Evan Dunham is an American mixed martial artist known for his impressive career in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). With a record of 18 wins, eight losses, and one draw, Dunham has proven himself to be a fierce competitor in the lightweight division.
Born on December 18, 1981, in Oregon, Dunham grew up playing sports such as football, basketball, and wrestling. However, it wasn't until he discovered the world of mixed martial arts (MMA) that his true passion was ignited.
Dunham began training in MMA while attending college, and after graduation, he decided to pursue it as a career. He quickly made a name for himself in smaller promotions with his well-rounded skills and finishing ability. Eventually, he caught the attention of the UFC and made his debut in 2009.
Since then, Dunham has fought some of the biggest names in the sport, including Rafael dos Anjos, Donald Cerrone, and Edson Barboza. He has earned notable victories over Tyson Griffin, Sean Sherk, and Gleison Tibau. Notably, Dunham's fight against Barboza was hailed as one of the greatest fights in UFC history, thanks to their non-stop action and thrilling exchanges.
One of Dunham's greatest strengths inside the cage is his well-rounded skill set. He has powerful striking, slick grappling, and superb conditioning, allowing him to go toe-to-toe with any opponent and often come out victorious. Additionally, Dunham's toughness and durability have been put to the test numerous times, and he has shown time and time again that he can take a punch and keep moving forward.
Although Dunham has experienced some setbacks in his career, such as losing four out of five fights from 2014-2017, he has never lost his determination or drive to succeed. Furthermore, outside of the cage, Dunham is known for his humility and respect towards his opponents, making him a beloved figure among fans and fighters alike.
Dunham retired from MMA in 2019, after his last fight against Francisco Trinaldo. The decision was difficult for Dunham but he expressed gratitude for the many lessons that he learned in the sport and how it shaped him as a person. Despite his retirement, Dunham's legacy in MMA is one of hard work, perseverance, and sportsmanship.
Overall, Evan Dunham has established himself as a true warrior in the sport of MMA. His impressive career, tenacity and remarkable performances will long be remembered by fans, making him a legend in the sport.