Jessica Aguilar, known as “Jag” in the mixed martial arts world, is a pioneering figure in women’s MMA.
With a career spanning over a decade, Aguilar has made significant contributions to the sport, particularly in the strawweight division.
This article teaches you about Jessica Aguilar’s net worth, salary, career earnings, contract, stats, wife, career overview, and more.
Jessica Aguilar’s Biography
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jessica Aguilar |
| Nickname | Jag |
| Born | May 8, 1982 |
| Age | 42 |
| Division | Strawweight |
| Religion | – |
| Nationality | Mexican-American |
| Height | 5’3″ (160 cm) |
| Net worth | $0.5 million |
| Salary | $35,000 (from WSOF 10 event) |
| Wife/Relationship Status | In a relationship with actress Shalita Grant (as of 2020) |
| Instagram Profile | @jagatt |
Early Career
Jessica Aguilar’s journey in mixed martial arts began in the mid-2000s. She made her professional debut in 2006 at Absolute Fighting Championships 15, where she faced Lisa Ellis.
Despite losing her first fight, Aguilar showed promise and determination.
She quickly bounced back, winning her next several fights in various promotions, including Combat Fighting Championship and World Fighting Championships.
Professional Career
Aguilar’s professional career took off when she joined Bellator Fighting Championships in 2010. She won the WSOF Women’s Strawweight Championship in 2014 and successfully defended it twice.
In 2015, Aguilar made her UFC debut, facing tough competition in the world’s premier MMA organization.
Throughout her career, she has been known for her well-rounded skillset, combining strong grappling with improved striking.
Spouse
She is openly lesbian and is dating actress Shalita Grant.
Jessica Aguilar’s Net Worth Details
Jessica Aguilar‘s net worth is estimated to be $0.5 million as of 2025.
Contract
Aguilar’s most recent known contract was with the UFC. She signed with the organization in 2015, marking a significant milestone in her career.
However, in 2019, it was reported that Aguilar was released from the UFC.
Fight Purses
| Event | Fighter | Purse |
|---|---|---|
| WSOF 10 | Jessica Aguilar | $35,000 (includes $17,500 win bonus) |
Career Records
| Opponent | Result | Event | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cláudia Gadelha | Loss | UFC 190 | August 1, 2015 |
| Megumi Fujii | Win | Bellator 69 | May 18, 2012 |
| Carla Esparza | Win | Bellator 46 | June 25, 2011 |
| Zoila Frausto Gurgel | Loss | Bellator 31 | September 30, 2010 |
| Zhang Weili | Loss | UFC Fight Night 141 | November 24, 2018 |
FAQs
1. For which MMA promotions has Jessica Aguilar competed during her career?
Aguilar fought in elite organizations including the UFC, Bellator, World Series of Fighting (WSOF), and Invicta FC, establishing her as a pioneer in women’s mixed martial arts.
2. What titles and championships has Aguilar won?
She became the inaugural WSOF women’s strawweight champion, defending her title successfully and earning recognition as one of the earliest world champions in the division.
3. What is Aguilar’s overall professional MMA record and finishing rate?
Aguilar holds more than 20 professional wins, with several victories by submission and unanimous decision, showing a well-rounded ground game and tactical experience against top-tier opponents.
4. Who are some of Aguilar’s most notable opponents throughout her career?
She has faced elite fighters such as Claudia Gadelha, Carla Esparza, Weili Zhang, Karolina Kowalkiewicz, and Megumi Fujii, competing against many athletes who held or challenged for titles.
5. What is Aguilar’s fighting style and strongest attributes as a competitor?
Known for her Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and solid wrestling, Aguilar dominates with control, positional awareness, and resilience. Her submission skills make her dangerous on the mat and a tough out for any contender.
6. How did Aguilar’s early career and background lead to MMA success?
Born in Mexico and raised in Texas, Aguilar began martial arts as an adult. She quickly climbed through regional promotions, using determination and discipline to break barriers for Latina MMA fighters.
7. What are some challenges or setbacks Aguilar has faced in her MMA journey?
She overcame injuries, a difficult split with the WSOF, and losses in her UFC tenure, but continued competing at a high level and maintained her reputation for grit and professionalism.
8. What contributions has Aguilar made to MMA outside the cage?
She is a visible LGBTQ+ athlete and advocate, mentoring young fighters, supporting anti-bullying campaigns, and promoting inclusivity and diversity in combat sports worldwide.
9. Has Aguilar competed after her UFC tenure and what were her results?
After leaving the UFC, Aguilar continued to compete in Invicta FC and other promotions, winning and losing against rising stars, and showing ongoing commitment to her fighting career.
10. What is Aguilar’s legacy and impact on women’s MMA?
Aguilar is regarded as a pioneer, helping popularize women’s MMA before it became mainstream. Her achievements and advocacy have inspired a new generation of fighters and fans.
