Matt Hughes is a retired mixed martial artist widely regarded as one of the greatest welterweights in MMA history. Known for his relentless wrestling and powerful ground-and-pound, Hughes became a two-time UFC Welterweight Champion and a cornerstone of the promotion during its rise to prominence in the early 2000s.
- Full Name: Matthew Allen Hughes
- Birthdate: October 13, 1973
- Hometown: Hillsboro, Illinois, USA
- Division: Welterweight (170 lbs)
- Fighting Style: Wrestling, Submission Grappling
Interesting Facts About Matt Hughes
- Hughes grew up on a farm in Hillsboro, Illinois, where he developed his work ethic by performing physically demanding chores, a toughness he carried into his MMA career.
- Hughes held the UFC Welterweight Championship twice, with a combined 7 successful title defenses, one of the highest in UFC history for the division.
- At UFC 34, Hughes performed one of MMA’s most iconic moves by slamming Carlos Newton unconscious to win his first UFC title.
- Hughes and Georges St-Pierre fought three times, with Hughes winning their first bout by armbar but losing the next two in decisive fashion. Their rivalry helped elevate the welterweight division’s prestige.
- An avid outdoorsman, Hughes is passionate about hunting and fishing. He even hosted a TV show called Trophy Hunters TV.
- Hughes served as a coach on The Ultimate Fighter 2, mentoring future MMA stars and showcasing his leadership skills.
- Hughes has an identical twin brother, Mark Hughes, who also briefly competed in MMA.
- In 2010, Hughes became one of the first modern-era fighters to be inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame, solidifying his status as a pioneer of the sport.
- Hughes is outspoken about his Christian faith and has often credited it for guiding him through his personal and professional challenges.
- Hughes released his autobiography, “Made in America: The Most Dominant Champion in UFC History,” in 2008, where he candidly discussed his career, faith, and life experiences.
- In 2017, Hughes survived a near-fatal train accident in which his truck was struck by a train. He suffered severe brain trauma but made a remarkable recovery, becoming an inspiration to many.
- Hughes was the first UFC fighter to achieve 50 takedowns and ended his career with numerous records in the welterweight division.
- A two-time NCAA Division I All-American wrestler at Eastern Illinois University, Hughes brought elite grappling skills to the octagon.
- Hughes retired with a record of 45 wins and 9 losses, including 35 finishes by KO or submission.