Michelle Waterson-Gomez, known as “The Karate Hottie,” has made a significant impact in the world of mixed martial arts and is now venturing into acting.
Her journey from the Octagon to the silver screen is a testament to her versatility and determination.
This article teaches you about Michelle Waterson-Gomez’s net worth, salary, career earnings, contract, stats, wife, career overview, and more.
Michelle Waterson-Gomez’s Biography
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Michelle Waterson-Gomez |
| Nickname | The Karate Hottie |
| Born | January 6, 1986 |
| Age | 38 |
| College | University of Denver (attended) |
| Religion | – |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 5 feet 3 inches (160 cm) |
| Net Worth | Estimated $700,000 (2024) |
| Salary | $110,000 (base UFC salary) |
| Spouse | Joshua Gomez |
| Relationship Status | Married |
| Instagram Profile | @karatehottiemma |
Early Career
Michelle Waterson-Gomez began her martial arts journey at age 10, karate training.
Her passion for combat sports led her to explore other disciplines, including Wushu, Muay Thai, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Waterson-Gomez made her professional MMA debut in 2007 at Ring of Fire 28, where she secured a unanimous decision victory over Andrea Miller.
Professional Career
Waterson-Gomez’s professional career took off when she signed with Invicta FC in 2012.
She quickly rose through the ranks, capturing the Invicta FC Atomweight Championship in 2013 by defeating Jessica Penne.
Her success in Invicta FC caught the attention of the UFC, and she signed with the promotion in 2015. Waterson-Gomez made her UFC debut with a submission victory over Angela Magana.
Throughout her UFC career, she faced top-tier opponents and established herself as a fan favorite, known for her exciting fighting style and charismatic personality.
Spouse
Michelle Waterson-Gomez is married to Joshua Gomez, who has been a constant support throughout her fighting career.
The couple tied the knot in 2012 and has a daughter named Araya, born in 2011.
Michelle Waterson-Gomez’s Net Worth Details
Michelle Waterson-Gomez’s net worth is estimated to be $700,000 as of 2025.
Fight Purses
| Event | Estimated Earnings |
|---|---|
| UFC 303 (vs. Gillian Robertson) | $125,000 |
| UFC 287 (vs. Luana Pinheiro) | $125,000 |
| UFC Fight Night (vs. Marina Rodriguez) | $80,000 |
| UFC Fight Night (vs. Angela Hill) | $160,000 |
| UFC 249 (vs. Carla Esparza) | $75,000 |
| UFC Fight Night (vs. Joanna Jedrzejczyk) | $75,000 |
| UFC on ESPN (vs. Karolina Kowalkiewicz) | $130,000 |
| UFC 229 (vs. Felice Herrig) | $130,000 |
Endorsements
Michelle Waterson-Gomez has secured several endorsement deals throughout her career, including:
- Drink BodyArmor (sports beverage)
- Reebok (during UFC’s partnership with the brand)
- Trifecta Nutrition (meal delivery service)
- REDCON1 (supplements)
Career Records
| Opponent | Result | Event | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gillian Robertson | Loss | UFC 303 | June 29, 2024 |
| Marina Rodriguez | Loss | UFC Fight Night | September 23, 2023 |
| Luana Pinheiro | Loss | UFC 287 | April 8, 2023 |
| Amanda Lemos | Loss | UFC on ABC | July 16, 2022 |
| Marina Rodriguez | Loss | UFC on ESPN | May 8, 2021 |
| Angela Hill | Win | UFC Fight Night | September 12, 2020 |
| Joanna Jedrzejczyk | Loss | UFC Fight Night | October 12, 2019 |
| Karolina Kowalkiewicz | Win | UFC on ESPN | March 30, 2019 |
FAQs
1. What is Michelle Waterson-Gomez’s fighting style?
Michelle Waterson-Gomez is known for her diverse fighting style, which combines elements of karate, Muay Thai, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Her background in karate earned her the nickname “The Karate Hottie.”
2. Has Michelle Waterson-Gomez appeared in any movies or TV shows?
Yes, Waterson-Gomez has ventured into acting. She appeared in the 2011 film “Fright Night” and has been featured in several documentaries about MMA fighters.
3. What is Michelle Waterson-Gomez’s most significant achievement in MMA?
One of her most significant achievements was winning the Invicta FC Atomweight Championship in 2013, which helped propel her career to new heights.
4. How does Michelle Waterson-Gomez balance her fighting career with motherhood?
Waterson-Gomez has been open about the challenges of balancing her fighting career with being a mother. She often brings her daughter to training sessions and involves her family in her fight preparations.
5. What is Michelle Waterson-Gomez’s educational background?
Waterson-Gomez attended the University of Denver but left to pursue her fighting career full-time.
6. Has Michelle Waterson-Gomez ever competed in other combat sports?
While primarily focused on MMA, Waterson-Gomez has a background in karate competitions and has trained in various martial arts disciplines throughout her career.
7. What is Michelle Waterson-Gomez’s training regimen like?
Waterson-Gomez’s training typically includes a mix of striking, grappling, strength and conditioning, and cardio work. She trains at the renowned Jackson Wink MMA Academy in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
8. Has Michelle Waterson-Gomez ever considered retiring from MMA?
As of 2024, Waterson-Gomez has announced her retirement from professional MMA competition, focusing on her acting career and other ventures.
9. What charitable causes does Michelle Waterson-Gomez support?
Waterson-Gomez has been involved in community outreach programs and has used her platform to promote women’s empowerment in sports.
10. How has Michelle Waterson-Gomez’s career influenced women in MMA?
Waterson-Gomez has been a trailblazer for women in MMA, helping to increase visibility and respect for female fighters in the sport. Her success and marketability have inspired many young women to pursue careers in combat sports.
