Bella Mir, daughter of UFC legend Frank Mir, is carving her own path in MMA while embracing her role in her father’s legacy, with aspirations to compete in the UFC and a potential interest in facing Mya Lesnar to continue their fathers’ rivalry.
Bella Mir has always embraced following in her father’s footsteps. Yet, she’s taken on a unique role in her combat sports journey as Frank Mir’s daughter.
At 22, Bella is prepping for her fourth MMA fight, with dreams of the UFC in her future. While she’s carving her own path, she embraces her role in representing the next generation.
“I think a lot of people want to build their own legacy,” Bella shared with MMA Fighting. “But I love being part of my dad’s [legacy], and he’s part of mine.”
In a playful twist, Bella called out Mya Lesnar, suggesting a fight to settle their fathers’ rivalry. “Mya Lesnar, if you’re ever hearing this, you should train and we could just have a little fight.”
Sometimes, Bella muses about their shared legacy, wishing for a movie about their story. “Your father is a two-time UFC champ, and then you go and take that spot. It’s so cool.”
Her dad remains a huge source of inspiration. He’s often told her she means as much to his legacy as any championship.
Bella acknowledges the expectations of having a famous last name. Yet, she cherishes making her father proud.
“I like being part of his [legacy] more than creating my own,” she admits. “It’s cool to be part of it.”
MMA’s youth as a sport means athletes from championship lineages are just starting to emerge. Bella’s journey mirrors this trend.
While Bella fights, Mya Lesnar shines as a track star, recently becoming a national champion in shot put.
Frank Mir and Brock Lesnar split their UFC battles, creating a lingering rivalry. Bella often gets asked about Mya due to this history.
The heavyweights never settled their trilogy, leaving an intriguing possibility for Bella and Mya.
“It’s funny you say that about Mya Lesnar,” Bella laughed. “I know Dana [White] would approve if Mya was fighting.”
Mya is an athletic powerhouse, though she’s never publicly pursued her father’s sports. Still, Bella sees potential.
“That actually would be crazy,” Bella mused. “Maybe we’re meant to finish that trilogy.”
Regardless, Bella knows more eyes are on her than most athletes. It’s a reality she’s embraced since choosing MMA.
With the UFC always on the lookout for superstars, Bella fits the mold. She’s not shying away from the spotlight.
“Being around my dad, I never feel the pressure,” Bella said. “He’s always taught me, ‘you’re not in my shadow, you’re my legacy.’”
As she eyes the UFC, Bella feels ready. She loves competing and is eager to prove herself on the big stage.