Chris “Taco”Padilla

Chris Padilla, nicknamed “Taco,” is an American mixed martial artist competing in the UFC’s lightweight division. The UFC lists him as an active fighter who trains at California Mixed Martial Arts. He was born on September 14, 1995, and is listed at 5 feet 9 inches with a 74-inch reach. Padilla began training at age 13 after watching MMA with his brother and cousins, and he made his professional debut in 2014.

Padilla made his UFC debut in April 2024 and established himself as a versatile lightweight. His UFC résumé includes a submission win over James Llontop, a doctor’s-stoppage victory over Rongzhu, a decision win over Jai Herbert, a stoppage win over Ismael Bonfim, and a majority draw with MarQuel Mederos on April 11, 2026. On August 22, 2026, he submitted Nasrat Haqparast by arm-triangle choke. The UFC also identifies Padilla as a former Xplode amateur and professional lightweight champion and an UNF titleholder.

Padilla’s style is built around adaptability. He describes his nickname as reflecting an ability to fight any style, while identifying chokes as his favorite grappling technique and elbows and knees as preferred striking tools. Before establishing himself as a full-time fighter, he completed a business certificate and said fighting had always been his primary occupation.