Jon Fitch

Jon ‘Two Face’ Fitch – MMA Profile

Notable MMA standout Jon Fitch didn’t immediately know that he wanted a career in the UFC. He had enrolled at Purdue University to earn his degree in Physical Education. And while he participated on the Purdue wrestling team (enjoying a stint as the team’s captain), he didn’t aspire toward a high-profile career in mixed martial arts. It wasn’t until his wrestling coach Tom Erikson introduced him to veteran MMA fighters Mark Coleman and Gary Goodridge that the thought crossed his mind. Today, Fitch is considered one of the most difficult fighters to defeat.

A Slow Start

Fitch participated in his first MMA bout mere weeks after graduating from Purdue. His performance showed little promise and he was beaten by Mike Pyle. But, he wasn’t discouraged. The experience inspired Fitch to launch himself into an intense training regimen in order to prepare for future fights.

Sidetracked

After a mixed record, Fitch defeated Shonie Carter, a respected veteran of the MMA circuit. Soon after, he was invited to join the first season of a new reality TV program called “The Ultimate Fighter.” Excited, he made plans to join the TV show, confident that it was the ticket he needed to join the UFC. Unfortunately, he was cut from the program as he was boarding the plane to join the cast. But, this turn of events only seemed to motivate him further.

The Winning Streak Begins

Nicknamed “Two Face,” Fitch immersed himself into his training. To expand his fighting skills, he joined the American Kickboxing Academy. He honed and refined his techniques, training alongside other professional MMA fighters. In 2005, he beat Brock Larson and launched a consecutive string of wins. Fitch moved through the UFC ranks, defeating each fighter he met in the Octagon. After his win at UFC 82, he tied Royce Gracie’s UFC winning streak.

The Winning Streak Ends… With Praise

Fitch was eventually defeated by Georges St. Pierre, one of the most accomplished MMA fighters in the UFC. At the end of the bout, St. Pierre conceded that Fitch’s ability to take strikes and endure pain during the fight was phenomenal. The loss to St. Pierre drove Fitch to earn a black belt in Guerilla jiu-jitsu, further building his fighting repetoire. He has 19 wins, 3 losses and 1 no contest on his record. Fitch continues to attract fans who enjoy his easygoing manner and his wrestling prowess.