Inaugural UFC Flyweight Queen Nicco Montano Honored by Navajo Nation Council

Nicco Montano was the underdog story of “The Ultimate Fighter 26,” as she emerged from the reality show to become the UFC’s inaugural female flyweight champion.

Due to her achievement, Montano was recently honored by the 23rd Navajo Nation Council, according to a report from The Navajo Post. The 29-year-old FIT-NHB representative is a member of the Navajo Nation from the community of Lukachukai.

Accompanied by her family, Montano received a plaque on the Council Chamber floor from Council Delegate Tom Chee and Speaker Lorenzo Bates. She then thanked her supporters and received a gift from Bates.

“In the midst of all of our challenges, there are always special people who find a way to inspire and uplift us,” Chee said. “It is an honor to have the UFC champion with us today and it warms our hearts to know that you come from Lukachukai – from the Navajo Nation.”

Montano entered the “TUF 26” house with a 3-2 professional mark. She was seeded No. 14 out of 16 but made her way to the finals with victories over Lauren Murphy, Montana Stewart and Barb Honchak. At the “TUF 26” finale on Dec. 1, Montano took a five-round verdict over veteran Roxanne Modafferi to claim 125-pound gold.