Marina Spasić

When and why did you start training for fighting? I started training kickboxing when I was 17 years old, and I fell in love with combat sports from the very beginning. In 2020, I made the transition to MMA, and I’ve been fully committed to the sport ever since.

What does it mean for you to fight for the UFC? It’s the realization of my dream.

Who is your favorite fighter and why? Valentina Shevchenko. I’ve been following her since her kickboxing days. I admire the way she has dedicated her life to this sport, and despite all of her success, she still manages to make time for her family and friends. She has found the perfect balance, and that’s something I truly respect.

Do you have any heroes outside of fighting? I don’t have any heroes. My faith in God is all I need.

What are your current ranks in martial arts? Blue Belt in BJJ

Specific accomplishments in pro competition: WKN International Kickboxing Champion, K-1 Grand Prix winner, and Balkan Kickboxing Champion.

What fight do you consider to be the key fight in your career and why? The second-to-last fight of my career, where I suffered my first professional loss, was the most important one. It taught me a lot, and I came back from that defeat as a stronger person. I made key changes in my life, and they helped me grow both as an athlete and as a person.

Is there a cause that you want to use your platform for? I want to inspire children—especially girls and women—to believe in themselves and pursue their dreams.

Beyond a championship or money, what motivates you? I want to leave a lasting legacy in this sport and make the world a better place than I found it. I want children to look up to me, and one day, I hope to help them build a better life through sports, just as I have.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I graduated from high school and earned a college degree in physical therapy.

What was your job before you started fighting? When I was younger, I worked as a massage therapist so I could afford my training. Later, I started coaching children. Three years ago, I opened my own gym, which I now run together with my boyfriend, called “Striker Team.”

Favorite grappling technique: Arm triangle choke.

Favorite striking technique: Left uppercut to the body.

Tell us about your life outside of fighting: I enjoy coaching at my gym and spending time with my boyfriend and my closest friends. I also love being an aunt and spending time with my nephews. I love the ocean, reading books, eating good food, and traveling after my fights and victories.