Steve Garcia doesn’t talk much. He lets his fists do the talking. And so far, they’ve been loud. Riding on a seven-fight win streak and a reputation as one of the most aggressive featherweights in the UFC, Garcia made it into the top 10 rankings. But behind the fight gloves and highlight finishes lies a man with a story most fans haven’t heard.

On June 14, the 34-year-old is all set to make the most important walk of his UFC career so far. Under the bright lights of the UFC Freedom 250, Garcia will face #2-ranked Diego Lopes on the South Lawn of the White House. With a win here, the 145-pound contender would likely find himself competing for the title in his very next matchup. That’s why Garcia will be looking to deliver a performance like never before. However, before he puts on a show for the audience at the White House, let’s take a look at Garcia’s nationality, ethnic background, and the religion he follows.

What is Steve Garcia’s nationality?

Steve Garcia, whose full name is Estevan Garcia Jr., was born on May 22, 1992, and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico. He proudly represents the United States every time he walks to the Octagon.

He began his MMA journey at age 15, inspired by friends and driven by a desire to protect himself. That early spark led him from Greg Jackson’s satellite gym to Luttrell’s MMA, and eventually to Jackson-Wink MMA, one of the most elite gyms in the world.   

Under the coaching of Greg Jackson, the longtime coach of former UFC champ Jon Jones, Garcia began showing significant improvements inside the Octagon. As a result, the New Mexico-based fighter has amassed an impressive 8-2 record in Dana White’s promotion so far. Now that we’ve explored where Steve Garcia is from, let’s turn our attention to his ethnic background.

What is Steve Garcia’s ethnicity?  

Well, there’s not an ounce of doubt that Steve Garcia represents red, white, and blue like a true patriot every time he steps inside the Octagon. But Garcia is actually of Hispanic ethnicity, and his roots trace back to Mexico. Also, his surname, ‘Garcia,’ is widely associated with Spanish-speaking countries, especially Mexico.

Speaking about his heritage, ‘Mean Machine’ credited his Mexican and Hispanic culture for shaping his determination, grit, and toughness. He also praised his family for always serving as his biggest source of motivation.  

“I like to think it has something to do with my heritage, that Mexican culture, the Hispanic culture,” Garcia said, according to KOAT News. “Like, we’re just gritty. My family is always my motivator. Ultimately, getting to the top, getting that belt, is the goal. I don’t know if I’ll ever be truly at peace until I get there.” 

In that case, Steve Garcia shares his roots with former two-division champion Henry Cejudo, who also boasts Mexican heritage but represented America throughout his combat sports journey. With a clearer understanding of Garcia’s ethnic background, the next natural question is what religion he follows. So, let’s take a look at that as well.

What religion does Steve Garcia follow?

Garcia doesn’t speak about his religious beliefs often, but when he does, it’s clear they matter to him. In a UFC interview, he said, “I’m a believer, I’m not trying to make a fool of God; I’m not trying to do those things.”

It’s a short sentence packed with conviction. While Garcia hasn’t publicly labeled his faith, his words and actions suggest Christian beliefs play a guiding role in how he carries himself, both as a fighter and a human being.  

With Steve Garcia set to compete on one of the biggest stages the promotion has ever staged, his popularity could surge rapidly if he makes a statement against Diego Lopes at the UFC White House.