Updated: Monday, April 13, 2026
If you’ve followed Cub Swanson’s wild ride through the UFC featherweight division, you know the man is a warrior. But behind every powerful knockout and post-fight bonus, there’s a strong, beautiful partner who has stood by his side through the highs, the injuries, and now, his emotional retirement chapter. Fans often search for “Cub Swanson wife,” and the answer is Kenda Perez Swanson – a former model, television host, and devoted mother who has carved her own path in the MMA world.
Kenda isn’t just “the wife of a fighter.” She’s a smart, charismatic woman who was already a familiar face in combat sports long before she and Cub made their relationship official. Their love story feels like something out of a movie: two people deeply connected to the fight game, building a family while navigating the chaos of training camps, fight nights, and life outside the Octagon. Let’s dive into who Kenda really is and how she and Cub have created such a grounded, loving partnership.
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Kenda Perez: From MMA Host and Model to Fighter’s Biggest Supporter
Kenda Rae Perez was born on May 18, 1983, in Laguna Beach, California. Standing at 5 ft 7 in with striking brown hair and hazel eyes, she built a successful career as a model and television host. Many longtime MMA fans remember her as one of the original hosts for shows like Best of Pride FC, Best of WEC, and The Ultimate Show. She brought energy, professionalism, and genuine passion to the screen during an era when women’s roles in MMA coverage were still growing.
Her connection to the sport gave her a real understanding of the sacrifices fighters make. When she started dating Cub Swanson, that shared world made their bond even stronger. Kenda has always been more than a supportive spouse – she’s someone who truly gets the grind. Over the years, she has continued to stay involved in the UFC community, often appearing at events and sharing heartfelt moments with fans on social media.
What stands out most about Kenda is her warmth and strength. She handles the spotlight with grace while keeping family as her top priority. In a sport full of flash and pressure, she has remained authentic, supportive, and deeply involved in raising their children.
The Beautiful Love Story of Cub Swanson and Kenda Perez
Cub and Kenda’s journey together started years before they walked down the aisle. They welcomed their first child, daughter Royal Rae Swanson, on August 21, 2017. Just months later, on June 1, 2018, the couple tied the knot in an intimate ceremony that felt like a perfect Memorial Day celebration of love and commitment.
Their family grew quickly and joyfully. On September 2, 2018, Kenda gave birth to identical twin boys – Saint Cub Swanson and King Cub Swanson. Imagine the whirlwind: a new marriage, a toddler, and newborn twins all while Cub was still competing at a high level in the UFC. Yet, through it all, their relationship has only seemed to deepen.
Fans often see sweet glimpses on Instagram and at events – Cub calling Kenda his best friend, and Kenda proudly posting about his dedication and perseverance. She has been there for every comeback fight, every training camp adjustment, and now, the emotional farewell as Cub steps away from the Octagon after an incredible career spanning over two decades. Their story shows that real partnership in combat sports means showing up for the quiet days at home just as much as the big fight nights.
Life as a Family: Kids, Support, and Balancing the Fight Life
Raising three young children while one parent is a professional fighter is no small feat, but Cub and Kenda make it look like a beautiful adventure. Their daughter Royal is growing up fast, and the twin boys Saint and King bring double the energy (and double the cuteness) to the Swanson household.
- Kenda often shares how proud she is of Cub’s work ethic and the way he pours love into their family.
- Cub has spoken about how having kids changed his perspective and gave him extra motivation in the cage.
- The family travels together for big events, turning fight weeks into memorable experiences rather than just stressful ones.
- Even during Cub’s retirement preparations, Kenda has emphasized the importance of creating lasting memories with their children.
They’ve built a life that balances the intensity of MMA with real family moments – beach days in California, golf outings (one of Cub’s favorite hobbies), and plenty of home time in their Newport Beach area. Kenda’s calm presence seems to ground Cub, helping him stay focused while reminding him there’s a whole world waiting outside the Octagon.
Cub Swanson Wife: Quick Facts Table
Here’s a clear overview of the key details fans often look for:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Wife’s Name | Kenda Rae Perez Swanson |
| Date of Birth | May 18, 1983 |
| Profession | Former Model & MMA Television Host |
| Wedding Date | June 1, 2018 |
| Children | 1 Daughter (Royal Rae), 2 Sons (Saint Cub & King Cub) |
| Notable Role | Host for WEC/Pride FC highlights |
| Current Focus | Family life and supporting Cub’s career transition |
This table captures the essentials in one glance, showing how intertwined their personal and professional worlds have become.
In the end, Cub Swanson’s wife Kenda Perez represents the heart behind the highlight-reel career. She’s a woman who brought elegance and depth to MMA broadcasting, then stepped into the role of loving wife and mother with the same dedication Cub shows in the cage. Their story reminds us that even the toughest fighters need a strong foundation at home – someone who understands the sacrifices, celebrates the wins, and stands steady through everything in between.
As Cub closes one chapter with his final fights and looks toward retirement, it’s clear that his greatest victories aren’t just the knockouts or bonus checks. They’re the family he and Kenda have built together – full of love, laughter, and unbreakable support. Fans will keep cheering for “Killer Cub,” but many will also appreciate the quiet strength of the woman who has been right there with him every step of the way.
Whether you’re a die-hard UFC fan or just curious about the man behind the nickname, Cub and Kenda’s journey is proof that real champions exist both inside and outside the Octagon. Here’s to more beautiful chapters for the entire Swanson family.