside Sarah Walker, an Olympic BMX rider, and was a forward for the Waikato women's rugby team. Montague also represented New Zealand at the 2018 and 2022 Commonwealth Games in freestyle wrestling, where she gained national recognition and set her sights on the ultimate goal of competing in the UFC.

Speaking to RNZ in 2018, Montague revealed her ambition to become New Zealand's first female to enter the UFC. That dream has now become a reality. Currently training at American Top Team in Florida, Montague is preparing to drop a division to bantamweight, having previously fought at featherweight. She is coached by Carlo Meister and currently holds the 13th position in the world rankings for female featherweight.

With a 6-0 professional MMA record, Montague is now officially part of the UFC family. Her next anticipated fight is against Brazil’s Luana Carolina at bantamweight in Perth on September 27, though the promotion has yet to officially confirm the match. This event is also expected to feature Kiwi fighter Navajo Stirling, who will face Brazil’s Rodolfo Bellato.

Career Highlights

• IMMAF World Champion (Women's Lightweight Division, 2019)
• Pro MMA Wins at PFL MMA, Bellator MMA, and iKon Fighting Championships
• UWW World Championships Competitor
• NZ Commonwealth Games Representative (Freestyle Wrestling, 2018 & 2022)
• Oceania Wrestling Champion
• Colby Harris Memorial Cup Recipient (2018)
• Multiple NZ Grappler National Champion

Montague's journey from a small town in New Zealand to the global stage of the UFC is a testament to her resilience, dedication, and versatility as an athlete. Her signing not only marks a personal milestone but also sets a new benchmark for women in New Zealand’s combat sports scene.

As she prepares for her upcoming fights, the world will be watching closely to see what the future holds for this trailblazing athlete. With her unique blend of strength, skill, and determination, Michelle Montague is poised to make a significant impact in the UFC and inspire a new generation of athletes.