The awkward interaction occurred during a recent episode of the Jaxxon podcast, where Cortez appeared as a guest alongside Jackson. When the conversation turned to training, Jackson saw an opportunity to shoot his shot with the UFC star.
“You train with guys and girls?” Jackson inquired.
After Cortez confirmed that she does, Jackson delivered what many MMA fans would recognize as a classic line often seen in social media comments:
“I want to come work triangle chokes with you.”
For those unfamiliar with the sport, “drilling triangles” has become a common flirtatious comment on social media posts featuring female stars.
Cortez, however, was quick with her response.
“I don’t think I’m your size, but there’s a few other guys you can work with,” she replied smoothly, effectively redirecting the former champion’s advances.
The moment prompted immediate reactions from others present, who didn’t hesitate to call out the rejection.
“Curve. You just got friendzoned,” co-host exclaimed, mimicking a dismissive gesture. “There’s other guys you could work with. And she hit you with the thumb like this. Over the shoulder. Curve.”
The exchange has quickly circulated among MMA fans online, with many appreciating Cortez‘s composed and professional deflection of the situation.
Cortez, who holds an impressive 11-1 professional record, has established herself as a rising star in the UFC’s flyweight division through her fighting skills rather than responding to such comments. Meanwhile, Jackson, a veteran of the sport and former champion, took the rejection in stride as the podcast continued.
This interaction highlights the ongoing dynamics female athletes often navigate in combat sports, where maintaining professionalism while handling unwanted advances remains unfortunately common, even among fellow stars.
