Jessica Penne is a renowned mixed martial artist who has left a lasting mark on the MMA world. Known for her technical skills and resilience, she has competed in top promotions like Bellator, Invicta FC, and the UFC.
Below is a breakdown of her personal life, career, earnings, and more.
Jessica Penne’s Biography
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jessica Marie Penne |
| Nickname | N/A |
| Date of Birth | January 30, 1983 |
| Age | 41 years |
| Birthplace | Newport Beach, California, USA |
| College | California State University, Fullerton (BA in Communications) |
| Religion | N/A |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 5 ft 5 in (165 cm) |
| Turned Pro | 2006 |
| Net Worth | Estimated $800,000 |
| Salary (Per Fight) | Varies; generally between $20,000–$50,000 (excluding bonuses) |
| Spouse/Relationship Status | Single |
| Instagram Profile | @jessicapenne |
Early Career
Jessica Penne began her martial arts journey in 2002 with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, earning a black belt under Lucas Leite.
She transitioned to professional MMA in 2006, competing in smaller promotions before gaining recognition in Bellator and Invicta FC.
Her early success included becoming the first Invicta FC Atomweight Champion.
Professional Career
Penne’s career took off when she joined Invicta FC and later transitioned to the UFC.
She made her UFC debut in December 2014 at The Ultimate Fighter: A Champion Will Be Crowned Finale, winning a split decision against Randa Markos.
She also challenged Joanna Jędrzejczyk for the UFC Women’s Strawweight Championship in 2015 but lost via TKO.
Over the years, Penne has showcased her grappling prowess with numerous submission wins and has been part of notable fights against elite opponents like Michelle Waterson and Karolina Kowalkiewicz.
Despite setbacks due to injuries and suspensions, she remains a respected figure in women’s MMA.
Jessica Penne’s Net Worth Details
Jessica Penne’s net worth is estimated to be $800,000 as of 2025. Her earnings stem from fight purses, performance bonuses, sponsorships, and endorsements.
Fight Purses
Here’s an overview of some of Jessica Penne’s fight purses:
| Opponent | Event | Year | Purse (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Karolina Kowalkiewicz | UFC 265 | 2021 | $40,000 (including bonuses) |
| Lupita Godinez | UFC on ESPN | 2021 | $33,000 |
| Joanna Jędrzejczyk | UFC Fight Night 69 | 2015 | $50,000 |
Endorsements
Jessica Penne has collaborated with several brands throughout her career. Some notable endorsements include:
- Reebok (during the UFC-Reebok deal era)
Career Records
Jessica Penne’s MMA record stands at approximately 14 wins and 8 losses as of late 2024. Below is a table highlighting some of her notable opponents:
| Opponent | Result | Event | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Joanna Jędrzejczyk | Loss via TKO | UFC Fight Night 69 | 2015 |
| Karolina Kowalkiewicz | Win via Submission | UFC 265 | 2021 |
| Michelle Waterson | Loss via Decision | Invicta FC | 2013 |
FAQs
1. In which MMA organizations has Jessica Penne competed during her career?
Penne has fought for Invicta FC, Bellator, and the UFC, establishing herself as one of the pioneers of women’s strawweight and atomweight divisions in mixed martial arts.
2. What are Penne’s achievements and titles in MMA?
Penne became the inaugural Invicta FC atomweight champion and later challenged for the UFC strawweight world title, earning respect for her longevity and skill across two weight classes.
3. What is Penne’s professional MMA record and finishing capability?
She has earned more than 14 professional wins, with a balanced mix of submission and decision victories, showing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu prowess, especially against highly ranked foes.
4. When did Penne fight for the UFC strawweight title and who was her opponent?
Penne challenged Joanna Jędrzejczyk for the UFC strawweight championship in June 2015 in Berlin, Germany, giving her career’s highest-profile moment on the global stage.
5. What fighting style and skills define Penne’s approach in the octagon?
Penne relies on grappling, transitions, and submission attacks. Her ground control, guard work, and ability to lock in armbars and chokes have made her dangerous in every scramble.
6. How did Penne’s early career influence her later UFC success?
She competed successfully as an atomweight, capturing the Invicta title and earning a reputation for technical ground fighting, which paved her way for a UFC contract and division leadership.
7. What challenges or setbacks has Penne overcome in her career?
Penne has battled through injuries, long suspensions, and tough losing streaks. Despite setbacks, she returned to secure UFC wins after years away, earning widespread respect for resilience.
8. What are Penne’s contributions to women’s MMA outside of competition?
She has coached, mentored younger fighters, and appeared on “The Ultimate Fighter” reality show, helping grow the visibility and professionalism of women’s divisions in MMA.
9. Did Penne face any major controversies or notable rivalries in fighting?
She contended with a lengthy suspension due to anti-doping issues but maintained her innocence and fought through appeals, returning triumphantly to UFC competition after nearly four years out.
10. What is Penne’s current status and legacy in MMA?
Penne is seen as a pioneer for strawweight and atomweight women, respected for technical grappling and resilience. Whether competing or coaching, she remains a significant figure in women’s MMA history.
