Jonathan Fitch American mixed martial arts specialist. Date of Birth: 24.02.1978 Country: USA

1. Biography of Jonathan Fitch
2. Education and Early Career
3. Professional Career
4. Ultimate Fighter and UFC
5. Leaving UFC and Return
6. Later Career

Biography of Jonathan Fitch

Jonathan Fitch is an American mixed martial arts specialist who primarily competes in the welterweight division. As of February 2013, he is ranked 6th in the world in the welterweight division.

Education and Early Career

After graduating from high school, Fitch enrolled at Purdue University where he studied from 1997 to 2002. During his time at the university, Fitch not only obtained a Bachelor's degree in Physical Education but also participated in various wrestling competitions, eventually becoming the captain of the university team. Although he initially struggled and had more losses than wins, Fitch managed to improve his performance by the time he graduated.

Professional Career

Fitch began his professional career in 2002, initially competing in the light heavyweight division. However, he soon realized that his wrestling skills alone would not be sufficient for a successful career, leading him to study martial arts at the American Kickboxing Academy. After transitioning to the middleweight division, Fitch started showing impressive results, defeating notable fighters such as Shonie Carter, Alex Serdyukov, and Jeff Joslin.

Ultimate Fighter and UFC

Fitch was initially considered for the first season of "The Ultimate Fighter" but was ultimately rejected, causing him to get stuck at the airport after his luggage was already sent. On October 3, 2005, he made his debut in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), defeating Brock Larson. Fitch then moved to the welterweight division and went on to win eight consecutive fights, tying Royce Gracie's record. He was regarded as one of the most outstanding fighters in his weight class. However, his ninth fight against Georges St. Pierre did not result in a championship title for Fitch.

Leaving UFC and Return

On November 20, 2008, Fitch left the UFC after refusing to sign a contract for the perpetual use of his likeness in video games. However, his voluntary exile lasted less than a day, and he eventually signed a simplified contract. On December 12, 2009, Fitch was scheduled to fight Thiago Alves, seeking a rematch after a previous victory. Unfortunately, Alves suffered a serious injury, and Mike Pierce replaced him in the match. The rematch was rescheduled for March 27, 2010, but Alves encountered further health problems, including serious brain issues. Finally, on August 7, 2010, Alves and Fitch faced each other again, with Fitch emerging victorious.

Later Career

In late February 2011, Fitch fought to a draw against B.J. Penn, with a slight advantage in points for Fitch. A rematch was planned for July 2, 2011, but Fitch had to withdraw due to an injury in late March. After several months of treatment, Fitch recovered and returned to competition. On February 2, 2013, he suffered a loss by decision to Demian Maia. Shortly after this fight, Fitch parted ways with the UFC. Currently, he competes as a free agent.