Cody Garbrandt’s body is more than just a collection of tattoos—it’s a visual narrative of his life as a UFC fighter, father, and man of faith. With over 35 tattoos, each inked with meaning, Garbrandt’s skin tells the story of his struggles, triumphs, and the values that define him. As he prepares for a high-stakes matchup against Xiao Long at UFC 326 on March 7, 2026, the significance of his tattoos has only grown more profound.

The Sword on His Face: A Spontaneous Statement

One of Garbrandt’s most striking tattoos is a sword slicing down his right eye. He explained in an interview that the tattoo was born out of a spontaneous decision. While getting an armpit tattoo, he said, the pain led him to suggest, “Let’s put one on the face.”

“I just wanted to give myself a break from the pain on the armpit,” Garbrandt said. “So we went full send. F– it.”

Tributes to Family and Faith

Garbrandt’s chest is adorned with a tattoo that reads “Family Over Everything,” a tribute to the people who have supported him through his career. He has acknowledged that this piece is one he regrets, as it didn’t turn out as he had envisioned.

On his chest, he also has “Lord Have Mercy,” reflecting his deep spiritual beliefs. The tattoo of a sparrow on his right pec is a nod to four or five people who were part of his journey. Garbrandt has expressed a desire to remove the tattoo through laser sessions and rework it.

Tribal Symbols and Spiritual Icons

Garbrandt’s arms are covered in tattoos that reflect both his fighting spirit and spiritual convictions. A Japanese koi fish on his right arm symbolizes perseverance and courage, while “Live to Fight” and “Fight to Live” are inked on his forearms.

On his left hand, he has a tattoo of “Saint Michael Stomping the Devil,” a symbol of his belief in strength and protection. His left deltoid features a tattoo of Jesus Christ, emphasizing his faith and love for the religion.

The Meaning Behind the Gladiator-Inspired Back Piece

Garbrandt’s back is arguably his most elaborate tattoo, featuring a gladiator-style design that took 25 hours to complete. He credits the artist for doing the piece for free, as it serves as a form of for their work.

On his lower back, a 9mm gun is tattooed with the words “No Love” written in bold. Garbrandt explained that the tattoo honors his friend and former teammate, Nick Duell, who also had the same design. “The first time I pulled it out in a fight, I was walking back to the cage and I was like whoos!” Garbrandt said.

Personal and Cultural Symbolism

Garbrandt’s tattoos also reflect his cultural and personal roots. He has a “Twin City” tattoo on his traps, referencing his hometown of Uhrichsville and his current residence in Dennison. His abdomen bears the words “Blessed” and “Dreamsville,” a nod to his origins and gratitude.

On his legs, tribal tiger tattoos symbolize courage and power, while “A Promise Kept” and a UFC belt commemorate his rise to champion status. His knuckles read “True Love,” and his palm is inked with “Only God Can Judge Me,” reinforcing his belief in divine judgment.

The Role of Tattoos in Identity and Legacy

Garbrandt’s tattoos are not merely decorative—they are a reflection of his identity, struggles, and legacy. Each symbol, from the sword on his face to the gladiator design on his back, tells a story of his journey as a fighter, a father, and a man of faith.

As he steps into the Octagon for UFC 326, Garbrandt’s tattoos serve as a reminder of the path that brought him to this moment. They are a testament to his resilience, his values, and the legacy he continues to build.