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Ryan Bader
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Ryan Bader
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Ryan Bader (/ˈbeɪdər/ BAY-dər; born June 7, 1983) is an American mixed martial artist who competes in the Heavyweight division of RIZIN. He previously competed for Bellator MMA where he was the Bellator Heavyweight Champion, and still holds the record for the longest continuous winning streak of any Bellator Champion. He is also the former Bellator Light Heavyweight Champion, and the winner of the 2018 Bellator Heavyweight World Grand Prix Tournament. At Bellator 214, Bader became the first fighter in Bellator history to become champion in two weight divisions simultaneously. Prior to signing with Bellator, Bader competed for the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) in the Light Heavyweight division and he was a cast member and winner of The Ultimate Fighter: Team Nogueira vs. Team Mir. In the 2025 movie The Smashing Machine, Bader plays MMA fighter Mark Coleman.[6]

Key Information

Early life and education

[edit]

Ryan Bader was born in Reno, Nevada and started wrestling at the age of seven. He entered mixed martial arts after a successful career in amateur wrestling. He attended Robert McQueen High School in Reno, where he won two Nevada state championships and was ranked as high as fourth in the country for wrestling. In football, Bader was the 2001 Nevada Defensive Player of the Year and helped the McQueen Lancers win the Nevada state championship title.[7]

Career

[edit]

Collegiate wrestling

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Bader attended Arizona State University on a wrestling scholarship, where he was college teammates with former UFC Heavyweight Champion Cain Velasquez and CB Dollaway. While attending ASU, Bader was a three-time Pac-10 Champion, winning titles in 2003, 2004, and 2006. He was also a two-time NCAA All-American, placing fourth in 2004 as a sophomore and seventh in 2006 as a senior at the NCAA national tournament. From 2003 to 2005, Bader compiled a collegiate wrestling record of 88 wins and 34 losses.[8] He began training at Arizona Combat Sports in early 2007.

The Ultimate Fighter (2008)

[edit]

Bader's UFC career began as a contestant on season 8 of The Ultimate Fighter. Bader, the first light heavyweight selected by coach Antônio Rodrigo Nogueira, went on to win his first three fights on the show to fight with Vinicius Magalhães on December 13, 2008, at The Ultimate Fighter 8 Finale.

At the finale, Bader defeated Magalhães by way of a quick, first-round knockout, earning the title of "The Ultimate Fighter" and winning the traditional "six-figure UFC contract". An overhand right dropped Magalhães, and Bader followed up with strikes on the ground to take the win, less than halfway through the first round.

Ultimate Fighting Championship (2009–2011)

[edit]

Bader's first post-TUF fight was at UFC Fight Night 18 against Carmelo Marrero, whom he defeated via unanimous decision, scoring 30–27 on all three judges' scorecards. During the match, Bader tore his medial collateral ligament and posterior cruciate ligament, which kept him sidelined until the next fall.

Shortly after the Marrero fight, Bader appeared alongside fellow Ultimate Fighter 8 winner Efrain Escudero in the UFC's sixth video game, UFC 2009 Undisputed. He and Escudero were available through a special code obtained by pre-ordering the game from GameStop.[9] On September 10, 2009, he and Escudero were made available for download on PlayStation Network and Xbox 360 Marketplace.

Bader returned against Eric Schafer on October 24, 2009, at UFC 104.[10] The fight was mainly dominated by Bader, who scored with a powerful attack of combinations standing and controlled the grappling, en route a unanimous decision victory (30–27, 29–26, and 30–27).

Next for Bader was Keith Jardine, who he fought on February 21, 2010, at the UFC's debut effort in Australia, UFC 110.[11] Bader scored a sharp jab on the tiring Jardine, which set up a flying knee to the chest and a left hook at 2:10 of the third round to secure a KO victory for Bader.

Along with Jesse Forbes, CB Dollaway, Eric Larkin and Aaron Simpson, Bader left Arizona Combat Sports to train at their newly opened gym Power MMA And Fitness.[12]

Bader moved his UFC record to 5–0 at the expense of Antônio Rogério Nogueira at UFC 119, controlling him most of the fight with his wrestling and using his jab and short combinations to stop much of Nogueira's offense. All three judges scored the fight 30–27 for Bader.[13]

First MMA losses (2011–2013)

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Four months after his victory over Nogueira, Bader fought fellow rising prospect Jon Jones on February 5, 2011, at UFC 126,[14] where he received the first loss of his MMA career after tapping out to a modified guillotine choke in the second round.

In a massive upset, Bader lost to Tito Ortiz on July 2, 2011, at UFC 132 by an arm-in guillotine choke which Ortiz secured following a knockdown of Bader.[15]

Bader then faced Jason Brilz on November 19, 2011, at UFC 139.[16] He defeated Brilz at 1:17 of the first round via KO, landing a straight right behind Brilz's ear causing him to immediately fall to the mat face-first.[17]

Bader next faced former Light Heavyweight champion Quinton Jackson on February 26, 2012, at UFC 144.[18] Jackson weighed in over the Light Heavyweight weight allowance of 206 lbs by 5 lbs, weighing in at 211 lbs.[19] Bader accepted the fight at a catchweight and received 20% of Jackson's purse. Bader won via unanimous decision, with all three judges scoring the fight 30–27.[20]

Bader faced Lyoto Machida on August 4, 2012, at UFC on Fox: Shogun vs. Vera.[21] He was defeated via KO at 1:32 in the second round, after rushing in and being caught with a punch.[22]

Bader faced former title challenger Vladimir Matyushenko on January 26, 2013, at UFC on Fox 6.[23] He won the fight via guillotine choke submission at just 50 seconds of the first round, earning his first Submission of the Night honors, and also having the fastest UFC Light Heavyweight submission.[24][25]

Bader was expected to face Glover Teixeira on May 25, 2013, at UFC 160.[26] However, Bader pulled out of the bout citing an injury and was replaced by James Te-Huna.[27]

The bout with Teixeira eventually took place on September 4, 2013, in the main event at UFC Fight Night 28.[28] Despite dropping Teixeira early in the first round, Bader lost the fight via TKO in the first round.[29]

Bader faced Anthony Perosh on December 7, 2013, at UFC Fight Night 33.[30] He won the fight via unanimous decision (30–27, 30–27, and 30–26). Bader dominated Perosh all 15 minutes of the three round contest using his superior wrestling.[31]

Winning streaks at UFC (2014–2016)

[edit]

Bader faced Rafael Cavalcante on June 14, 2014, at UFC 174.[32][33] He won the fight via unanimous decision. Bader's wrestling was displayed once again, controlling Feijão the majority of the bout.[34]

Bader faced Ovince St. Preux on August 16, 2014, at UFC Fight Night: Bader vs. St. Preux.[35] He won the fight via unanimous decision.[36]

Bader fought Phil Davis on January 24, 2015, at UFC on Fox 14.[37] He won the fight by split decision.[38]

Bader was expected to face Daniel Cormier on June 6, 2015, at UFC Fight Night 68.[39] However, on April 28, 2015 it was announced that Cormier had been removed from the fight in favor of a matchup with Anthony Johnson on May 23, 2015 at UFC 187.[40]

Bader faced Rashad Evans on October 3, 2015, at UFC 192.[41] He won the fight via unanimous decision.[42]

Bader faced Anthony Johnson in the main event on January 30, 2016, at UFC on Fox 18.[43] His winning streak was interrupted, as he lost the fight via knockout in the first round.[44]

Bader next faced Ilir Latifi on September 3, 2016, at UFC Fight Night 93.[45] He won the fight via knockout in the second round and was awarded a Performance of the Night bonus.[46][47]

Bader faced Antônio Rogério Nogueira in a rematch on November 19, 2016, in the main event at UFC Fight Night 100.[48] He won the fight by TKO in the third round with ground and pound after dominating Nogueira on the mat.[49] Bader's fight against Nogueira was the last on his UFC contract and afterward he was a free agent.

Bellator MMA (2017–2024)

[edit]

Double champion (2017–2020)

[edit]

On Ariel Helwani's podcast, the MMA Hour, Bader stated that he has a Bellator MMA contract on hand, that negotiations are in process, and that the UFC has the right to match the Bellator offer. If the UFC chose not to match then his desire would be for an immediate fight against the current Bellator Light Heavyweight Champion Phil Davis, whom he had beaten in the UFC. On March 21, 2017, Bader announced that the UFC had not sought to match Bellator's offer and that he had officially signed a six-fight deal with Bellator MMA.[50]

Bader was officially unveiled as a fighter for the company at Bellator 175. After the main event, Bader entered the cage and it was announced he would face Muhammed Lawal at Bellator 180 on June 24, 2017. However, Lawal pulled out of the fight and Bader faced Bellator Light Heavyweight champion Phil Davis in a rematch.[51] Bader and Davis first met at UFC on Fox: Gustafsson vs. Johnson on January 24, 2015, with Bader winning by split decision. Bader won the rematch again by split decision to become the new Light Heavyweight champion.[52]

In his first title defense, Bader faced Linton Vassell at Bellator 186 on November 3, 2017.[53] He won the fight via TKO in the second round.

Bader faced Muhammed Lawal in the Bellator Heavyweight Grand Prix for the Bellator Heavyweight championship at Bellator 199 on May 12, 2018. He won the fight via TKO 15 seconds into the first round.

Bader faced Matt Mitrione in the semi-finals at Bellator 207 on October 12, 2018.[54] He won the fight via unanimous decision.[55]

In the final, Bader faced Fedor Emelianenko for the vacant Bellator Heavyweight World Championship in the main event at Bellator 214 on January 26, 2019.[56] Bader claimed the title by winning via knockout 35 seconds into the first round, thus becoming the first simultaneous two-weight champion in Bellator history.[57]

In April 2019, Bader signed an exclusive, multi-year and six-fight contract with Bellator.[58][59]

On July 11, 2019, it was announced that Bader is set to make his first heavyweight title defense against Cheick Kongo. This bout served as the headliner of Bellator 226 on September 7.[60] The bout ended in a no contest at 3:52 of the first round when Bader landed an accidental eye poke on Kongo that rendered him unable to continue, with Bader retaining his title.[61]

Bader was signed to defend his light heavyweight title against Vadim Nemkov at Bellator 242 on May 9, 2020.[62] However, it was later announced that Bellator 242 and Bader's bout against Nemkov had been postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.[63] The title bout with Nemkov was rescheduled and took place on August 21 at Bellator 244. Bader lost the bout via second-round technical knockout.[64]

Light Heavyweight World Grand Prix

[edit]

On February 9, 2021, it was announced that Bader would be participating in the Bellator Light Heavyweight World Grand Prix. He faced Lyoto Machida in the quarterfinal round. This was a rematch of their August 2012 bout, which saw Machida win via second-round knockout. The bout took place at Bellator 256 on April 9, 2021.[65] After Machida showed early success in the first two rounds on the feet via kicks, Bader soon controlled the rest of the bout on the ground, winning via a unanimous decision.[66]

In the semi-finals of the Grand Prix, Bader faced Corey Anderson on October 16, 2021 at Bellator 268.[67] He lost the fight via technical knockout less than a minute into round one.[68]

Heavyweight reign

[edit]

Bader defended his heavyweight title against Bellator Interim Heavyweight World Champion Valentin Moldavsky on January 29, 2022 at Bellator 273.[69] He won the close bout via unanimous decision.[70] 7 out of 11 media scores gave it to Moldavsky.[71]

As the first bout of his new four-fight contract, Bader defended his title in a rematch against Cheick Kongo on May 6, 2022 at Bellator 280.[72][73] He won the fight via unanimous decision.[74]

Bader defended his title in a rematch against Fedor Emelianenko on February 4, 2023 at Bellator 290.[75] He won the bout via ground and pound TKO in the first round.[76]

Bader was set to defend his title in a rematch against Linton Vassell on October 7, 2023 at Bellator 300.[77] However, Vassell withdrew a few days before the event due to illness and the bout was cancelled.[78]

2024

[edit]

Bader faced 2023 PFL Heavyweight champion Renan Ferreira in a three round non-title crossover fight at PFL vs. Bellator, on February 24, 2024.[79] He lost the bout via knockout just twenty-one seconds into the first round.[80]

Rizin Fighting Federation (2025–present)

[edit]

2025

[edit]

On March 26, 2025, it was announced that Bader had parted ways with PFL.[81]

Bader was scheduled to face 2025 Rizin Heavyweight Grand Prix winner Alexander Soldatkin for the inaugural Rizin Heavyweight Championship at Rizin: Shiwasu no Cho Tsuwamono Matsuri on December 31, 2025. However, Bader withdrew due to multiple injuries in his hip and groin.[82]

Personal life

[edit]

Bader and his wife Daisy have two sons and a daughter.[83]

Championships and accomplishments

[edit]

Mixed martial arts

[edit]

Collegiate wrestling

[edit]

Mixed martial arts record

[edit]
Professional record breakdown
40 matches 31 wins 8 losses
By knockout 13 6
By submission 3 2
By decision 15 0
No contests 1
Res. Record Opponent Method Event Date Round Time Location Notes
Loss 31–8 (1) Renan Ferreira TKO (punches) PFL vs. Bellator February 24, 2024 1 0:21 Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Win 31–7 (1) Fedor Emelianenko TKO (punches) Bellator 290 February 4, 2023 1 2:30 Inglewood, California, United States Defended the Bellator Heavyweight World Championship.
Win 30–7 (1) Cheick Kongo Decision (unanimous) Bellator 280 May 6, 2022 5 5:00 Paris, France Defended the Bellator Heavyweight World Championship.
Win 29–7 (1) Valentin Moldavsky Decision (unanimous) Bellator 273 January 29, 2022 5 5:00 Phoenix, Arizona, United States Return to Heavyweight. Defended and unified the Bellator Heavyweight World Championship.
Loss 28–7 (1) Corey Anderson TKO (punches) Bellator 268 October 16, 2021 1 0:51 Phoenix, Arizona, United States Bellator Light Heavyweight World Grand Prix Semifinal.
Win 28–6 (1) Lyoto Machida Decision (unanimous) Bellator 256 April 9, 2021 5 5:00 Uncasville, Connecticut, United States Bellator Light Heavyweight World Grand Prix Quarterfinal.
Loss 27–6 (1) Vadim Nemkov TKO (head kick and punches) Bellator 244 August 21, 2020 2 3:02 Uncasville, Connecticut, United States Return to Light Heavyweight. Lost the Bellator Light Heavyweight World Championship.
NC 27–5 (1) Cheick Kongo NC (accidental eye poke) Bellator 226 September 7, 2019 1 3:52 San Jose, California, United States Retained the Bellator Heavyweight World Championship. Accidental eye poke rendered Kongo unable to continue.
Win 27–5 Fedor Emelianenko TKO (punches) Bellator 214 January 26, 2019 1 0:35 Inglewood, California, United States Won the Bellator Heavyweight World Grand Prix and the vacant Bellator Heavyweight World Championship.
Win 26–5 Matt Mitrione Decision (unanimous) Bellator 207 October 12, 2018 3 5:00 Uncasville, Connecticut, United States Bellator Heavyweight World Grand Prix Semifinal.
Win 25–5 Muhammed Lawal TKO (punches) Bellator 199 May 12, 2018 1 0:15 San Jose, California, United States Heavyweight debut. Bellator Heavyweight World Grand Prix Quarterfinal.
Win 24–5 Linton Vassell TKO (punches) Bellator 186 November 3, 2017 2 3:58 University Park, Pennsylvania, United States Defended the Bellator Light Heavyweight World Championship.
Win 23–5 Phil Davis Decision (split) Bellator 180 June 24, 2017 5 5:00 New York City, New York, United States Won the Bellator Light Heavyweight World Championship.
Win 22–5 Antônio Rogério Nogueira TKO (punches) UFC Fight Night: Bader vs. Nogueira 2 November 19, 2016 3 3:51 São Paulo, Brazil
Win 21–5 Ilir Latifi KO (knee) UFC Fight Night: Arlovski vs. Barnett September 3, 2016 2 2:06 Hamburg, Germany Performance of the Night.
Loss 20–5 Anthony Johnson KO (punches) UFC on Fox: Johnson vs. Bader January 30, 2016 1 1:26 Newark, New Jersey, United States
Win 20–4 Rashad Evans Decision (unanimous) UFC 192 October 3, 2015 3 5:00 Houston, Texas, United States
Win 19–4 Phil Davis Decision (split) UFC on Fox: Gustafsson vs. Johnson January 24, 2015 3 5:00 Stockholm, Sweden
Win 18–4 Ovince Saint Preux Decision (unanimous) UFC Fight Night: Bader vs. Saint Preux August 16, 2014 5 5:00 Bangor, Maine, United States
Win 17–4 Rafael Cavalcante Decision (unanimous) UFC 174 June 14, 2014 3 5:00 Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Win 16–4 Anthony Perosh Decision (unanimous) UFC Fight Night: Hunt vs. Bigfoot December 7, 2013 3 5:00 Brisbane, Australia
Loss 15–4 Glover Teixeira TKO (punches) UFC Fight Night: Teixeira vs. Bader September 4, 2013 1 2:55 Belo Horizonte, Brazil
Win 15–3 Vladimir Matyushenko Submission (guillotine choke) UFC on Fox: Johnson vs. Dodson January 26, 2013 1 0:50 Chicago, Illinois, United States Submission of the Night.
Loss 14–3 Lyoto Machida KO (punches) UFC on Fox: Shogun vs. Vera August 4, 2012 2 1:32 Los Angeles, California, United States
Win 14–2 Quinton Jackson Decision (unanimous) UFC 144 February 26, 2012 3 5:00 Saitama, Japan Catchweight (211 lbs) bout; Jackson missed weight.
Win 13–2 Jason Brilz KO (punch) UFC 139 November 19, 2011 1 1:17 San Jose, California, United States
Loss 12–2 Tito Ortiz Submission (guillotine choke) UFC 132 July 2, 2011 1 1:56 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States
Loss 12–1 Jon Jones Submission (guillotine choke) UFC 126 February 5, 2011 2 4:20 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States
Win 12–0 Antônio Rogério Nogueira Decision (unanimous) UFC 119 September 25, 2010 3 5:00 Indianapolis, Indiana, United States
Win 11–0 Keith Jardine KO (punch) UFC 110 February 21, 2010 3 2:10 Sydney, Australia
Win 10–0 Eric Schafer Decision (unanimous) UFC 104 October 24, 2009 3 5:00 Los Angeles, California, United States
Win 9–0 Carmelo Marrero Decision (unanimous) UFC Fight Night: Condit vs. Kampmann April 1, 2009 3 5:00 Nashville, Tennessee, United States
Win 8–0 Vinny Magalhães TKO (punches) The Ultimate Fighter: Team Nogueira vs. Team Mir Finale December 13, 2008 1 2:18 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States Won The Ultimate Fighter 8 Light Heavyweight Tournament.
Win 7–0 Buckley Acosta Submission (arm-triangle choke) Xtreme Cage Combat 6 April 5, 2008 1 0:47 Reno, Nevada, United States
Win 6–0 Brad Peterson Decision (unanimous) International Fighting Organization: Fireworks in the Cage 4 December 28, 2007 3 5:00 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States
Win 5–0 Ulises Cortez KO (punches) SE: Vale Tudo October 27, 2007 1 N/A Mexico
Win 4–0 Dicky Chavez TKO (punches) KOTC: Unstoppable September 15, 2007 1 0:41 San Carlos, Arizona, United States
Win 3–0 Tim Peacock TKO (punches) Worldwide FC: Rumble in the Red Rocks June 9, 2007 2 2:50 Camp Verde, Arizona, United States
Win 2–0 David Baggett Submission (rear-naked choke) Proving Grounds 1 May 12, 2007 1 N/A George Town, Cayman Islands
Win 1–0 Dave Covello TKO (submission to punches) Worldwide FC: Desert Strom March 31, 2007 1 2:21 Camp Verde, Arizona, United States Light Heavyweight debut.
Res. Record Opponent Method Event Date Round Time Location Notes
Win 3–0 Eliot Marshall Decision (unanimous) The Ultimate Fighter: Team Nogueira vs. Team Mir June 25, 2008 (airdate) 2 5:00 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States The Ultimate Fighter 8 semifinal round.
Win 2–0 Tom Lawlor KO (punch) May 28, 2008 (airdate) 1 3:44 The Ultimate Fighter 8 quarterfinal round.
Win 1–0 Kyle Kingsbury Submission (arm-triangle choke) May 21, 2008 (airdate) 2 1:33 The Ultimate Fighter 8 preliminary round.

[93]

Pay-per-view bouts

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No Event Fight Date Venue City PPV buys
1. PFL vs. Bellator Ferreira vs. Bader February 24, 2024 Kingdom Arena Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Not Disclosed[94]

NCAA record

[edit]

See also

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References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Ryan Bader

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Ryan Bader is an American professional mixed martial artist competing primarily in the and divisions, renowned for his wrestling-based fighting style and achievements across major promotions. Born on June 7, 1983, in , Bader is a former two-division champion in , where he captured both the and titles, and he holds a professional record of 31 wins, 8 losses, and 1 no contest as of November 2025. Bader's athletic foundation was built through collegiate wrestling at , where he earned All-American honors twice and won three Pac-10 championships before transitioning to MMA. He gained prominence by winning Season 8 of in , which led to his UFC debut and a successful run in the division, highlighted by victories over notable opponents such as , Quinton "Rampage" Jackson, and . After departing UFC in 2016, Bader signed with in 2017, quickly claiming the light heavyweight title and later becoming the promotion's first simultaneous two-division champion by winning the 2019 Heavyweight World Grand Prix. Beyond the cage, Bader has defended his title multiple times, including a second victory over in 2023, though he suffered a first-round loss to Renan Ferreira in 2024 that vacated the belt. Currently active and based in , he signed with in 2025 for a title debut against Alexander Soldatkin on December 31, 2025, but withdrew due to hip and groin injuries requiring surgery. In 2025, Bader expanded into acting with his feature-film debut as wrestler-turned-MMA fighter in The Smashing Machine, directed by and starring .

Early life and amateur career

Childhood and family background

Ryan Bader was born on June 7, 1983, in , to parents Mark and Anita Bader. Raised in a supportive family environment that emphasized athletic pursuits, Bader was introduced to wrestling by his father at the age of seven, marking the beginning of his deep involvement in the sport through local clubs. His parents played a pivotal role in nurturing his passion, regularly transporting him to weekend tournaments across and , which fostered his early dedication to combat sports. Bader attended Robert McQueen High School in Reno, where he excelled in wrestling, compiling a strong record that included two Nevada state championships and earning him the title of Nevada Wrestler of the Year as a senior. His high school performance also saw him ranked as high as fourth nationally, highlighting his emerging talent and commitment. After graduating in 2001, Bader relocated to to continue his wrestling career at the collegiate level with .

Collegiate wrestling at

Ryan Bader attended from 2002 to 2006 on a , competing for the Sun Devils at 197 pounds. During this period, he established himself as one of the top in the nation, winning three Pac-10 Conference titles at 197 pounds in 2003, 2004, and 2006. These victories highlighted his dominance in regional competition, including a decisive 3-0 win over Stanford's Nick Boykin to secure the 2006 team title for ASU. Bader earned All-American honors twice, placing fourth at 197 pounds in both the 2004 and 2006 national championships. In 2004, as the No. 4 seed, he advanced to the semifinals before falling to Minnesota's Damion Hahn, then secured his All-American status through the consolation bracket. His 2006 performance included a quarterfinal loss to Hofstra's , after which he again placed fourth, contributing to ASU's reputation for producing elite talent. Over his career, Bader compiled strong seasonal records, such as 31-8 in his junior year, demonstrating consistent excellence against top opponents. While excelling on the mat, Bader balanced his athletic commitments with academics, earning a bachelor's degree in Justice Studies from Arizona State in 2009. This discipline extended to his growing interest in , as he began training in MMA during his time at ASU, laying the groundwork for his transition to the sport after graduation. His collegiate success, including amateur MMA bouts post-college, bridged his wrestling background to a professional fighting career.

Professional MMA career

The Ultimate Fighter 8 (2008)

Ryan Bader was selected as the first light heavyweight contestant for Season 8 in 2008, chosen by coach during the draft process for Team Nogueira. The season featured a two-weight-class format with light heavyweights and lightweights competing under the guidance of Nogueira and opposing coach , marking the first time since Season 4 that multiple divisions were included. Bader, entering with an undefeated 7-0 professional record rooted in his wrestling background, joined a roster of 16 fighters vying for UFC contracts through elimination bouts filmed at the UFC Training Center in . In the quarterfinals, Bader advanced by defeating via knockout punches at 3:44 of the first round, showcasing his striking power early in the . He progressed to the semifinals, where he outpointed Eliot Marshall by after three rounds, relying on his wrestling to control the fight and avoid submissions. These victories highlighted Bader's ability to blend dominance with emerging stand-up skills, as he navigated the house dynamics and inter-team rivalries between Team Nogueira and Team Mir, including lighthearted pranks like room cluttering that tested group morale. Training camp under Nogueira emphasized Bader's development in MMA, with sessions focusing on submission defense, stand-up techniques, and full-contact to simulate opponents' styles, such as drilling against guard-pullers without allowing takedowns. Bader noted the intense six-week house environment, where constant camera presence and shared living with 15 other fighters fostered resilience, though incidents like pranks and dietary discipline—such as his regimen of organic oats, , and lean proteins—pushed personal limits. This period marked significant growth for Bader, transitioning from a wrestler to a well-rounded fighter, as he credited Nogueira's guidance for refining his game plan against grapplers. Bader won the season by defeating via TKO (punches) at 2:18 of the first round in the finale on December 13, 2008, at The Palms in , securing a UFC contract and launching his professional career. Post-fight, he reflected on the victory as the culmination of rigorous preparation, including targeted stand-up work that proved decisive against Magalhães' grappling prowess, underscoring his evolution during the show.

Ultimate Fighting Championship tenure (2009–2016)

Bader's UFC tenure commenced on April 1, 2009, at UFC Fight Night: Condit vs. Kampmann, where he secured a unanimous decision victory over Carmelo Marrero in his promotional debut outside of The Ultimate Fighter, showcasing his wrestling background to control the fight on the ground. He followed this with another unanimous decision win against Eric Schafer at UFC 104 on October 24, 2009, dominating with superior grappling and striking volume. These early successes highlighted Bader's transition from amateur wrestling to professional MMA, relying heavily on takedowns and ground control to outlast opponents. Building momentum, Bader achieved a third-round via punches against at on February 20, 2010, marking his first finish in the UFC and earning Fight of the Night honors for the back-and-forth battle. He extended his to four with a over at on September 25, 2010, using effective wrestling to neutralize Nogueira's submissions while landing precise strikes. This streak positioned Bader as a top contender, leading to a title shot against champion at on February 5, 2011, where he was submitted via in the second round, exposing vulnerabilities in his grappling defense against elite competition. Following the title loss, Bader suffered a first-round guillotine submission defeat to at UFC 132 on July 2, 2011, after being dropped by a counter right hand, which prompted reflections on his need for improved cardio to maintain output in prolonged exchanges. He rebounded with a first-round knockout punch against Jason Brilz at UFC 139 on November 19, 2011, and a unanimous decision over at UFC 144 on February 26, 2012, where his wrestling pressured Jackson throughout three rounds. However, a second-round knockout loss to at UFC on Fox: vs. Vera on August 4, 2012, via counter left hook, underscored ongoing issues with defensive striking. In 2013, Bader submitted with a in just 50 seconds at UFC on Fox: Johnson vs. Dodson on January 26, demonstrating enhanced submission skills honed through dedicated jiu-jitsu training. A first-round TKO loss to at UFC Fight Night: Teixeira vs. Bader on September 4, 2013, via ground-and-pound, led to further adjustments in his camp focused on cardio endurance. He responded with a win over Anthony Perosh at UFC Fight Night: Hunt vs. Bigfoot on December 7, 2013, outwrestling the veteran over three rounds. Bader then embarked on a five-fight from 2014 to 2015, starting with a against at on June 14, 2014, where he mixed takedowns with improved combinations. He headlined UFC Fight Night: Bader vs. Saint Preux on August 16, 2014, earning a over in a five-round war that tested his upgraded gas tank, allowing him to push the pace late. A victory over Phil Davis at UFC on Fox: Gustafsson vs. Johnson on January 24, 2015, showcased his evolving offense, including near-submissions. He closed the streak with a over at on October 3, 2015, controlling the former champion with wrestling while avoiding counters. These performances reflected Bader's stylistic growth, particularly in cardio management and offensive , as he later noted in interviews about refining his training to sustain high-intensity efforts. The streak ended with a first-round loss to Anthony Johnson at UFC on Fox: Johnson vs. Bader on January 30, 2016, overwhelmed by Johnson's explosive power. Bader closed his UFC run with back-to-back knockouts: a second-round knee against at UFC Fight Night: Arlovski vs. Barnett on September 3, 2016, and a third-round TKO of Nogueira in their rematch at UFC Fight Night: Bader vs. Nogueira 2 on November 19, 2016. Over his UFC career from 2009 to 2016, Bader compiled a 14-5 record, establishing himself as a durable contender before departing as a to pursue opportunities elsewhere.

Bellator MMA success (2017–2023)

Ryan Bader signed a multi-fight contract with in March 2017 following his release from the UFC, marking a significant addition to the promotion's division. His debut occurred at Bellator 180 on June 24, 2017, where he captured the vacant Bellator Light Heavyweight Championship via over former champion Phil Davis after five rounds of competitive wrestling and striking exchanges. Bader's wrestling background proved decisive, as he controlled the while avoiding Davis's submission attempts, securing scores of 48-47, 48-47, and 47-48. Bader made his first title defense at Bellator 186 on November 3, 2017, against , who had previously won the interim title by defeating . Bader dominated with superior striking and ground control, securing a TKO victory via punches at 3:58 of the second round. These victories highlighted Bader's versatility, blending his Olympic-level wrestling with improved power, as he held the title through 2018 without further defenses at that weight class. Transitioning to heavyweight, Bader entered the 2018 Bellator Heavyweight World Grand Prix to pursue multi-division success. In the quarterfinals at Bellator 199 on May 12, 2018, he defeated via first-round TKO at 0:15 via punches, advancing decisively at a limit of 225 pounds. The semifinal at Bellator 207 on October 12, 2018, saw Bader outpoint via over three rounds, showcasing his endurance in a grueling bout. Culminating in the final at Bellator 214 on January 26, 2019, Bader knocked out legendary fighter with punches at just 0:35 of the first round, winning the vacant title and becoming Bellator's first simultaneous two-division champion. This achievement underscored Bader's adaptability across weight classes, as he maintained his strap while claiming the crown. Bader's reign continued with a scheduled heavyweight title defense against Cheick Kongo at Bellator 226 on September 7, 2019, which ended in a no contest at 3:52 of the first round due to an accidental eye poke. Returning to light heavyweight for a title defense at Bellator 244 on August 21, 2020, Bader suffered his first Bellator setback, losing via TKO to Vadim Nemkov at 3:02 of the second round after a head kick and follow-up strikes, ending his light heavyweight reign. Despite the loss, Bader rebounded with a unanimous decision victory over Lyoto Machida at Bellator 256 on April 9, 2021, in a non-title bout that demonstrated his resilience. A subsequent light heavyweight bout against Corey Anderson at Bellator 268 on October 16, 2021, during the Bellator Light Heavyweight World Grand Prix semifinal, ended in a first-round TKO loss at 0:51. Focusing back on heavyweight, Bader defended his title at Bellator 273 on January 29, 2022, edging out via over five rounds to retain the belt. He followed with another successful defense against Kongo at on May 6, 2022, winning a in a rematch marked by heavy exchanges. Bader closed out his Bellator tenure with a first-round TKO of Emelianenko at 2:30 during on February 4, 2023, avenging their prior encounter and extending his heavyweight dominance. Over his seven-year run, Bader compiled a 10-2 record (1 NC) in Bellator, establishing himself as one of the promotion's most accomplished fighters with titles in two divisions. Bellator's acquisition by the Professional Fighters League (PFL) in late 2023 integrated Bader's heavyweight championship into the merged entity's structure, preserving his status as a top draw without immediate disruption to his accomplishments.

PFL era and departure (2024–2025)

Entering 2024, Ryan Bader continued as the Bellator MMA Heavyweight Champion under the PFL banner following the promotion's acquisition of Bellator in late 2023. His first bout under the unified structure came against 2023 PFL Heavyweight Tournament winner Renan Ferreira in the main event of PFL vs. Bellator: Champions Series on February 24, 2024, at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Bader, who had maintained an undefeated 6-0 record (1 NC) in the heavyweight division prior to the matchup, was knocked out by Ferreira just 21 seconds into the first round via a right hand followed by ground strikes, marking the end of his heavyweight title reign and snapping his divisional winning streak. Bader did not compete again in 2024, opting instead for a hiatus to film his role in the biographical drama The Smashing Machine, with PFL accommodating his schedule during production. The period was also marked by uncertainties stemming from the Bellator-PFL merger, including shifts in tournament formats and champion status that left his future matchups unclear. On March 26, 2025, Bader and PFL announced a mutual parting of ways, allowing him to become a despite one fight remaining on his contract after seven years with the organization—spanning his Bellator tenure—and multiple world titles won. In reflections on the merger's effects, Bader noted it created confusion around his position as champion and potential opponents, ultimately impacting his career longevity at age 41 by limiting opportunities for meaningful bouts outside the PFL's tournament system. He expressed that the quick loss to Ferreira ended what had been a dominant undefeated run, prompting a reevaluation of his remaining fights. Following the departure, Bader signed with , setting the stage for his promotional debut later in 2025.

Rizin Fighting Federation debut (2025)

Following his departure from the Professional Fighters League earlier in 2025, Ryan Bader signed a multi-fight deal with the Rizin Fighting Federation in May, entering free agency and targeting opportunities in the heavyweight division. The agreement was announced during Rizin's Otoko Matsuri event on May 4, positioning Bader to challenge the winner of the promotion's 2025 Heavyweight Grand Prix for the inaugural heavyweight title. Bader, entering the promotion with a professional record of 31-8, expressed enthusiasm for the move, citing his long-standing admiration for Japanese MMA and the chance to compete in high-profile international bouts. Bader's debut bout was officially announced on November 5, 2025, against Alexander Soldatkin, the victor of the 2025 Rizin Heavyweight Grand Prix, at the promotion's New Year's Eve event on December 31 at Saitama Super Arena in Saitama, Japan. The matchup, contested under Rizin MMA rules for three five-minute rounds at a 120 kg limit, will headline the card as a title fight. Soldatkin, a Russian fighter with an 18-4 record, earned his shot by defeating Marek Samociuk in the Grand Prix finals on September 28. Bader's motivations for joining Rizin included a desire for exciting, legacy-defining fights aligned with the promotion's dynamic style, reminiscent of Pride FC, where he could perform in the ring format and under rules permitting soccer kicks and stomps to grounded opponents. "It's such an honor to fight in Japan," Bader stated, highlighting his excitement for the cultural significance and the opportunity to become champion by early 2026. In preparation, Bader has adjusted his training to accommodate Rizin's unique ruleset, including extended practice with ground-and-pound techniques allowed against downed fighters, while maintaining his wrestling-based approach honed from years in UFC and Bellator. At age 42, this debut marks a pivotal moment, offering a platform to extend his career through international exposure and potential title contention in a promotion known for its spectacle.

Personal life and other pursuits

Family and marriage

Ryan Bader married his wife, Daisy Bader, on October 30, 2010. The couple has three children: sons Kanon (born 2012) and Rocket (born 2015), and daughter Hartley (born 2013). Bader has emphasized the challenges of balancing his intense MMA training and fight camps with fatherhood, often prioritizing family time by compartmentalizing his professional and personal lives to remain a dedicated and at home. His family has played a crucial supportive role throughout his career, including during major transitions such as his departure from the UFC to join in 2017, where Bader has noted that having a strong family foundation helps him navigate the demands of professional fighting. The Bader family resides in , in the greater Tempe area, where Bader remains actively involved in local community events, supporting organizations such as the Boys & Girls Club and Chandler Compadres through charity work and youth mentorship programs.

Acting and media appearances

In 2025, Ryan Bader made his acting debut in the biographical film The Smashing Machine, directed by , where he portrayed UFC Hall of Famer and Olympic alternate wrestler , a close friend and rival of the film's central figure, Mark Kerr, played by . Bader was cast after director contacted him via text message; following a 40-minute discussion and a Zoom audition in which he performed a hospital scene, he received confirmation three weeks later. His selection stemmed from his physical resemblance to Coleman as well as his authentic background as a collegiate wrestler and professional MMA fighter with a 31-8 record, which allowed him to authentically depict the character's intensity and dynamics. For the role, Bader trained for two weeks with the film's stunt coordinator to modify his real MMA techniques for non-contact fight , ensuring scenes appeared realistic without injury risk; he also shared preparation time on set with Johnson, whose deep immersion into Kerr's facilitated organic interactions during filming. His provided support throughout the production, attending the premiere alongside him. Beyond acting, Bader has appeared on various MMA-focused media platforms, including guest spots on podcasts such as Ariel Helwani's MMA Show, where he discussed his Bellator victories, and the Big Brown Breakdown, analyzing UFC events. He has contributed to ESPN's MMA coverage through fighter profiles and event previews, leveraging his expertise as a former champion. In reality television, Bader served as a coach on Season 31 of The Ultimate Fighter in 2023, assisting Mike Chandler's team following his own participation as a contestant on Season 8 in 2008. At age 42, Bader pursued to diversify beyond MMA, viewing it as a comparable challenge to combat sports that could extend his professional longevity after years in the cage; he expressed openness to future roles, citing the personal growth from overcoming performance anxiety.

Championships and accomplishments

Mixed martial arts titles

Ryan Bader has achieved significant success in professional , capturing multiple championships and tournament titles across major promotions. His accomplishments include winning the light heavyweight tournament on Season 8 in 2008, securing the Championship with two successful defenses during a reign of over three years, and claiming the Championship along with the 2018-19 Heavyweight World Grand Prix title, which he defended three times over a five-year reign. These titles highlight Bader's versatility across weight classes, bolstered by his background as a two-time All-American wrestler. Bader first rose to prominence by winning The Ultimate Fighter 8 Light Heavyweight Tournament in 2008, defeating via first-round knockout in the finale to earn a UFC contract. This victory marked his entry into major professional MMA and showcased his wrestling-based grappling and striking power early in his career. In , Bader captured the vacant Light Heavyweight Championship on June 24, 2017, defeating Phil Davis by split decision in his promotional debut at Bellator 180. He defended the title twice: first against via second-round TKO on November 3, 2017, at Bellator 186, and then against Muhammed "King Mo" Lawal via first-round TKO on May 12, 2018, at Bellator 199. Bader held the championship for three years and one month until losing it to via second-round TKO on August 21, 2020, at Bellator 244. This reign established Bader as one of Bellator's dominant light heavyweights during that period. Bader transitioned to heavyweight and won the 2018-19 Bellator Heavyweight World Grand Prix Tournament, defeating Matt Mitrione by unanimous decision in the semifinals on October 12, 2018, at Bellator 207, before knocking out Fedor Emelianenko in 35 seconds to claim the vacant Heavyweight Championship and the $1 million prize on January 26, 2019, at Bellator 214. This made him the first simultaneous two-division champion in Bellator history. He defended the heavyweight title three times: first against Cheick Kongo via unanimous decision on May 6, 2022, at Bellator 280; unifying it against interim champion Valentin Moldavsky via unanimous decision on January 29, 2022, at Bellator 273; and against Fedor Emelianenko via first-round TKO on February 4, 2023, at Bellator 290. Bader's heavyweight reign lasted five years and 29 days until he was dethroned by Renan Ferreira via first-round knockout on February 24, 2024, at PFL vs. Bellator: Champions Series 1. As of November 2025, Bader's professional MMA record stands at 31-8-0 with one no contest, comprising 13 /technical victories, three submission wins, and 15 decisions. His title successes underscore a career defined by durability and adaptability in high-stakes bouts.

Wrestling achievements

Ryan Bader began his wrestling career at Robert McQueen High School in , where he achieved notable success, including two state championships in the 4A division. His high school record exceeded 150 wins, establishing him as one of the top prep wrestlers in the state. At , Bader competed in the 197-pound weight class from 2002 to 2006, becoming a three-time Pac-10 Conference champion in 2003, 2004, and 2006. He earned All-American honors twice, placing fourth at the 2004 national championships and seventh in 2006, where he compiled a strong season record of 30-6. Over his collegiate career, Bader amassed 120 victories, ranking eighth in Arizona State wrestling history. In recognition of his contributions to the program, Bader was inducted into the Sun Devil Athletics Hall of Fame in 2025. Bader's wrestling foundation proved instrumental in his , particularly in executing takedowns, top control, and ground-and-pound techniques that became hallmarks of his fighting style.

Records and statistics

Professional MMA record

Ryan Bader maintains a professional mixed martial arts record of 31 wins, 8 losses, and 1 no contest over 40 bouts, yielding a win percentage of 77.5%. His victories break down to 13 by knockout or technical knockout (42%), 3 by submission (10%), and 15 by decision (48%), while his defeats consist of 6 by KO/TKO (75%) and 2 by submission (25%). Across promotions, Bader compiled a 15-5 record in the UFC, 9-3 with 1 NC in Bellator MMA and the Professional Fighters League, and 7-0 in other regional promotions. In his UFC tenure, he averaged about 10 minutes per fight and recorded a significant striking accuracy of 43%. Key milestones in his record include his UFC debut victory at The Ultimate Fighter 8 Finale in 2008, capturing the Bellator Light Heavyweight Championship via split decision against Phil Davis at Bellator 180 in 2017, and a first-round TKO loss to Renan Ferreira at PFL Super Fights in 2024.
ResultRecordOpponent (Nickname)MethodRoundTimeEventDateLocationNotes
Loss31–8 (1)Renan FerreiraTKO (punches)10:21PFL Super Fights: PFL vs. Bellator ChampsFebruary 24, 2024Riyadh, Saudi ArabiaHeavyweight bout
Win31–7 (1)Fedor Emelianenko (The Last Emperor)TKO (punches)12:30Bellator 290: Bader vs. Fedor 2February 4, 2023Los Angeles, California, U.S.For the vacant Bellator Heavyweight Championship
Win30–7 (1)Cheick Kongo (The King)Decision (unanimous) (49–46, 49–46, 49–46)55:00Bellator 280: Bader vs. Kongo 2May 6, 2022Paris, FranceLight Heavyweight bout
Win29–7 (1)Valentin MoldavskyDecision (unanimous) (48–47, 49–46, 49–46)55:00Bellator 273: Bader vs. MoldavskyJanuary 29, 2022Uncasville, Connecticut, U.S.For the interim Bellator Heavyweight Championship
Loss28–7 (1)Corey Anderson (Overtime)TKO (punches)10:51Bellator 268: Nemkov vs. AnglickasOctober 16, 2021Hollywood, Florida, U.S.Light Heavyweight Grand Prix semifinal
Win28–6 (1)Lyoto Machida (The Dragon)Decision (unanimous) (50–45, 50–45, 50–45)55:00Bellator 256: Bader vs. Machida 2April 9, 2021Uncasville, Connecticut, U.S.Light Heavyweight Grand Prix quarterfinal
Loss27–6 (1)Vadim Nemkov (Russian Vanya)TKO (head kick and punches)23:02Bellator 244: Bader vs. NemkovAugust 21, 2020Uncasville, Connecticut, U.S.Lost the Bellator Light Heavyweight Championship
NC27–5 (1)Cheick Kongo (The King)NC (overturned due to failed drug test)13:52Bellator 226: Bader vs. KongoSeptember 7, 2019London, EnglandOriginally a TKO (punches) win for Bader; ruled NC
Win27–5Fedor Emelianenko (The Last Emperor)TKO (punches)10:35Bellator 214: Fedor vs. BaderJanuary 26, 2019Inglewood, California, U.S.Won the Bellator Heavyweight Championship
Win26–5Matt Mitrione (Meathead)Decision (unanimous) (30–27, 30–27, 30–27)35:00Bellator 207: Mitrione vs. BaderOctober 12, 2018Cardiff, WalesHeavyweight Grand Prix semifinal
Win25–5Muhammed Lawal (King Mo)TKO (punches)10:15Bellator 199: Bader vs. King MoMay 12, 2018Honolulu, Hawaii, U.S.Heavyweight Grand Prix opening round
Win24–5Linton Vassell (The Swarm)TKO (punches)23:58Bellator 186: Bader vs. VassellNovember 3, 2017Winnepeg, Manitoba, Canada
Win23–5Phil Davis (Mr. Wonderful)Decision (split) (48–47, 47–48, 49–46)55:00Bellator 180: Sonnen vs. SilvaJune 24, 2017Newark, New Jersey, U.S.Won the Bellator Light Heavyweight Championship
Win22–5Antônio Rogério Nogueira (Minotoro)TKO (punches)33:51UFC Fight Night: Bader vs. Nogueira 2November 19, 2016São Paulo, Brazil, Brazil
Win21–5Ilir Latifi (The Albanian Lion)KO (knee)22:06UFC Fight Night: Arlovski vs. BarnettSeptember 3, 2016Hamburg, Germany
Loss20–5Anthony Johnson (Rumble)KO (punches)11:26UFC on Fox: Johnson vs. BaderJanuary 30, 2016Newark, New Jersey, U.S.For the interim UFC Light Heavyweight Championship
Win20–4Rashad Evans (Suga)Decision (unanimous) (30–27, 30–27, 29–28)35:00UFC 192: Cormier vs. GustafssonOctober 3, 2015Houston, Texas, U.S.
Win19–4Phil Davis (Mr. Wonderful)Decision (split) (29–28, 28–29, 29–28)35:00UFC on Fox: Gustafsson vs. JohnsonJanuary 24, 2015Stockholm, Sweden
Win18–4Ovince Saint Preux (OSP)Decision (unanimous) (48–47, 48–47, 49–46)55:00UFC Fight Night: Bader vs. Saint PreuxAugust 16, 2014Bangor, Maine, U.S.
Win17–4Rafael Cavalcante (Feijão)Decision (unanimous) (30–27, 30–27, 30–27)35:00UFC 174: Johnson vs. BagautinovJune 14, 2014Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Win16–4Anthony Perosh (The Hippo)Decision (unanimous) (30–27, 30–27, 30–26)35:00UFC Fight Night: Hunt vs. BigfootDecember 7, 2013Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Loss15–4Glover Teixeira (The Giant Slayer)TKO (punches)12:55UFC Fight Night: Teixeira vs. BaderSeptember 4, 2013Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
Win15–3Vladimir Matyushenko (The Janitor)Submission (guillotine choke)10:50UFC on Fox: Johnson vs. DodsonJanuary 26, 2013Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
Loss14–3Lyoto Machida (The Dragon)KO (punches)21:32UFC on Fox: Shogun vs. VeraAugust 4, 2012Los Angeles, California, U.S.
Win14–2Quinton Jackson (Rampage)Decision (unanimous) (30–27, 30–27, 30–27)35:00UFC 144: Edgar vs. HendersonFebruary 26, 2012Saitama, Japan
Win13–2Jason Brilz (The Kansas City Bandit)KO (punch)11:17UFC 139: Shogun vs. HendersonNovember 19, 2011San Jose, California, U.S.
Loss12–2Tito Ortiz (The Huntington Beach Bad Boy)Submission (guillotine choke)11:56UFC 132: Cruz vs. Faber 2July 2, 2011Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S.
Loss12–1Jon Jones (Bones)Submission (guillotine choke)24:20UFC 126: Silva vs. BelfortFebruary 5, 2011Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S.
Win12–0Antônio Rogério Nogueira (Minotoro)Decision (unanimous) (30–27, 30–27, 30–27)35:00UFC 119: Mir vs. Cro CopSeptember 25, 2010Indianapolis, Indiana, U.S.
Win11–0Keith Jardine (The Dentist)KO (punch)32:10UFC 110: Nogueira vs. VelasquezFebruary 20, 2010Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Win10–0Eric Schafer (The American Psycho)Decision (unanimous) (30–27, 30–27, 30–27)35:00UFC 104: Machida vs. ShogunOctober 24, 2009Los Angeles, California, U.S.
Win9–0Carmelo Marrero (The Bull Shark)Decision (unanimous) (29–28, 29–28, 29–28)35:00UFC Fight Night: Condit vs. KampmannApril 1, 2009Nashville, Tennessee, U.S.
Win8–0Vinicius Magalhães (Pezão)TKO (punches)12:18The Ultimate Fighter 8 FinaleDecember 13, 2008Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S.Won The Ultimate Fighter 8 Light Heavyweight Tournament
Win7–0Buckley AcostaSubmission (arm-triangle choke)10:47Xtreme Combat Cage 6: Western ThreatApril 5, 2008Chico, California, U.S.
Win6–0Brad PetersonDecision (unanimous)35:00IFO: Fireworks in the Cage IVDecember 28, 2007Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S.
Win5–0Ulysses CortezKO (punches)1N/ASupreme Events: Vale TudoOctober 27, 2007Reno, Nevada, U.S.
Win4–0Dicky ChavezTKO (punches)10:41King of the Cage: UnstoppableSeptember 15, 2007Reno, Nevada, U.S.
Win3–0Tim PeacockTKO (punches)22:50World Fighting Championships: Rumble in the Red RocksJune 9, 2007Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S.
Win2–0David BaggettSubmission (rear-naked choke)1N/AProving Grounds 1May 12, 2007Yuma, Arizona, U.S.
Win1–0Dave CovelloTKO (submission to punches)12:21World Fighting Championships: Desert StormMarch 31, 2007Reno, Nevada, U.S.Professional debut
Record and fight details sourced from Sherdog.

Pay-per-view bouts

Ryan Bader has competed in five pay-per-view events across his UFC and Bellator/PFL career, achieving a 3-2 record in these high-profile bouts that often featured title implications or marquee matchups. These appearances highlight his status as a draw in major promotions, contributing to significant viewership and advancing his legacy as a top and contender. Bader's PPV debut came at on February 5, 2011, where he challenged for the UFC Championship in the co-main event at Mandalay Bay Events Center in . Despite a strong wrestling base, Bader was submitted via in the second round at 4:20, marking his first career loss in a and solidifying Jones' dominance. The event drew approximately 750,000 PPV buys, boosted by the main event of vs. . Over a year later, Bader returned to PPV at UFC 144 on February 26, 2012, in the co-main event against Quinton "Rampage" Jackson at in Saitama, , part of the UFC's historic return to the country after a long hiatus. Bader dominated with superior wrestling and striking, securing a victory (30-27 on all cards) to rebound from his title loss and earn a signature win over the former champion. The card, headlined by vs. , generated 375,000 PPV buys and underscored Bader's growing international appeal. Transitioning to Bellator MMA, Bader headlined the promotion's second PPV event, Bellator 180 (also known as Bellator NYC), on June 24, 2017, against Phil Davis for the vacant Light Heavyweight Championship at in . In a closely contested rematch, Bader captured the title via (29-28, 28-29, 29-28), showcasing his endurance and in a bout that drew estimates of 90,000 to 130,000 buys amid the card's star-studded lineup including vs. . Bader's next PPV outing was at Bellator 214 on January 26, 2019, in the grand prix final against at The Forum in , serving as the co-main event to a title fight. Bader quickly overwhelmed the MMA legend with a first-round via punches at 0:35, becoming Bellator's first simultaneous and champion and boosting his profile with an estimated over 200,000 PPV buys for the event's global appeal. In his most recent PPV appearance, Bader competed at PFL vs. Bellator Champions Series on , 2024, defending his Bellator Heavyweight Championship against Renan Ferreira in the main event at Kingdom Arena in , , marking PFL's first PPV under its new partnership and branding evolution post-Bellator acquisition. Ferreira ended Bader's reign with a devastating first-round via punches at 0:21, highlighting the Brazilian's power in a superfight that drew attention for its crossover significance despite the quick finish. These bouts represent Bader's 60% win rate on PPV, with his performances often driving event narratives around championship stakes and rivalries, contributing to collective viewership exceeding 1.5 million buys across the events while establishing him as a reliable headliner in multiple promotions.

NCAA wrestling record

Ryan Bader competed for the wrestling team from 2002 to 2006 at the 197-pound weight class, compiling a career total of 120 wins, which ranks eighth all-time in program history. His collegiate success included three Pac-10 championships (2003, 2004, 2006) and two All-American honors with fourth-place finishes at the NCAA Championships in both 2004 and 2006. In 2025, Bader was inducted into the Sun Devil Hall of Fame for his wrestling achievements. In his freshman 2002–03 season, Bader won the Pac-10 championship at 197 pounds despite a 24–18 overall record. As a in 2003–04, he repeated as Pac-10 champion and placed fourth at the NCAA Championships, earning his first All-American honor. During his junior year in 2004–05, Bader recorded a 31–8 mark and finished as Pac-10 runner-up while entering the NCAA Championships as the No. 7 seed. Bader's senior season in 2005–06 saw him achieve a 28–4 record entering nationals, where he placed fourth again for his second All-American honor, along with his third Pac-10 title. Bader's dual meet performances highlighted his prowess against top programs. He defeated Iowa's Dane Pape via pin in 2:23 during a 2004 matchup and majored Adam Fellers 9–1 in 2005. Against Oklahoma State, a perennial powerhouse, Bader went 5–1 in a narrow decision loss as the No. 14-ranked wrestler in 2006. After graduating from ASU in 2006, Bader competed in select amateur wrestling exhibitions, including freestyle events, which honed his skills and directly influenced his early success with takedowns in mixed martial arts transitions.

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  22. https://www.sherdog.com/news/articles/5-Defining-Moments-Ryan-Bader-192690
  23. https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/story/sports/mma/2008/11/13/team-nogueira-blog-ryan-bader-on-episode-no-9-of-tuf8/82558431007/
  24. https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/story/sports/mma/2008/12/23/team-nogueira-blog-ryan-bader-on-tuf-8-finale/82557367007/
  25. http://ufcstats.com/fight-details/106088694fa0c682
  26. http://ufcstats.com/fight-details/5c612d2cc1f5da21
  27. https://www.si.com/boxing/2011/11/17/bader-learns-to-work-smart-ahead-of-ufc-139
  28. https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/18961419/long-ufc-light-heavyweight-ryan-bader-signs-bellator-mma
  29. https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/story/sports/bellator/2017/06/24/bellator-nyc-ryan-bader-light-heavyweight-title-phil-davis-split-decision/82277972007/
  30. https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/29714865/vadim-nemkov-stuns-ryan-bader-win-bellator-light-heavyweight-title
  31. https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/33177701/ryan-bader-retains-bellator-heavyweight-title-unanimous-decision-valentin-moldavsky
  32. https://www.tapology.com/fightcenter/fighters/ryan-bader-darth
  33. https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/38944774/what-pfl-purchase-bellator-means-mma-fighters-fans
  34. https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/39590342/pfl-vs-bellator-champs-live-results-analysis
  35. https://www.mmafighting.com/2025/3/31/24396819/ryan-bader-explains-decision-to-split-with-pfl-open-to-potential-ufc-reunion-for-final-fights
  36. https://www.mmafighting.com/2025/3/27/24394989/ex-bellator-heavyweight-champion-ryan-bader-parts-ways-with-pfl
  37. https://www.mmafighting.com/2025/5/4/24423498/ryan-bader-announces-rizin-signing
  38. https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/story/sports/pfl/2025/05/04/ryan-bader-mma-free-agent-signs-rizin-heavyweight-grand-prix-bellator-pfl/83445406007/
  39. https://www.facebook.com/ryanbader/posts/back-from-the-movie-tour-and-back-to-the-fight-grind-when-we-got-done-filming-th/1369474467883514/
  40. https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/story/sports/mma/2025/11/05/ryan-bader-books-rizin-ff-debut/87105384007/
  41. https://x.com/RIZINTV_/status/1986011631055216987
  42. https://www.tapology.com/fightcenter/fighters/112918-alexandr-soldatkin
  43. https://www.japantimes.co.jp/sports/2025/10/01/more-sports/ryan-bader-rizin-smashing-machine/
  44. https://www.playerwives.com/mma/ryan-baders-wife-daisy-bader/
  45. https://issuu.com/lifestylepubs/docs/queen_creek_2023_6_print
  46. http://vitalbypoet.com/stories/more-than-a-fuel
  47. https://www.sherdog.com/news/news/Ryan-Bader-The-Smashing-Machine-More-Than-Just-Another-Sports-Movie-198544
  48. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rYeAlEQQLCg
  49. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6DYKBoBcxyM
  50. https://middleeasy.com/mma-news/ryan-bader-joins-team-chandler-tuf-31/
  51. https://www.sherdog.com/events/UFC-The-Ultimate-Fighter-8-Finale-8765
  52. https://www.mmafighting.com/2017/11/4/16604992/bellator-186-results-ryan-bader-retains-light-heavyweight-title
  53. https://thesundevils.com/news/2013/04/17/player-bio-ryan-bader-arizona-state-university-official-athletic-site
  54. https://nwhof.org/national-wrestling-hall-of-fame/champions-database?wrestler=9284
  55. https://thesundevils.com/news/2025/08/07/2025-sun-devil-hall-of-fame-class-announced
  56. https://www.ufc.com/news/ryan-bader-climbing-mountain-again
  57. http://ufcstats.com/fighter-details/c0ab242c40decc55
  58. https://www.ufc.com/event/ufc-126
  59. https://www.tapology.com/search/mma-event-figures/ppv-pay-per-view-buys-buyrate
  60. https://www.tapology.com/fightcenter/events/44784-bellator-180-sonnen-vs-silva
  61. https://www.mmamania.com/2017/7/20/16004526/bellator-ppv-buys-for-sonnen-vs-silva-nyc-could-reach-130000
  62. https://www.espn.com/mma/fightcenter/_/id/401088955/league/bellator
  63. https://www.sportskeeda.com/mma/where-and-how-to-watch-fedor-fight-in-bellator-214
  64. https://pflmma.com/news/pfl-champions-vs-bellator-champions
  65. https://thesundevils.com/news/2006/03/18/wrestling-sits-sixth-behind-three-top-7-finishers
  66. https://520sportstalk.com/2025/08/2025-sun-devil-hall-of-fame-class-announced/
  67. https://thesundevils.com/news/2006/03/13/ncaa-championships-await-sun-devil-wrestlers
  68. https://thesundevils.com/news/2004/03/20/bader-closes-out-2003-04-wrestling-season-with-fourth-place-finish
  69. https://hawkeyesports.com/news/2004/11/27/iowa-beats-arizona-state-29-10
  70. https://hawkeyesports.com/news/2005/11/26/iowa-defeats-arizona-state-26-13
  71. https://thesundevils.com/news/2006/01/14/no-18-wrestling-falls-to-no-1-oklahoma-state-38-3
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