Maycee Barber, known to her fans as “The Future,” has emerged as one of the most compelling and polarizing figures in the Ultimate Fighting Championship’s women’s flyweight division. With a relentless fighting style, an unwavering self-belief, and a career marked by both stunning victories and significant setbacks, Barber’s journey in the unforgiving world of mixed martial arts has been nothing short of a rollercoaster. As she approaches her highly anticipated main event clash with Erin Blanchfield, let’s delve deep into the life, career, and evolving narrative of this formidable contender.
Early Life and the Genesis of a Fighter
Born on May 18, 1998, in Greeley, Colorado, Maycee Kaye Barber’s foray into martial arts began at an incredibly young age. At just three years old, she started training in karate, laying the groundwork for a lifelong dedication to combat sports. This early immersion transitioned into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu when her family opened their own martial arts school in 2010. It was through these disciplines that Barber honed her skills, developed a profound understanding of combat, and cultivated the fierce competitive spirit that defines her today.
Her amateur MMA career kicked off at 18, and it wasn’t long before her talent became undeniable. A rapid ascent through the regional circuits, marked by dominant performances and a clear hunger for progression, saw her quickly turn professional. Before dedicating herself fully to the UFC, Barber even held the #1 strawweight ranking in the LFA (Legacy Fighting Alliance), a testament to her early promise and potential.
The UFC Call-Up and “The Future” Unfolds
Barber’s big break came through Dana White’s Contender Series. In July 2018, she delivered a systematic and brutal TKO victory over Jamie Colleen Miller, showcasing her devastating elbows and relentless pressure. This performance earned her a coveted UFC contract, marking the official beginning of “The Future” in the world’s premier MMA organization.
Her UFC debut in November 2018 against Hannah Cifers was equally impressive, with Barber securing another TKO victory via ground-and-pound in the second round. This initial run in the UFC saw her dispatch JJ Aldrich and Gillian Robertson with similar finishes, establishing her as a dangerous and aggressive force in the flyweight division. She was on an undeniable trajectory, living up to her self-proclaimed moniker with every dominant performance.
The ACL Tear and a Test of Resilience
However, “The Future” faced its first major hurdle in January 2020 at UFC 246. In a bout against the seasoned Roxanne Modafferi, Barber suffered a complete ACL tear early in the fight. Despite the debilitating injury, she showed incredible heart and continued to fight through the pain, ultimately losing by unanimous decision. This was not only her first professional loss but also a significant physical setback that sidelined her for over a year.
The recovery process was arduous, made even more challenging by the global pandemic. Barber was forced to adapt, even conducting some of her rehabilitation remotely. Yet, she emerged from this period with a renewed sense of purpose and an even stronger resolve. This period of adversity, though difficult, allowed her body to fully recover and for her to mature as an athlete, both mentally and physically.
The Resurgence: A Six-Fight Winning Streak
Upon her return in February 2021 against Alexa Grasso, Barber faced another decision loss, signaling a challenging period after her injury. However, she quickly found her stride. What followed was a remarkable turnaround, as Maycee Barber embarked on an impressive six-fight winning streak, solidifying her position as a top contender in the flyweight division.
This streak includes notable victories over:
Montana De La Rosa (April 2022): A unanimous decision win showcasing her evolving grappling and control.
Jessica Eye (July 2022): Another dominant unanimous decision against a respected veteran.
Andrea Lee (March 2023): A hard-fought split decision victory that demonstrated her ability to grind out wins.
Amanda Ribas (June 2023): A sensational TKO victory in the second round, earning her a “Performance of the Night” bonus and reminding everyone of her finishing power.
Katlyn Cerminara (formerly Chookagian) (March 2024): A unanimous decision win at UFC 299 against a highly-ranked opponent, further cementing her standing.
These victories, particularly against established names like Ribas and Cerminara, have catapulted Barber into the upper echelon of the flyweight division, placing her firmly in the title picture.
Fighting Style: Aggression, Pressure, and Evolving Skills
Maycee Barber’s fighting style is characterized by her aggressive, forward-moving approach. She thrives on pressure, consistently pushing the pace and looking to overwhelm her opponents. Her background in karate is evident in her striking, particularly her powerful kicks and elbows, which she utilizes effectively in the clinch and on the ground.
While initially known for her raw power and willingness to engage in brawls, Barber has shown significant evolution in her technical skills, particularly in her grappling and clinch work. She has developed strong takedowns and is proficient in controlling opponents on the mat, often delivering ground-and-pound. Her ability to integrate her striking with her wrestling makes her a truly well-rounded threat.
However, her aggressive nature sometimes leaves her open to counters, and her reliance on pressure can occasionally lead to stamina issues in longer fights if she doesn’t pace herself correctly. Nonetheless, her relentless pursuit of the finish and her ability to absorb punishment make her a dangerous and exciting fighter to watch.
Training and Team Alpha Male
Maycee Barber’s training journey has seen her move between various camps, but she has found a significant home at Team Alpha Male in Sacramento, California. This renowned gym, known for producing elite MMA talent, has undoubtedly played a crucial role in her recent success. Training alongside other high-level fighters and under experienced coaches has allowed her to refine her technique, improve her conditioning, and develop a more comprehensive game plan.
Her commitment to growth and her willingness to seek out the best training environments underscore her dedication to reaching the pinnacle of the sport.
Maycee Barber’s Next Fight: A Title Eliminator?
As of the latest information, Maycee Barber is scheduled to face Erin Blanchfield in the main event of UFC Fight Night: Blanchfield vs. Barber on May 31, 2025, at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas. This is a monumental clash between two of the top contenders in the women’s flyweight division, with both fighters currently holding impressive win streaks.
Blanchfield, ranked #3, and Barber, ranked #4 (as of May 13, 2025, according to UFC rankings, though some sources list her as #5), are on a collision course that is widely considered a de facto title eliminator. The winner of this bout will undoubtedly stake a strong claim for a shot at the UFC Women’s Flyweight Championship.
This fight holds significant implications for Barber’s career, as a victory over Blanchfield would not only extend her winning streak to seven but also place her in an undeniable position for her first UFC title shot.
Net Worth and Career Earnings
As a professional mixed martial artist in the UFC, Maycee Barber earns through fight purses, performance bonuses, and endorsements. While exact figures are often not publicly disclosed, estimates in 2021 placed her net worth around $500,000. With her continued success, multiple “Performance of the Night” bonuses (such as the one she earned against Amanda Ribas), and increasingly higher-profile fights, her earnings and net worth are expected to have grown significantly. The main event status of her upcoming fight against Blanchfield will also likely result in her biggest payout to date.
Controversies and Public Perception
Like many athletes in the spotlight, Maycee Barber has faced her share of controversies and has a somewhat polarizing public perception. Her outspoken confidence and sometimes blunt demeanor have led to mixed reactions from fans and fellow fighters.
One notable instance involved a public exchange with fellow UFC fighter Sean Strickland. Strickland recounted an incident where Barber expressed dismay over receiving negative comments from fans, to which Strickland, in his characteristic blunt style, suggested she “welcome to life” and understand that fame comes with both adoration and criticism. This exchange highlighted some of the differences in how fighters approach public scrutiny.
There have also been discussions, particularly after her loss to Roxanne Modafferi, regarding the influence of her family, specifically her father, on her career and public image. Some observers have commented on what they perceive as an overly protective or dismissive attitude towards criticism from her corner, leading to accusations of a “fake black belt” controversy in BJJ. These discussions, while not directly related to her in-cage performance, have shaped some aspects of public opinion.
Despite these minor controversies, Barber’s undeniable talent and exciting fighting style continue to draw attention, ensuring she remains a compelling figure in the sport.
FAQs
Who is Maycee Barber?
Maycee Kaye Barber is an American mixed martial artist born on May 18, 1998, in Greeley, Colorado. She competes in the UFC’s women’s flyweight division and is renowned for her aggressive fighting style and ambition to become the youngest UFC champion.
What is Maycee Barber’s MMA record?
As of May 2025, Barber holds a professional MMA record of 14 wins and 2 losses. Her victories comprise 6 by knockout, 2 by submission, and 6 by decision. Notably, she is on a 6-fight winning streak, showcasing her consistent performance in the octagon.
What are Maycee Barber’s physical stats?
Height: 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm)
Weight: 125 pounds (56.7 kg)
Reach: 65 inches (165 cm)
Stance: Switch
What is her fighting style and training background?
Barber is a second-degree black belt in Karate and holds a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Rener and Ryron Gracie. Her fighting style integrates striking and grappling, allowing her to adapt to various opponents. She currently trains with Team Alpha Male in Sacramento, California, having previously been affiliated with Fort Collins MMA and Roufusport.
What are her notable UFC fights?
Debut: Defeated Hannah Cifers via TKO at UFC Fight Night 139 on November 10, 2018.
Significant Victory: Secured a TKO win against Amanda Ribas on June 24, 2023, earning a Performance of the Night bonus.
Recent Fight: Achieved a unanimous decision victory over Katlyn Cerminara at UFC 299 on March 9, 2024.
What is her current UFC ranking?
As of May 13, 2025, Barber is ranked #5 in the UFC women’s flyweight division and #14 in the women’s pound-for-pound rankings.
When is her next fight?
Barber is scheduled to headline UFC Fight Night on May 31, 2025, against Erin Blanchfield. This non-title flyweight bout will take place at the UFC APEX facility in Las Vegas.
Has she faced any health issues recently?
Yes. Following her victory at UFC 299, Barber experienced a severe health scare, leading to a nine-day hospitalization. She reported symptoms including a high fever and breathing difficulties, later attributed to an Epstein-Barr virus infection. Despite this setback, she has since recovered and resumed training.
What is her estimated net worth?
As of 2025, Barber’s net worth is estimated between $1–2 million. Her income sources include UFC fight purses ranging from $50,000 to $150,000 per bout, sponsorship deals, and performance bonuses.
What is known about her personal life?
Barber is known to keep her personal life private. She is not publicly dating anyone and focuses primarily on her MMA career. Her father, Bucky Barber, has been instrumental in her development as a fighter, and her younger brother, Wyatt, is also pursuing a career in mixed martial arts.
What are her future aspirations?
Barber has expressed a strong desire to become the youngest champion in UFC history. With her current trajectory and upcoming high-profile fights, she remains a formidable contender in the flyweight division.
Where can fans follow her?
Fans can follow Maycee Barber on her official Instagram account: @mayceebarber, where she shares training updates, fight announcements, and personal insights.
To conclude
Maycee Barber’s journey in the UFC exemplifies determination, skill, and resilience. From her early days in Colorado to becoming a top-ranked flyweight contender, she has consistently demonstrated her commitment to excellence in mixed martial arts. Her diverse fighting background, encompassing Karate and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, combined with her adaptability in the octagon, makes her a versatile and formidable opponent.
Despite facing health challenges, including a significant hospitalization in 2024, Barber’s swift recovery and return to form underscore her tenacity and dedication to the sport. Her upcoming bout against Erin Blanchfield is not just another fight; it’s a testament to her unwavering pursuit of greatness and a potential stepping stone toward a title shot.
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