The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is a brutal proving ground for the world’s toughest combat athletes.
Size and reach often play a significant role in determining success, but some fighters defy expectations, proving that skill and determination can overcome physical limitations.
This article delves into the fascinating world of the shortest competitors in the UFC. It also showcases their journeys and highlights the importance of technique and resilience in mixed martial arts (MMA).
Shortest UFC FighterWho is the Shortest UFC Fighter
Hector Sandoval holds the distinction of being the shortest male fighter in UFC history. Listed at a mere 5’3″ (160 cm), Sandoval hails from Tijuana, Mexico, a city known for its rich boxing tradition.
Despite his diminutive stature, Sandoval found his calling in MMA, developing a well-rounded skillset that included powerful striking and a tenacious grappling style.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Hector Sandoval, born on July 19, 1986, is a Mexican mixed martial artist. He competed in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and currently fights in the flyweight division.
At 5 ft 2 in (1.57 m), he is the shortest fighter in UFC history. Sandoval was born in Uruapan, Michoacán, Mexico, and moved to Ukiah, California, as a child.
He started training in mixed martial arts in 2006 when he was 19 years old.
In July 2008, Sandoval had his professional debut. He had a record of 12–2 in California’s regional scene, including fights for Palace Fighting Championship and Tachi Palace Fights.
He signed with the UFC in June 2016 after winning four fights in a row.
UFC Career Highlights
Sandoval’s UFC tenure, though brief, was action-packed. He went 2-2 inside the octagon, with all his bouts ending inside the distance.
His debut win against Phillippe Lins showcased his explosive punching power, while his submission victory over Yoshiyuki Yasuhiro displayed his grappling prowess.
However, he also suffered defeats to talented fighters like Sergio Pettis and Ray Borg.
Net Worth and Personal Life
Unfortunately, reliable information regarding Hector Sandoval’s current net worth is unavailable.
Unlike some high-profile UFC stars, Sandoval likely didn’t receive significant pay-per-view bonuses during his time with the organization.
Still, his fighting career undoubtedly provided him with financial opportunities and a platform to showcase his skills.
Details about Sandoval’s personal life also remain largely private.
Top 10 Shortest Male UFC Fighters (As of March 24, 2024)
- Hector Sandoval (Mexico) – 5’3″ (160 cm)
- Jose Alberto Costa (Brazil) – 5’3″ (160 cm)
- Demetrious Johnson (USA) – 5’3″ (160 cm) Flyweight Champion (2012-2018)
- Ian McCall (USA) – 5’4″ (163 cm)
- Joseph Benavidez (USA) – 5’4″ (163 cm)
- Danny Martinez (USA) – 5’4″ (163 cm)
- Jussier Formiga (Brazil) – 5’4″ (163 cm)
- Alexandre Pantoja (Brazil) – 5’4″ (163 cm)
- Zhu Rong (China) – 5’4″ (163 cm)
- Alex Perez (USA) – 5’4″ (163 cm)
Shortest Female UFC Fighter
Montserrat Ruiz holds the title for shortest female UFC fighter at 5’0″ tall. Ruiz competes in the straw-weight division, the smallest weight class for female fighters.
The women’s divisions in the UFC showcase equally impressive fighters who have overcome physical limitations.
Top Ten Shortest Female UFC Fighters
- Montserrat Ruiz (Mexico) – 5’0″ (152 cm) Strawweight Contender
- Weili Zhang (China) – 5’2″ (157 cm) Strawweight Champion (2019)
- Carla Esparza (USA) – 5’2″ (157 cm) Strawweight Champion (2015)
- Tecia Torres (USA) – 5’2″ (157 cm)
- Jessica Andrade (Brazil) – 5’2″ (157 cm) Former Strawweight Champion (2019)
- Alexa Grasso (Mexico) – 5’2″ (157 cm)
- Michelle Waterson (USA) – 5’2″ (157 cm)
- Yan Xiaonan (China) – 5’2″ (157 cm)
- Marina Rodriguez (Brazil) – 5’2″ (157 cm)
- Nina Nunes (Brazil) – 5’2″ (157 cm)