Latin music has become a powerful tool for UFC fighters to showcase their identity and connect with the audience. In the lead-up to Noche UFC, a Mexican Independence Day tradition, the walkout songs of these athletes take on a special significance. These songs are not just about entertainment; they are a way for fighters to express their heritage, culture, and personal brand. Here's a breakdown of 10 UFC fighters and their Latin walkout songs, each with a unique story and impact.
Alexa Grasso: Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán, "El Son de la Negra"
Grasso's choice of "El Son de la Negra" is a powerful declaration of her Mexican heritage. This mariachi standard carries cultural weight and instantly sets the tone for her fights. It's not just a song; it's a statement of pride and identity, making it a perfect fit for Grasso's walkout.
Diego Lopes: Los Tucanes, "La Chona" (Steve Aoki Remix)
Lopes brings a high-energy twist to his walkout with a Steve Aoki remix of "La Chona." This norteña song is a party record, a communal sing-along, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It aligns perfectly with Lopes' fighting style, emphasizing pace, offense, and chaos.
Edgar Chairez: Carlos Blanco, "Soy Un Mexicano, Lo Que Hay"
Chairez's walkout song is a direct and clear declaration of his Mexican identity. The title itself, "Soy Un Mexicano, Lo Que Hay," leaves no room for ambiguity. This song is effective in a setting like Noche UFC, where Mexican representation is celebrated.
Kelvin Gastelum: Vicente Fernández, "El Palenque"
Gastelum's walkout song, "El Palenque," has built-in symbolism. The song was identified by the UFC as his theme song, and it frames his self-presentation and mindset. It's a powerful tool for Gastelum to introduce himself to fans.
Loopy Godinez: Marc Anthony, "Vivir Mi Vida"
Godinez's walkout song, "Vivir Mi Vida," is a celebration of her identity. The song has become synonymous with her, bringing a lighter and upbeat energy. It's widely recognizable and rooted in Latin pop-salsa, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Alex Pereira: Sepultura, "Itsári"
Pereira's choice of "Itsári" is unique. It's an instrumental from Sepultura's album, built around collaboration with the Indigenous Xavante people of Brazil. This song places Pereira's heritage at the center of his walkout, a powerful statement of his roots.
Raul Rosas Jr.: Vicente Fernández, "México Lindo y Querido"
Rosas Jr.'s walkout song, "México Lindo y Querido," is a straightforward nod to his Mexican identity. His UFC rise has been closely tied to Mexican pride, and this song is a clear reflection of that.
Ilia Topuria: Antonio Banderas & Los Lobos, "Canción del Mariachi"
Topuria's walkout song, "Canción del Mariachi," gives his entrance a cinematic charge. The song is dramatic and familiar, instantly recognizable from the film "Desperado." It creates a theatrical build, making for an unforgettable walkout.
Tracy Cortez: Selena, "Como la Flor"
Cortez's walkout song, "Como la Flor," is deeply personal. It's a reminder of her roots and a humbling connection to her mother's request. The song's meaning and impact go beyond the fight, making it a powerful part of her identity.
Waldo Cortes-Acosta: Don Miguelo, Mozart La Para & Lapiz Conciente, "Pila de Bandera"
Cortes-Acosta brings dembow to the UFC walkout scene with "Pila de Bandera." This song widens the list's sound, showcasing that Latin music in UFC walkouts is not limited to one national style. Dembow brings a different tempo and a Caribbean identity, adding diversity to the list.
