Holly Holm is an American mixed martial artist and former professional boxer with an estimated net worth of $4 million.
Widely regarded as one of the most accomplished female combat athletes of all time, Holm built her wealth through championship success in boxing, a historic UFC title reign, fight purses, bonuses, sponsorships, and media appearances.
Her rare achievement of winning world titles in both boxing and MMA places her in an elite category within combat sports history.
Early Life And Athletic Background
Holly Rene Holm was born on October 17, 1981, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The youngest of three children, she grew up in an active household led by her mother, Tammy, a massage therapist, and her father, Roger, a preacher.
From a young age, Holm displayed exceptional athletic versatility, participating in soccer, gymnastics, swimming, and diving.
After graduating from Manzano High School in 2000, Holm spent a year studying at the University of New Mexico.
During this period, her focus increasingly shifted toward combat sports, laying the foundation for a career that would later redefine women’s fighting on a global scale.
Amateur Kickboxing Foundations
Holm’s combat journey began in amateur kickboxing, where she quickly established herself as a standout talent.
In 2001, she captured the USA National Amateur Championship in the International Rules Adult Women’s Welterweight division.
This early success showcased her technical striking, discipline, and competitive edge qualities that would become trademarks throughout her career.
Professional Boxing Career And Championships
Turning professional in 2002, Holm embarked on a dominant boxing career that spanned more than a decade.
She compiled an exceptional 33–2–3 record, winning world championships across three weight divisions.
Along the way, she held titles from major sanctioning bodies, including the WBA, WBC, IFBA, IBA, and WBF.
Holm was named Ring Magazine’s Female Fighter of the Year in both 2005 and 2006, cementing her status as the sport’s premier female boxer of her era.
In 2008, she became the undisputed welterweight champion, holding belts from 140 to 154 pounds simultaneously.
Her success, longevity, and technical mastery ultimately earned her induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame.
She retired from professional boxing in 2013, closing that chapter with a reputation as one of the greatest female boxers in history.
Transition To MMA And UFC Breakthrough
While still boxing, Holm began training in mixed martial arts and made her MMA debut in 2011. She quickly found success, remaining undefeated before signing with the UFC in 2014.
Her polished footwork and counterattacking style translated seamlessly into the cage.
Holm’s defining MMA moment came at UFC 193 in 2015, when she shocked the world by knocking out undefeated champion Ronda Rousey with a head kick.
The victory earned her the UFC Women’s Bantamweight Championship and made her the first athlete to win world titles in both boxing and MMA.
Although she lost the title in her first defense against Miesha Tate, Holm remained a consistent title contender, competing for championships in the bantamweight and featherweight divisions against elite opponents such as Valentina Shevchenko, Cris Cyborg, and Amanda Nunes.
Later UFC Career And Retirement
From 2017 onward, Holm transitioned into a respected veteran role while continuing to compete at the highest level.
She secured notable wins over fighters like Megan Anderson, Raquel Pennington, Irene Aldana, Julianna Peña, and Yana Kunitskaya.
Despite controversial decisions and injuries, Holm’s professionalism and adaptability kept her relevant deep into her career.
In 2024, Holly Holm officially announced her retirement from MMA, concluding a legendary run across two combat sports and leaving behind a legacy defined by discipline, resilience, and historic achievement.
Earnings, Income Sources, And Net Worth Growth
Holly Holm’s net worth of approximately $4 million stems from multiple revenue streams:
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Championship boxing purses and title defenses
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UFC fight salaries and performance bonuses
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Pay-per-view appearances
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Sponsorships and endorsements
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Film and media projects, including her role in Fight Valley
While she never relied on flashy promotion, Holm’s consistency, longevity, and championship pedigree allowed her to build sustainable wealth over time.
Personal Life And Media Appearances
Holm married Jeff Kirkpatrick in 2012, and the couple separated in 2019. Outside the cage, she has appeared in film and remains a respected voice within combat sports, often praised for her professionalism, humility, and influence on women’s MMA.
Legacy And Impact On Combat Sports
Holly Holm’s career stands as a benchmark for crossover success between boxing and MMA.
Her historic upset of Ronda Rousey remains one of the most iconic moments in UFC history, while her boxing résumé ranks among the best for female fighters.
Holm’s influence extends beyond titles—she helped elevate the credibility, visibility, and technical standards of women’s combat sports worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Holly Holm win titles in both boxing and MMA?
Yes. She won multiple world championships in boxing and captured the UFC Women’s Bantamweight Championship in 2015.
What is Holly Holm most famous for?
She is best known for knocking out Ronda Rousey at UFC 193 and becoming the first athlete to win world titles in both boxing and MMA.
Is Holly Holm retired?
Yes. Holly Holm announced her retirement from MMA in 2024 after a historic career across two combat sports.