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Raquel Pennington UFC Bantamweight Championship Ring

by | Last updated Apr 30, 2025 | Baron Rings

“I’m grateful. I’m blessed. I’m successful. I’ve dreamed big and accomplished everything this far. I have always bet on myself and look where it has got me,” said Raquel Pennington.

Experience the journey of UFC Bantamweight Champion Raquel Pennington and the creation of her MMA Championship Ring by Baron® Championship Rings. From her hard-fought victory at UFC 297 to exclusive insights on her career, resilience, and legacy—discover the story behind the champion and her one-of-a-kind MMA Championship Ring.

March 1, 2025 — Raquel Pennington’s 14-year journey as an MMA fighter culminated in her becoming the UFC Bantamweight Champion on January 20, 2024. Raquel defeated Mayra Bueno Silva (10-3-1) by unanimous decision at UFC 297 during the event held at the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, winning the women’s Bantamweight Championship title.

The title was vacated in June when Amanda Nunes, the reigning Champion, announced her retirement after her victory over Irene Aldana at UFC 289. Raquel Pennington (16-8) has been on an impressive roll since her loss to Holly Holm in January 2020. Following that setback, she has dominated an impressive six-match winning streak.

Baron® Championship Rings proudly thanks Raquel Pennington for the incredible opportunity to design and create a custom Championship Ring for the UFC Bantamweight Championship title.

In celebration of the Annual National Girls & Women In Sports Day in February 2025, Raquel Pennington has participated in a Q&A session with Baron®.

We also extend our sincere appreciation to Raquel for sharing this exclusive Q&A, where she provides invaluable insights into her journey—discussing what initially drew her to MMA, the challenges she has overcome, the rigorous training routines that keep her at the pinnacle of her performance, and the unwavering support system that drives her success.

Read on for the exciting insights!

Raquel Pennington UFC Bantamweight Championship Ring: A Legacy Etched in Gold

Raquel Pennington UFC Bantamweight Championship Ring, expertly crafted by Baron® Championship Rings, stands as a bold testament to her incredible journey, unwavering resilience, and triumphant victory.

Raquel Pennington’s UFC Bantamweight Championship Ring is not just an accessory; it embodies the strength and determination that Raquel has showcased throughout her career.

@raquel_pennington

“BANTAMWEIGHT CHAMPION OF THE WORLD!!! 🏆💪🏼 a 14 year old dream come true! Every mountaintop is within reach if you just keep climbing.”

Raquel Pennington UFC Bantamweight Championship Ring: Raquel Pennington reflects on seeing her UFC Bantamweight Championship Ring for the first time.

Raquel Pennington UFC Bantamweight Championship Ring’s Left Shoulder:

  • The Nickname “Rocky” and a bold Colorado Pride logo honor roots, accompanied by Roman numerals that chronicle the years of battles before achieving Champion status.

2024 Binghamton Black Bears Commissioner’s Cup Championship Ring’s Inside and Shank Engravings:

  • The inside of the ring shows each playoff series result, a “7-0” paired with a broom for the clean postseason sweep, joined by the undefeated “Rally Chair.
  • The Black Bears’ slogan “Your City, Your Team” is engraved on the ring shank.

Raquel Pennington UFC Bantamweight Championship Ring’s Top:

  • The encrusted ring top holds the UFC logo with sparkling diamonds and is framed by the prestigious “World Champion” title wordmarks.

Raquel Pennington UFC Bantamweight Championship Ring’s Right Shoulder:

  •  The right shoulder holds the last name and the powerful verse from Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through him who strengthens me,” anchored by the Toronto skyline, marking the historic UFC 297 event.

 

Raquel Pennington UFC Bantamweight Championship Ring’s Top:

  • The encrusted ring top holds the UFC logo with sparkling diamonds and is framed by the prestigious “World Champion” title wordmarks.

Raquel Pennington UFC Bantamweight Championship Ring’s Left Shoulder:

  •  The Nickname “Rocky” and a bold Colorado Pride logo honor roots, accompanied by Roman numerals that chronicle the years of battles before achieving Champion status.

Raquel Pennington UFC Bantamweight Championship Ring’s Right Shoulder:

  • The right shoulder holds the last name and the powerful verse from Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through him who strengthens me,” anchored by the Toronto skyline, marking the historic UFC 297 event.

Raquel Pennington UFC Bantamweight Championship Ring’s Engravings:

  • The inside engraving features the flags of both fighters’ countries along with the year and the wordmarks “Unanimous Decision,” paying homage to the Bantamweight title fight and the Championship victory.
  • The shank is adorned with two pristine white stones, symbolizing daughter Alayah and wife Tecia, while a bold red stone in the center represents the resilient spirit of being a fighter.

“It’s 14 years of hard work coming together,” Raquel Pennington said during the post-fight news conference.

Baron® Championship Rings Presents: Raquel Pennington UFC Bantamweight Championship Ring and Details– Top: The encrusted ring top holds the UFC logo with sparkling diamonds and is framed by the prestigious “World Champion” title wordmarks.

Raquel’s Journey to the UFC Bantamweight Championship Title

Raquel “Rocky” Pennington

Raquel “Rocky” Pennington, born on September 5, 1988, in Colorado Springs, Colorado, is an elite American mixed martial artist making her mark in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) women’s bantamweight division.

As of October 8, 2024, she dominates the rankings as the #1 contender in the UFC women’s bantamweight category and commands attention as the #9 fighter in the women’s pound-for-pound rankings as of November 26, 2024. (Raquel “Rocky” Pennington Wikipedia)

“I have climbed mountains to get back here,” Raquel said after her victory. “For everybody who’s chasing a dream and you have people telling you, ‘You can’t do it, you’re not good enough’—stay believing because that’s exactly what I did.”

UFC Bantamweight Champion

Raquel Pennington’s Career Highlights

UFC Bantamweight Champion: Pennington achieved a significant milestone by winning the vacant UFC Women’s Bantamweight Championship at UFC 297 on January 20, 2024, defeating Mayra Bueno Silva by unanimous decision. (Edited to: Raquel Pennington made history by claiming the vacant UFC Women’s Bantamweight Championship at UFC 297 on January 20, 2024. She decisively defeated Mayra Bueno Silva by unanimous decision, showcasing her dominance in the octagon.)(Vacant UFC Women’s Bantamweight Championship title by OutSports)

“It’s been a long five years. I have climbed mountains to get back here,” said Raquel Pennington.

Raquel’s Championship Moment: UFC 297 Post-Fight Interview

Minutes after being crowned the UFC Bantamweight Champion, Raquel Pennington stood in the octagon, emotional yet triumphant, as she spoke with Daniel Cormier.

“I don’t know, it feels surreal. Canada, what’s up!” she exclaimed, addressing the roaring crowd.

She went on to thank her coaches, teammates, and family, acknowledging the long five-year journey back to the title. As she put on the legendary gold Champion’s shirt, the weight of her achievement truly sank in.

UFC Championship Title Defense

UFC Championship Title Defense

Raquel Pennington made her first title defense against Julianna Peña at UFC 307 on October 5, 2024. Despite a strong effort, Pennington lost the fight by unanimous decision, leading to Peña regaining the bantamweight title. (UFC 307 by MMA Fighting)

Raquel Pennington’s Personal Life

Pennington is married to fellow UFC fighter Tecia Torres. The couple made history as the first openly gay married couple to compete on the same UFC card, sharing this unique experience at UFC 307. (UFC 307 by talkSPORT)

Fighting Style and Reputation

Known for her resilience and well-rounded skill set, Pennington has been a formidable presence in the bantamweight division. Her journey reflects determination and perseverance, earning her respect within the MMA community.

Recent Developments

As of January 2025, Pennington remains a top contender in the bantamweight division, with fans and analysts anticipating her next move in pursuit of regaining the Championship.

Inside the Mind of a Champion: Raquel Pennington’s Journey in Her Own Words

Raquel Pennington’s road to becoming the UFC Bantamweight Champion has been nothing short of extraordinary. From overcoming adversity to breaking barriers in a once male-dominated sport, she has built a legacy defined by resilience, passion, and authenticity.

In this exclusive Q&A, Raquel shares personal insights into her journey—what first drew her to MMA, the challenges she faced, the training routines that keep her at the top, and the unwavering support system that fuels her success.

She also reflects on her proudest moments, the mental strength required to compete at the highest level, and what it means to be a role model for the next generation of fighters.

Get a rare glimpse into the mindset of a champion as Raquel opens up about her career, her future goals, and the powerful symbolism behind her Championship Ring by Baron® Championship Ring.

Inspiration: What initially drew you to the world of mixed martial arts, and who were some of the key role models that inspired you?  

Raquel: I’ve been an athlete my whole life. I broke my back my senior year and couldn’t take my athletic scholarships, so I took an academic one to the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs. During that time I was going through rehab and recovering. My mom and I were at the gym lifting and the first team I started with was training in a little yoga studio.

It looked intense so I was joking with my mom about trying it and at that point I think she figured anything to get me motivated again would be good. We went and spoke with the coach and he explained the sport.

The next day I tried my first session which happened to be sparring and I fell in love.

Challenges: What are some of the unique challenges you’ve faced as a woman in combat sports, and how have you overcome them?

Raquel: Being in what used to be a male dominated sport I was always cut down for being a female. Always heard ‘Females can’t fight, I’m too pretty to fight, I should be at home cooking for someone, I will never get anywhere in this sport, or that I’m a joke’.

Also, when I first started in 2010 there wasn’t a huge range of other female fighters so it was hard to find fights and competition.

Training: Can you share any specific routines or rituals that you feel are essential to your success as an athlete?

Raquel: As an athlete, it’s important to find balance in training as well as recovery. People think the work is always the physical grind but rest is just as, if not more important and during that time you can focus on mental training. Another thing is nutrition. This is a weight cutting sport. Finding the right routine and doing things safely.

A consistent training schedule. For me, I enjoy breaking down every aspect of the sport and then once a week putting it all together. I’m also about brain health and this is a dangerous game with that. So I do not spar unless I am in camp or helping others with their camps.

Support System: How important has your support system—family, friends, and coaches—been in your journey?

Raquel: Support is everything. Your environment plays a huge part in your mental and emotional state. So surrounding yourself with the right crowds. Keep solid boundaries for yourself.

Always believe in yourself first and foremost and then count your blessings of all the love and support around you. I’m so blessed with such a supportive family and great group of friends. Also my coaches are my second family.

Those relationships are built off of trust and we embrace the journey together all out of passion and the best of intentions.

Representation: What does it mean to you to be a visible figure for women in combat sports, and how do you hope to inspire the next generation?

Raquel: It’s everything! I will always remain authentic to who I am as a person. I think of the younger kids that look up to me every day and then to the adults. My representation reflects that. Having fun, being passionate and giving my best effort. Staying true to myself, not swayed by money or fame, and gaining attention through authenticity.

I will lose out on sponsors who try to change me and my heart and passion that started this.

Memorable Moments: What has been one of the proudest moments of your career so far?

Raquel: I’ve had a very successful career. To begin on the first season that allowed women, to the first 10 women ever signed to the UFC. Never had anyone to help build my career. I’ve done it all myself as far as managing and finding opportunities and fights. Fighting for a world title twice and becoming the 6th-ever Women’s Bantamweight Champion.

Fighting the first ever MSG card. Holding multiple records in my division and becoming a mama and learning how to navigate being a pro athlete, going through the intensity of fight camp and yet maintains the energy to be the best mama I can be between sessions and on weekends.

Mental Strength: How do you stay mentally prepared and focused for a fight, especially when the stakes are high?

Raquel: I do a lot of sports psychology as well as journaling. On my rest days I enjoy being in nature or doing things that recharge my battery. My motto is to “Have fun, give max effort and embrace the journey.”

You do that and the majority of the time the outcome becomes what you desire most. There will always be pressure and emotion but the work has been put in every day. I focus on the things I can control and just try my best.

Advice: What advice would you give to young women who are interested in pursuing a career in MMA or other sports?

Raquel: Always believe in yourself. There are always going to be doubters and haters. Stay true to your own heart and your happiness because at the end of the day that’s what matters. If you have a dream, chase it. Have fun, give your best effort and never give up. Life isn’t a straight line and will throw curve balls at you. So embrace the journey and keep climbing.

Future Goals: What are your personal and professional goals moving forward in your career?

Raquel: To get my world title back and retire as a Champion after a successful defense. Go on to coach all the up and coming talent. Own a gym. Personally, I’m into real estate so own a minimum of 20 properties. Have more kids and slow down in life and cherish all the precious moments. Support my kids in what sets their souls on fire and travel the world.

Championship Ring: The ring created by Baron® Championship Rings was a special milestone in your career. What were your thoughts when you saw it, and what does it symbolize for you?

Raquel: I was speechless. To really sit down and reflect on my accomplishments brought the greatest sense of being proud of myself.

Sometimes we get so caught up we forget to truly reflect on everything we accomplish as individuals. I’m grateful. I’m blessed. I’m successful. I’ve dreamed big and accomplished everything this far.

I have always bet on myself and look where it has got me. That ring is a representation of it all. Not to mention to see everyone’s face when they see it.

The kids around me. My parents, brother, cousins, aunts, uncles, friends. Just warms my heart. My god son made his own little ring to look like mine and just to see the inspiration in his eyes is everything and more!

Raquel Pennington UFC Bantamweight Championship Ring: “Keep believing. Don’t listen to anyone who try’s to knock you down along the way and remember your hardest climb will be within yourself anyways.” – Raquel Pennington

Bonus: Raquel’s UFC 297 Post-Fight Interview Thoughts

Reflecting on her performance, she admitted, “I expected to come out here and do a lot more, be a lot different, but a fight’s a fight. Maya was tough.” She emphasized the mental strength needed in moments of exhaustion.

“It’s not as easy as everybody might think… but I went out there and I didn’t give up on myself.”

Raquel Pennington UFC Bantamweight Championship Ring

Raquel Pennington’s journey to the UFC Bantamweight Championship stands as a testament to resilience, perseverance, and self-belief. From overcoming obstacles and doubters to climbing back to the top of the division, she has proven that with dedication and passion, dreams can be achieved.

Raquel Pennington’s 2024 UFC Bantamweight Championship Ring, crafted by Baron® Championship Rings, symbolizes the years of hard work, sacrifice, and unwavering determination that led to this moment. As she continues to inspire the next generation of fighters,

In celebration of the Annual National Girls and Women in Sports Day in February 2025, Raquel’s inspiring story reinforces the belief that you should always have confidence in yourself, fully embrace your journey, and never give up.

Girls & Women Athletes: Celebrate Your Championship Legacy!

Design your custom Championship Ring today and make your legacy shine in gold!

Just like Raquel Pennington’s journey to UFC gold, every victory deserves to be honored. Baron® Championship Rings is proud to celebrate female athletes and Champions on National Girls & Women in Sports Day with custom-designed Championship Rings that embody strength, resilience, and achievement. Design your custom Championship Ring today and etch your legacy in gold!

Get started now to craft a Championship Ring that perfectly embodies the boldness of your victory!

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#yourjourney #yourmoment #yourlegacy

Q&A Session | Story Of The Ring
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