I just noticed something interesting happening in MMA at the Argentine level. The Argentine fighters' delegation in UFC has reached its highest point: six active contracts with the company. But what really stands out is that two of those six are women, and they are sending a very strong message about what gender means in mixed martial arts.

I spoke with Sofía Montenegro and Ailín Pérez, the two Argentinians currently competing at the elite level of MMA in UFC. Both have stories that make you rethink what sacrifice and determination really mean. Sofía, nicknamed 'The Witch,' overcame weight issues, bullying, and insecurities. She said it herself with a clarity that hits you: "That person I was before, overweight, was very brave and brought me to where I am now." Her message is direct: "Winning and losing are not in our hands, but every time you watch one of my fights, I want it to be legendary."

On the other hand is Ailín, ranked number 7 in the world in the women's bantamweight division. Fiona, as she's nicknamed, is the complete opposite in terms of personality on screen, but just as serious when talking about the sport. She comes from a very humble neighborhood, and her message to other women is forceful: "If I could do it, all of you can." But she doesn't say it naively. She knows the path is difficult, requiring constant mental and physical preparation.

What surprises me is how both see the future beyond their own careers. Ailín wants to have a team of champion women. Sofía gets up at 7 a.m. and leaves the gym at 5 p.m., living only to train. Both understand that MMA changed their lives, and they want other women to have that opportunity.

Before them was Silvana Gómez Juárez, 'The Evil,' who opened the door in 2018 as the first Argentine woman in UFC. Silvana was clear on something important: MMA not only teaches self-defense but also strengthens self-esteem. That was her legacy.

Now, what both recognize is that this requires serious investment. It’s not cheap. Ailín was direct: "I spent a lot of money on camps, but it was an investment. If I have to invest all my money to be a champion, I will because it will stay with me for life." Sofía sees it similarly: time and energy are the highest costs, but financial investment is essential.

What’s interesting is that more and more women are daring to enter MMA, both at amateur and professional levels. Ailín observes that when she started, only Silvana was around, and there was very little information. Now there are more fighters reaching UFC, and that creates a cascade effect: more visibility, more inspiration, more competitors.

This Saturday at Arena CDMX, there will be UFC Fight Night with 13 fights. Ailín will be on the card facing Macy Chiasson. Sofía was originally going to debut but had to postpone due to a medical issue. In any case, the movement is clear: Argentine women are making noise in the MMA elite, and their message goes beyond winning or losing. It’s about opening doors, changing lives, and proving that sacrifice has its reward.