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CZ
MMA Biography

Cat Zingano

“Alpha”

American flag American · Lafayette, Colorado, USA · Born 1 May 1982

Bantamweight

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American UFC bantamweight contender who challenged Ronda Rousey for the title at UFC 184 after an undefeated run that included finishing Amanda Nunes.

Cat Zingano built an undefeated record in her early professional career, including a notable finish of future champion Amanda Nunes, which established her as one of the top contenders in the UFC's women's bantamweight division. Her rise culminated in a title shot against dominant champion Ronda Rousey at UFC 184 in February 2015. In the title fight, Zingano came out aggressively with a flying knee attempt but was quickly taken down by Rousey, who secured a signature armbar submission in just 14 seconds — at the time the fastest finish in UFC title fight history. Despite the loss, Zingano earned praise for her aggressive approach against an opponent who had dominated every previous challenger. Zingano continued to compete in the bantamweight division over the following years, facing other top contenders including Julianna Pena at UFC 200 following extended layoffs related to injury. She remained a respected veteran presence in the division through a career marked by both talent and persistent physical setbacks. Zingano's fight with Rousey remains a notable moment in women's MMA history, both for the record-setting speed of the finish and for being one of the most anticipated title fights of the Rousey era.

Famous For

Challenging Ronda Rousey for the UFC Women's Bantamweight Championship at UFC 184

Playing Style

How They Played

Aggressive, well-rounded fighter with strong grappling and top pressure

Legacy

Lasting Impact

A respected top contender in the formative years of the UFC's women's bantamweight division

Career Journey

Timeline

2013 🎯 Defeated future champion Amanda Nunes
2015 📌 Challenged Ronda Rousey for the UFC Women's Bantamweight Championship, losing via 14-second armbar
2016 🎯 Returned to competition at UFC 200 against Julianna Pena
FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

4 common questions about Cat Zingano

Cat Zingano was born on 1 May 1982 in Lafayette, Colorado.

Cat Zingano is American.

Cat Zingano challenged Ronda Rousey for the UFC Women's Bantamweight Championship at UFC 184 in 2015.

Yes, Cat Zingano defeated future bantamweight and featherweight champion Amanda Nunes in 2013.