Marion Reneau, known as “The Belizean Bruiser,” made her mark in the world of mixed martial arts as a formidable competitor in the UFC’s women’s bantamweight division.
Her journey from high school teacher to professional fighter captivated fans and showcased the power of determination and late-blooming athletic prowess.
Let’s dive into the life and career of this remarkable athlete.
Marion Reneau’s Biography
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Marion Reneau |
| Nickname | The Belizean Bruiser |
| Born | June 20, 1977 |
| Age | 47 |
| College | California State University, Long Beach |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 5’6″ (168 cm) |
| Turned Pro | 2010 |
| Net Worth | Approximately $5 million |
| Instagram Profile | @marion_reneau |
Marion Reneau’s journey in MMA began later in life compared to many of her peers.
She balanced her fighting career with her role as a high school physical education teacher, showcasing her dedication to both education and athletics.
Early Career
Marion Reneau’s athletic background began in track and field at California State University, Long Beach, where she was named the Big West Women’s Track & Field Athlete of the Year.
After college, she initially pursued Olympic dreams in track but an injury and pregnancy redirected her path. Reneau discovered MMA in her early 30s, using it as a way to stay fit and eventually transitioning to professional competition in 2010.
Professional Career
Reneau’s professional MMA career took off in 2010, quickly gaining attention for her submission skills and striking power. She competed in various regional promotions before catching the eye of the UFC.
In 2015, at age 37, Reneau made her UFC debut, showcasing that it’s never too late to pursue one’s dreams. Her UFC career was marked by notable victories over fighters like Jessica Andrade and Sara McMann.
Reneau became known for her resilience and ability to threaten both on the feet and on the ground, earning her the respect of opponents and fans alike.
Husband
Marion Reneau is married to Armando Perez Jr. The couple has been supportive of each other’s endeavors, with Perez becoming one of Reneau’s biggest supporters in her fighting career.
Reneau has a son from a previous relationship, who has been a significant motivation for her throughout her career.
Marion Reneau’s Net Worth Details
Marion Reneau’s net worth is estimated to be $5 million as of 2025. This figure reflects her earnings from her UFC career, sponsorships, and her work as a gym owner.
Since retiring from active competition, Reneau has focused on running her gym, Trifecta MMA, which has contributed to her overall financial success.
Fight Purses
| Event | Opponent | Purse |
|---|---|---|
| UFC 182 | Alexis Dufresne | $20,000 (including $10,000 win bonus) |
| UFC Fight Night 61 | Jessica Andrade | $70,000 (including $10,000 win bonus and $50,000 Performance of the Night bonus) |
| UFC Fight Night 71 | Holly Holm | $18,000 |
| UFC on ESPN: Makhachev vs. Moisés | Miesha Tate | $200,000 |
Endorsements
- Reebok (during UFC partnership)
- Venum (post-Reebok UFC deal)
Career Records
| Opponent | Result | Event | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miesha Tate | Loss | UFC on ESPN: Makhachev vs. Moisés | July 17, 2021 |
| Sara McMann | Win | UFC on Fox: Emmett vs. Stephens | February 24, 2018 |
| Jessica Andrade | Win | UFC Fight Night: Bigfoot vs. Mir | February 22, 2015 |
| Holly Holm | Loss | UFC Fight Night: Mir vs. Duffee | July 15, 2015 |
| Cat Zingano | Loss | UFC Fight Night: dos Santos vs. Ivanov | July 14, 2018 |
FAQs
1. When did Marion Reneau start her professional MMA career?
Marion Reneau began her professional MMA career in 2010 at the age of 33.
2. What was Marion Reneau’s nickname in the UFC?
Marion Reneau’s nickname in the UFC was “The Belizean Bruiser.”
3. How many fights did Marion Reneau have in the UFC?
Marion Reneau fought 13 times in the UFC, with a record of 5-7-1.
4. What was Marion Reneau’s profession before becoming a full-time fighter?
Before focusing on MMA full-time, Marion Reneau was a high school physical education teacher at Farmersville High School in California for 17 years.
5. What is Marion Reneau’s most notable achievement in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?
Marion Reneau is a 9-time Master World IBJJF Champion at the Black Belt level.
6. When did Marion Reneau retire from professional MMA?
Marion Reneau retired from professional MMA after her fight on July 17, 2021, at UFC on ESPN: Makhachev vs. Moisés.
7. What is Marion Reneau doing after retiring from MMA?
After retiring, Marion Reneau focuses on running her gym, Trifecta MMA, and travels throughout California as a keynote speaker at high schools.
8. What was Marion Reneau’s highest ranking in the UFC women’s bantamweight division?
Marion Reneau’s highest ranking in the UFC women’s bantamweight division was #6.
9. How many of Marion Reneau’s professional MMA wins were by finish?
Out of Marion Reneau’s 9 professional MMA wins, 8 were by finish (5 by knockout and 3 by submission).
10. What is Marion Reneau’s current Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu rank?
Marion Reneau is currently a 3rd degree Black Belt under Lucas Rocha from Unique Logic BJJ.
