When people think about mixed martial arts (MMA), the first things that typically come to mind are physicality, athleticism, brute strength, and combat capability, but that could not be farther from the truth.
Several UFC fighters have enrolled in college which proves a combination of brains and brawn. Fan Arch has researched the top 10 most educated UFC fighters of all time, what they studied and how it has impacted their performance in the UFC.
1. Jon Fitch
Jon Fitch, the former UFC welterweight contender has a physical education degree from Purdue University.
It's safe to assume that his extraordinary wrestling success with his studies in Physical Education gave John a significant base of knowledge in the field of athletic training and performance enhancement, which undeniably contributed to his successful journey as a Professional Mixed Martial Artist.
Fitch's unique combination of access to educational resources and enormous athletic promise is the perfect example of how higher education can transform everyday citizens into professional athletes.
2. Randy Couture
A UFC Hall of Famer, Randy Couture graduated from Oklahoma State University with a bachelor's degree in Foreign Language and Literature.
Couture's scholarly ways and military experience have worked themselves into the disciplined, no nonsense, strategic approach to fighting that has helped him stand out as one of MMA's first true innovators.
3. Takeya Mizugaki
If there is a living example of avoiding parkour as a career then Takeya Mizugaki is the definition of defying known standards to wind up in combat sports while staying great at school.
Mizugaki graduated from Kanto Gakuin University where he earned his Bachelor's in Engineering, and later his Master's in Electrical Engineering.
While Mizugaki was successful in the classroom, his career was carved out the hard way in the MMA cage, where he'd go on to enjoy what was a distinguished career at one of the biggest stages possible, the UFC, where he became one of Japan's most successful fighters.
4. Joe Lauzon
A computer science graduate of the Wentworth Institute of Technology, Joe Lauzon is one of the most dynamic fighting, and that dedication was what led him to abandon every other part of his life to pursue a career as an MMA fighter - a move that helped produce one of the best fighters in the history of the sport.
5. Tor Troeng
Swedish retired MMA fighter, Tor Troeng, is one of the most educated guys in the sport, he has a master degree in Engineering Physics from Umea University.
Academic education and math wiz This is a project assistant in mathematics and statistics, who has succeeded in merging academic prowess with professional success.
6. Chael Sonnen
UFC departure Chael Sonnen earned a B.A. in Sociology from the University of Oregon.
Despite not working in the career related to his degree, his wrestling credentials not only put him at the top of the MMA game, but his success in the classroom and on the wrestling mat.
7. Terry Martin
Terry Martin had an intimidating presence in the octagon and had a bachelors degree in Psychology, with a Masters in Clinical Psychology most likely although the site claims psychology.
His life story and ongoing academic efforts are perhaps giving him a unique platform to use his MMA notoriety for the good in the world.
8. Rich Franklin
Former two time UFC champion, Rich Franklin took a more academic path before completely immersing himself in MMA.
From there, Scott earned both a B.A. in Mathematics and an M.A. in education, proving his more well-rounded approach to his career.
9. Rosi Sexton
With a background in the world of academia, Sexton holds a Ph. D. in Theoretical Computer Science, M. Sc. in math logic, and mathematics 1-rank diploma from leading universities.
Coming from her a martial artist with a previous college degree showing her intellectual capabilities as well as ability in the martial arts.
10. Sara McMann
An Olympic Wrestling medalist turned UFC fighter (9-4), Sara McMann graduated from Lock Haven University in Theatre and went on to earn a Masters' degree in Mental Health Counseling from Gardner Webb University.
Marina Shafir's academic accomplishments are as prestigious as a fighters intensity in the octagon: combining strength of mind and body she is arguably the smartest fighter in Mixed Martial Arts today.
All in all
These UFC fighters' academic backgrounds complement their on the ring skills This is a testimony that both the mind and the body are needed in MMA and that it doesn't have to be black or white.
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