Intertribal Life Newspaper -

LUKACHUKAI, Ariz.-In December, Navajo tribal member Nicco Montaño defeated Roxanne Modafferi to become the first Navajo Ultimate Fighting Championship Flyweight Champion.

Montaño, who grew up on a Navajo reservation, had considered going back to school and quitting the mixed martial arts sport earlier last year. But then the UFC opened a 125-pound division and assembled a cast of female flyweights for their TUF reality series.

Montaño is one of the least experienced champions in UFC history. After her victory, she immediately acknowledged who she was, where she came from and tied her language into her speech. 

In a post-fight interview Montaño said that she wants to return to Chinle, Tsaile and Lukachukai to remind all the kids that despite hardship "we know how to live off the land, we know how to use the necessities of everything and not just take everything for granted."

On behalf of the Navajo Nation, President Russell Begaye and Vice President Jonathan Nez laud Montaño, say that she has worked hard and earned the title for her dedication to her training.

"Congratulations go to Montaño, her coaches and her family," President Begaye said. "To achieve the belt at the highest level is remarkable. She has earned the title and deserves to be called a champion."

Vice President Nez applauded her for being an inspiration to Navajo people.

"Montaño's achievement is a reminder that there are great athletes on the Navajo Nation," Vice President Nez said. "There are many of our people who are proud of her accomplishment and they look up to her. It reminds us that each of us holds the ability to reach our full potential in life." 

"We are strong, resilient people and I appreciate Montaño for being an inspiration for our Diné people," Vice President Nez added.