How a fast-food worker traded shifts for professional mixed martial arts training
In short: Before competing in the UFC and Bellator, Ben Saunders faced a steep financial climb. To fund his Jeet Kune Do tuition at age 14, the Florida native worked in fast food restaurants, eventually trading wrestling techniques for submission skills to master his craft.
Born in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in 1983, Ben Saunders' path to professional mixed martial arts was defined by resourcefulness. After practicing Tang Soo Do as a child, his family's financial situation meant he could not afford formal instruction. At 14, he turned to Jeet Kune Do, working in fast food establishments to pay his tuition. He further refined his skills by trading wrestling techniques for submission techniques with the J. P. Taravella High School wrestling team. His brother, Joe, has served in the Florida Legislature. Additionally, his sibling Jacob introduced him to karate.
Saunders' professional career, which began in 2004, saw him compete in major organizations including the UFC and Bellator. He became a notable figure in the Welterweight division, famously appearing on 'The Ultimate Fighter: Team Hughes vs. Team Serra.' His striking prowess was highlighted in a UFC fight against Brandon Wolff, where he landed 42 knees from the Thai clinch, drawing comparisons to Anderson Silva. He also secured a victory against Dan Barrera via majority decision. Later, he defeated Marcus Davis with multiple knees in the first round.
His career was marked by significant highs and technical milestones. In 2014, during a return to the UFC, he secured his first 'Performance of the Night' bonus by executing the first successful omoplata submission in the promotion's history against Chris Heatherly. Despite various injuries and tournament runs, Saunders has remained a significant figure in the sport, eventually transitioning toward coaching as the head of a 10th Planet branch in Orlando, Florida. He earned a Fight of the Night bonus following a knockout loss to Alan Jouban. Saunders also achieved a victory over Kenny Robertson through a split decision.
Opens the Intellect+ feed with this card first. Swipe up for the next one.
Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Ben Saunders (fighter)
To cite this card, link to https://intellectplus.co.uk/app/culture-ben-saunders-fighter.
How we source, check and correct cards: Editorial standards.
General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.
Intellect Plus is a visual educational discovery platform for exploring fascinating facts and ideas. Brain Food, Not Brain Rot. What is Intellect Plus?
Related
More in US culture · More in Cultures · Latest · A–Z · All topics
