Michael Chiesa
19-7-0
Welterweight
About
The Maverick - a Ultimate Fighter winner turned grappling-heavy welterweight known for slick submissions and a long-running rivalry with Kevin Lee.
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Michael Chiesa, known as the Maverick, started his career by winning The Ultimate Fighter as a lightweight before finding his best form a division up at welterweight. His calling card is grappling: he chains takedowns into back control and hunts submissions with real skill.
That game earned him wins over respected names like former champion Rafael dos Anjos and the durable Neil Magny, plus a notable submission of fan favorite Tony Ferguson. It's the resume of a steady, reliable contender rather than a highlight-reel finisher.
Fans appreciate Chiesa as a likable grinder who built himself into a credible welterweight through hard work and a sharp ground game.
Why fans love Chiesa
Slick submissions, steady improvement, and a relatable, grinder's path to relevance.
