Miguel “Caramel Thunder” Baeza is a talented welterweight fighter competing in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).
Known for his exciting fighting style and knockout power, Baeza has quickly become a fan favorite since joining the promotion in 2019.
Let’s take a closer look at this rising MMA star’s career, accomplishments, and personal life.
Miguel Baeza’s Biography
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Miguel Baeza |
| Nickname | Caramel Thunder |
| Born | August 23, 1992 |
| Age | 32 |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 6’2″ (188 cm) |
| Turned Pro | 2015 |
| Net Worth | Estimated $500,000 – $1 million |
| Salary | Varies per fight |
| Relationship Status | Unknown |
| Instagram Profile | @caramel_thunder92 |
Miguel Baeza was born and raised in Florida, United States. He trains out of MMA Masters in Miami, where he has honed his skills to become a formidable competitor in the UFC’s welterweight division.
Early Career
Miguel Baeza’s journey in mixed martial arts began with amateur fights in Florida. He quickly showed promise, compiling an impressive amateur record before turning professional in 2015.
Baeza’s early professional career was marked by a string of victories in regional promotions, showcasing his knockout power and well-rounded skillset.
Baeza’s professional career took a significant leap when he appeared on Dana White‘s Contender Series in June 2019.
Professional Career
He impressed UFC president Dana White with a unanimous decision victory over Victor Reyna, earning himself a contract with the world’s premier MMA organization.
Baeza made his UFC debut in October 2019, scoring a second-round TKO victory over Hector Aldana.
He followed this with two more impressive stoppage wins over Matt Brown and Takashi Sato, establishing himself as a rising prospect in the welterweight division.
However, Baeza faced some setbacks in 2021, suffering his first professional losses to Santiago Ponzinibbio and Khaos Williams.
After a 2-year hiatus due to injuries and other setbacks, Baeza returned to action in 2024, looking to regain his momentum in the competitive 170-pound weight class.
Miguel Baeza’s Net Worth Details
Miguel Baeza’s net worth is estimated to be between $500,000 and $1 million as of 2025. This figure is based on his UFC fight purses, potential bonuses, and any sponsorship deals he may have.
Fight Purses
| Event | Opponent | Purse |
|---|---|---|
| UFC on ESPN 57 (2024) | Punahele Soriano | $60,000 to show |
| UFC on ESPN 34 (2022) | Andre Fialho | $32,000 to show |
| UFC Fight Night: Holloway vs. Rodriguez (2021) | Khaos Williams | $24,000 to show |
| UFC Fight Night: Rozenstruik vs. Sakai (2021) | Santiago Ponzinibbio | $24,000 to show, $50,000 Performance of the Night bonus |
| UFC on ESPN: Smith vs. Clark (2020) | Takashi Sato | $24,000 to show, $24,000 win bonus |
Career Records
| Opponent | Result | Method | Event | Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Punahele Soriano | Loss | Decision (Unanimous) | UFC on ESPN 57 | June 8, 2024 |
| Andre Fialho | Loss | TKO (Punches) | UFC on ESPN 34 | April 16, 2022 |
| Khaos Williams | Loss | TKO (Punches) | UFC Fight Night 197 | November 13, 2021 |
| Santiago Ponzinibbio | Loss | Decision (Unanimous) | UFC Fight Night 189 | June 5, 2021 |
| Takashi Sato | Win | Submission (Arm-Triangle Choke) | UFC on ESPN 18 | November 28, 2020 |
| Matt Brown | Win | TKO (Punches) | UFC on ESPN 8 | May 16, 2020 |
| Hector Aldana | Win | TKO (Leg Kick and Elbows) | UFC Fight Night 161 | October 12, 2019 |
FAQs
What is Miguel Baeza’s fighting style?
Miguel Baeza is primarily known for his striking, particularly his powerful leg kicks and punching combinations. He also has a developing ground game, as evidenced by his submission victory over Takashi Sato.
How did Miguel Baeza get his nickname “Caramel Thunder”?
It likely refers to his explosive fighting style combined with his complexion or heritage.
What was Miguel Baeza’s most impressive UFC victory?
Many consider Baeza’s second-round TKO victory over veteran Matt Brown at UFC on ESPN 8 in May 2020 to be his most impressive win to date.
How long was Miguel Baeza’s undefeated streak before his first loss?
Baeza started his professional career with a 10-fight winning streak, including his first 3 UFC bouts, before suffering his first loss to Santiago Ponzinibbio in June 2021.
What challenges did Miguel Baeza face during his two-year layoff?
During his time away from competition between 2022 and 2024, Baeza dealt with various injuries, including issues with both hamstrings, as well as illnesses that prevented him from fighting.
Has Miguel Baeza competed in any other combat sports besides MMA?
While primarily focused on MMA, Baeza has participated in at least one grappling competition during his time away from the UFC.
What is Miguel Baeza’s educational background?
Unknown about Miguel Baeza’s formal education or college attendance.
How does Miguel Baeza’s height compare to other UFC welterweights?
At 6’2″ (188 cm), Baeza is considered tall for the welterweight division, giving him a reach advantage over many opponents.
What is Miguel Baeza’s walk-out song?
Miguel Baeza’s specific walk-out song is not mentioned, as fighters sometimes change their music choices.
Has Miguel Baeza ever won a UFC performance bonus?
Yes, Miguel Baeza earned a Performance of the Night bonus for his fight against Santiago Ponzinibbio at UFC Fight Night 189 in June 2021, despite losing the bout.
