Tyron Woodley
Tyron Woodley (born April 7, 1982) is an American former professional mixed martial artist. He competed in the welterweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), where he was the UFC Welterweight Champion from July 2016 to March 2019.
Woodley was born in Ferguson, Missouri, and began training in martial arts at the age of six. He attended McCluer North High School, where he was a standout wrestler. After high school, Woodley attended Missouri Baptist University on a wrestling scholarship. He transferred to the University of Missouri after two years and was a three-time All-American wrestler.
Woodley began his professional MMA career in 2009. He quickly rose through the ranks, winning his first six fights. In 2013, he signed with the UFC. Woodley made his UFC debut in February 2014, and he quickly became a contender in the welterweight division. He won his first five fights in the UFC, including victories over Dong Hyun Kim, Josh Koscheck, and Kelvin Gastelum.
In July 2016, Woodley challenged Robbie Lawler for the UFC Welterweight Championship. Woodley won the fight by unanimous decision, and he became the new UFC Welterweight Champion. Woodley successfully defended his title three times, against Stephen Thompson, Demian Maia, and Darren Till.
In March 2019, Woodley lost his UFC Welterweight Championship to Kamaru Usman. Woodley has not fought since then, and he has announced his retirement from MMA.
Woodley is a highly skilled striker and wrestler. He is known for his powerful punches and his ability to take down opponents with ease. Woodley is also a very durable fighter, and he has never been knocked out in his professional career.
Woodley is a popular figure in the MMA community. He is known for his outspoken personality and his willingness to take on all challengers. Woodley is also a role model for many young people, and he has used his platform to speak out against racism and injustice.
Here are some of Tyron Woodley's most notable achievements:
- UFC Welterweight Champion (2016-2019)
- Three successful title defenses
- Five-fight win streak in the UFC
- Three-time All-American wrestler
- NCAA Division I Wrestling Championship runner-up (2005)
Tyron Woodley is a true pioneer in the sport of MMA. He is a former UFC champion, a decorated wrestler, and a role model for many young people. Woodley is a true inspiration, and he will continue to be a force to be reckoned with in the world of martial arts for many years to come.