Bella Mir is now part of the UFC family.
On Friday, the promotion announced that they have signed an NIL (name, image, likeness) deal with the fighter that will see Mir serve as a brand ambassador.
Bella is the daughter of former UFC heavyweight champion Frank Mir. The 20-year old, who turned pro in 2020 and has posted a 3-0 record in mixed martial arts, is currently attending the University of Iowa, where she’s a member of the women’s wrestling team.
“Bella was destined to become a member of the UFC family her entire life, and I’m proud that she’s making history as our first NIL ambassador in one of the best programs at the University of Iowa,” UFC President Dana White was quoted as saying in a press release announcing the deal. “She’s a four-time state high school wrestling champion who has won jiu-jitsu tournaments and three professional MMA fights before turning 19. Bella is an incredible role model for young women who are not only looking to get into sports, but also pursue their dreams. She’s on another level, and we can’t wait to see what she does next.”
Previously, NIL deals were banned under NCAA regulations. That changed on July 1, 2021, when the NCAA opened the door for all current and future collegiate athletes to earn money from NIL deals.
Terms of Bella Mir’s deal were not disclosed. That said, Mir will now be able to generate income representing the promotion — and the deal strengthens the likelihood that she will become a second generation UFC fighter some day.
It’s also a historic first for the promotion, who have never before announced an NIL ambassador deal.
“I’m super grateful and I honestly couldn’t be more thankful to Dana and UFC for giving me this opportunity,” said Mir regarding the signing. “I’m going to make sure I do my best to represent UFC and show the world what I’m all about.”
