“I just achieved a dream I had since I was a child. I’m where I wanted to be, and I have the best job a fighter could ask for. I feel realized. I feel like a doctor graduating after studying all my life to graduate.” This was Yadier Del Valle right after his debut victory at UFC Fight Night 256 over Connor Matthews in May this year. While Valle may have fulfilled his dream of reaching the UFC, the real challenge now lies in staying there.

To secure his place among the elite, he’ll need to keep winning—and his next test comes against Isaac Dulgarian at UFC Fight Night: Garcia vs. Onama, marking just his second appearance inside the UFC Octagon. Yet, as anticipation builds for the matchup, fans’ curiosity has also turned toward Yadier Del Valle’s roots, eager to learn more about where he comes from and the journey that brought him to the biggest stage in mixed martial arts.

What is Yadier Del Valle’s ethnicity and nationality?

According to reports, the 29-year-old fighter hails from the Caribbean nation of Cuba, a country celebrated for producing world-class athletes across boxing, wrestling, and now mixed martial arts. Beyond sports, Cuba is renowned for its vibrant music, rich dance traditions, and striking natural beauty, all underpinned by a deep revolutionary and political history. While there is no confirmed information about Valle’s ethnicity, Cuba’s diverse heritage—shaped by European colonization, African roots, and indigenous influences—suggests he may have a mixed ethnic background. Born in Ciego de Ávila, Cuba, on July 29, 1996, Valle’s journey reflects his determination.

Reports indicate that he moved to Mexico at the age of 17, where he began training in jiu-jitsu. Two years later, at just 19, he relocated to the United States to continue chasing his dream of joining the UFC. Today, Valle proudly represents both Cuba and the United States on the global stage, honoring his origins while embracing his new home. 

His love for his country is also reflected in his nickname, ‘The Cuban Problem.’ As for his religion, while Christianity is widely practiced in Cuba, Valle has not publicly shared any details about his personal faith.

Yadier Del Valle has a growing resume

Yadier Del Valle’s rise through the ranks of mixed martial arts has been nothing short of impressive. The Cuban-born fighter holds an undefeated professional record of 9-0, proving himself across several promotions before earning his spot in the UFC. Del Valle began his journey on the regional circuit in 2019, where he showcased a versatile skill set—from striking finishes to slick submissions. His early wins in Bayou FC and Fury FC quickly marked him as a well-rounded prospect.

Del Valle continued to climb, claiming notable victories in Combate Global and the Fury Fighting Championship, where he demonstrated poise and power in equal measure. His performances caught the attention of the UFC, and after a unanimous decision win on Dana White’s Contender Series in 2024, he secured a contract with the promotion. With a mix of submission victories, knockouts, and dominant decisions, Yadier Del Valle’s growing resume reflects his adaptability, composure, and readiness for bigger challenges inside the Octagon.

That said, this is just the beginning for Yadier Del Valle. Much bigger challenges await the 29-year-old if he manages to overcome Isaac Dulgarian on Saturday night. Do you think his rise will continue?