Before retiring from competitive MMA to jump over to the entertainment world of WWE, when it comes to the world of combat sports few figures rose as fast into stardom as the talented Valerie Loureda. Here are five facts that paint a vivid picture of the fighter and reveal her passions, background, and resilience both in and out of the cage.
Valerie Loureda via BellatorMMA YouTube
Taekwondo Prodigy
Before delving into MMA, Valerie was deeply entrenched in the world of Taekwondo. Born into a family of martial artists, she started training in the discipline when she was just a toddler. By the age of 20, she had achieved a fourth-degree black belt, showcasing her exceptional talent and dedication to the art.
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Olympic Aspirations
While many know Loureda for her MMA accomplishments, her initial goal was to represent the U.S. in the Olympics for Taekwondo. However, an unfortunate injury dashed her Olympic dreams, leading her to pivot towards MMA. The switch seems to have been the right move, considering her subsequent success in the cage.
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Bellator Breakout
Loureda made a stellar mark in Bellator MMA, capturing attention with her dynamic fighting style. Her debut match against Colby Fletcher at Bellator 216 saw her deliver a stunning TKO victory, solidifying her position as a fighter to watch. Over the years, she’s racked up numerous victories and built a formidable reputation.
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More than Just a Fighter
While her fighting skills are undeniable, Loureda is multifaceted. She’s an accomplished dancer, believing that her dance background contributes to her fluid fighting style. Additionally, she’s been outspoken about the importance of embracing femininity and challenges the stereotype that fighters can’t be feminine or glamorous.
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Influencer and Role Model
With her growing popularity, Valerie has become an influencer in her own right. Her active presence on social media platforms, especially Instagram, showcases her lifestyle, training routines, and her personal journey. Many young women look up to her as a role model, inspired by her commitment, resilience, and ability to break barriers in a predominantly male-dominated sport.
In the high-octane world of MMA, Valerie Loureda stands out not just for her prowess in the cage but also for her personality and values outside of it. Her journey, characterized by passion and determination, serves as an inspiration for many.
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