The 10 Most Famous People Born in Irving, Texas

Irving sits between Dallas and Fort Worth, but its famous names tell a different story. The city has produced baseball standouts, Olympic champions, football stars, basketball talent, fighters, models, and musicians. Sports dominate the list, but the range is wider than it first appears. This countdown ranks 10 of the most famous people born in Irving.

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10. Zak Cummings (1984–)

Zak Cummings gave Irving a name in mixed martial arts.

The UFC gave Zak Cummings his biggest national platform. He competed professionally for years before reaching mixed martial arts’ top promotion. Cummings built a reputation as a tough, experienced fighter. His career gives Irving a connection to modern combat sports.

9. Blake Beavan (1989–)

Blake Beavan went from Irving baseball to the majors.

A first-round pick in 2007 put Blake Beavan on baseball’s national radar. The Texas Rangers selected him out of high school. Beavan later reached the majors with the Seattle Mariners. His path from local standout to MLB pitcher keeps him on Irving’s sports list.

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8. David Garza (1971–)

David Garza built a respected alternative-rock career.

Alternative rock fans found David Garza through his songwriting, guitar work, and restless creativity. He built a loyal following through solo releases and live performances. Garza also worked as a producer and collaborator. His career gives Irving one of its strongest music names.

7. Erin Wasson (1982–)

Erin Wasson carried Irving roots into fashion and modeling.

Runways, magazines, and major campaigns carried Erin Wasson far beyond North Texas. She became a model for major designers and fashion brands. Wasson also appeared in television projects, film, and design work. Her career moved between modeling, styling, acting, and fashion.

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6. David Fry (1995–)

David Fry became an MLB All-Star with Cleveland.

A 2024 All-Star selection pushed David Fry into a brighter baseball spotlight. He reached the major leagues with the Cleveland Guardians. Fry became known for versatility, power, and clutch moments. His rise added another modern baseball name to Irving’s sports legacy.

5. Michael Huff (1983–)

Michael Huff became a college football standout and NFL first-rounder.

The 2005 Texas Longhorns defense had a star safety in Michael Huff. He won the Jim Thorpe Award before becoming a first-round NFL Draft pick. Huff later played several seasons in the league. His college career eventually earned Hall of Fame recognition.

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4. Odyssey Sims (1992–)

Odyssey Sims became a Baylor star and WNBA All-Star.

MacArthur High School saw Odyssey Sims become one of Texas’ top basketball prospects. She went on to star at Baylor. Sims later became a WNBA All-Star. Her scoring, speed, and toughness made her one of Irving’s top basketball names.

3. Jeremy Wariner (1984–)

Jeremy Wariner sprinted from Irving to Olympic gold.

Olympic gold made Jeremy Wariner one of Irving’s most decorated athletes. He became a world-class 400-meter runner. Wariner also won world championships during his elite sprinting career. His smooth style made him one of America’s best quarter-milers.

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2. Trevor Story (1992–)

Trevor Story became an MLB All-Star shortstop.

Irving High School helped launch Trevor Story toward Major League Baseball. He became an MLB All-Star with the Colorado Rockies. Story later joined the Boston Red Sox. His power, defense, and local roots make him one of Irving’s top sports figures.

1. Kerry Wood (1977–)

Kerry Wood made baseball history with a 20-strikeout game.

Twenty strikeouts in one game made Kerry Wood a baseball sensation. The Chicago Cubs rookie delivered that unforgettable performance in 1998. Wood later built a long major-league career. His peak remains one of the most famous pitching moments in modern baseball.

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Last Updated on September 29, 2026 by F.E.M

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