Yancy Medeiros
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Yancy Medeiros
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Yancy Medeiros Jr. (born September 7, 1987) is a former American mixed martial artist who competes in the Lightweight division. A professional competitor since 2007, he has competed for the Ultimate Fighting Championship, Bellator MMA, and Strikeforce.

Key Information

Early life

[edit]

Medeiros grew up in Wai'anae Hawaii and at a young age began training in Karate. He is of Filipino and Native Hawaiian descent,[2] known as Hapa Pukiki and Hapa Pilipino. Medeiros wrestled for his Waianae High School wrestling team, placing third in the state wrestling tournament his senior season. Yancy credits Kawika Pa'aluhi, an early pioneer of MMA in Hawaii, with motivating him to train and pursue a career in MMA.[3]

Mixed martial arts career

[edit]

Early career

[edit]

Medeiros began his career 4–0 before defeating EliteXC veteran Po'ai Suganuma at Destiny MMA: Pier Fighter 1. After winning two more fights to bring his record to 7–0, fighting as a Light Heavyweight, he then signed with Strikeforce.

Strikeforce

[edit]

In his Strikeforce debut, moving down to Middleweight, Medeiros defeated Raul Castillo by unanimous decision at Strikeforce Challengers: Kaufman vs. Hashi. No. His next fight came against Gareth Joseph which Medeiros won via first-round KO due to punches at Strikeforce: Fedor vs. Werdum.[4]

Medeiros was expected to face John Salter at Strikeforce Challengers: Woodley vs. Saffiedine.[5] However, Medeiros was forced from the bout with an injury.[6]

Ultimate Fighting Championship

[edit]

On January 31, 2013, it was announced that Medeiros would be brought over to the Ultimate Fighting Championship as part of the Strikeforce transition.

He dropped two weight classes to Lightweight and made his UFC debut against Rustam Khabilov on April 27, 2013, at UFC 159.[7] The fight ended in unusual fashion as Medeiros dislocated his thumb during a takedown by Khabilov early in the first round, resulting in a TKO victory for Khabilov as Medeiros was unable to continue.

Medeiros took on Yves Edwards at UFC Fight For The Troops 3 on November 6, 2013.[8] He won by KO in the first round. The win, however, was subsequently overturned when Medeiros tested positive for marijuana in his post-fight drug test.[9]

Medeiros was expected to face promotional newcomer Joe Ellenberger on April 26, 2014, at UFC 172.[10] However, in the week leading up to the event, Medeiros was pulled from the Ellenberger bout in favor of a match up on the main card with Jim Miller after his scheduled opponent Bobby Green pulled out of the bout.[11] Medeiros lost the fight via submission in the first round.

Medeiros was expected to face Justin Edwards on August 30, 2014, at UFC 177.[12] However, Edwards pulled out of the event in the days leading up to the event citing an injury. Medeiros instead faced promotional newcomer Damon Jackson.[13][14] Medeiros won the fight by submission in the second round. The win also earned Medeiros his first Performance of the Night bonus award.[15]

Medeiros faced Joe Proctor on December 12, 2014, at The Ultimate Fighter 20 Finale.[16] Medeiros won the fight in the first round after dropping Proctor with a spinning back kick to the body and securing a guillotine choke to earn the submission. The result also earned Medeiros a Performance of the Night bonus.[17]

Medeiros was expected to face Tony Ferguson on February 28, 2015, at UFC 184.[18] However, Medeiros pulled out of the bout citing injury and was replaced by Gleison Tibau.[19]

Medeiros faced Dustin Poirier on June 6, 2015, at UFC Fight Night 68.[20] He lost the fight via TKO in the first round.[21]

Medeiros faced John Makdessi on December 12, 2015, at UFC 194.[22] He won the fight by split decision.[23]

Medeiros next faced Francisco Trinaldo on May 14, 2016, at UFC 198.[24] He lost the fight via unanimous decision.[25] Both participants were awarded Fight of the Night honors.[26]

Move up to welterweight

[edit]

Medeiros faced Sean Spencer in a welterweight bout on September 10, 2016, at UFC 203.[27] He won the fight via submission in the second round and was awarded a Performance of the Night bonus.[28][29]

Medeiros was expected to face Li Jingliang on January 28, 2017, at UFC on Fox 23.[30] However, in early January, Medeiros pulled out for undisclosed reasons and was replaced by promotional newcomer Bobby Nash.[31]

Medeiros faced Erick Silva on June 3, 2017, at UFC 212.[32] He won the fight via TKO in the second round.[33]

Medeiros faced Alex Oliveira on December 2, 2017, at UFC 218.[34] He won the back-and-forth fight via TKO in the third round.[35] The win also earned him his second Fight of the Night bonus award.[36]

Medeiros faced Donald Cerrone on February 18, 2018, at UFC Fight Night 126.[37] He lost the fight via technical knockout out in round one.[38]

Medeiros was expected to face Mike Perry on July 7, 2018, at UFC 226.[39] However, Medeiros pulled out of the fight on June 27 citing a rib injury and was replaced by Paul Felder.[40]

Return to lightweight

[edit]

Medeiros faced Gregor Gillespie in a lightweight bout on January 19, 2019, at UFC Fight Night 143.[41] He lost the fight via TKO in the second round.[42]

Medeiros faced Lando Vannata on February 15, 2020, at UFC Fight Night: Anderson vs. Błachowicz 2.[43] He lost the fight via unanimous decision.[44]

Replacing injured Nikolas Motta, Medeiros was scheduled to fight Damir Hadžović on May 22, 2021, at UFC Fight Night: Font vs. Garbrandt.[45] However, the bout was pulled from the card just hours before taking place due to health issues with Hadžović.[46] The pairing was rescheduled on June 26, 2021, at UFC Fight Night 190.[47] He lost the fight via unanimous decision.[48] Subsequently, he tested positive for marijuana and was suspended for four-and-a-half months by NSAC, making him eligible to return to competition on November 9, 2021.[49]

In August 2021, Medeiros was released from UFC.[50]

Bellator MMA

[edit]

Medeiros faced Emmanuel Sanchez on April 23, 2022, at Bellator 279.[51] Medeiros won the bout via unanimous decision.[52]

Medeiros faced Charlie Leary on April 22, 2023, at Bellator 295.[53] Even though he was dropped in the bout, Medeiros dropped Leary and after a barrage of punches, submitted him via rear-naked choke at the end of the first round.[54] It was later announced that the victory was overturned to a no contest after Medeiros tested positive for a banned substance.[55]

Medeiros next faced Jora Ayvazyan on September 7, 2024 at Bellator Champions Series 4, losing the fight via unanimous decision.[56]

Personal life

[edit]

Medeiros started off his career fighting at light heavyweight. He then moved down to middleweight and eventually made his lightweight debut at UFC 159. Medeiros credits Nick Diaz and Nate Diaz for changing his diet and work ethic which allowed him to lose weight and move down in weight classes.[57]

Championships and accomplishments

[edit]

Mixed martial arts record

[edit]
Professional record breakdown
27 matches 16 wins 9 losses
By knockout 8 4
By submission 4 1
By decision 4 4
No contests 2
Res. Record Opponent Method Event Date Round Time Location Notes
Loss 16–9 (2) Jora Ayvazyan Decision (unanimous) Bellator Champions Series 4 September 7, 2024 3 5:00 San Diego, California, United States
NC 16–8 (2) Charlie Leary NC (overturned) Bellator 295 April 22, 2023 1 4:39 Honolulu, Hawaii, United States Catchweight (165 lb) bout. Originally a Submission (rear-naked choke) win for Medeiros; overturned after he tested positive for a banned substance.
Win 16–8 (1) Emmanuel Sanchez Decision (unanimous) Bellator 279 April 23, 2022 3 5:00 Honolulu, Hawaii, United States
Loss 15–8 (1) Damir Hadžović Decision (unanimous) UFC Fight Night: Gane vs. Volkov June 26, 2021 3 5:00 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States
Loss 15–7 (1) Lando Vannata Decision (unanimous) UFC Fight Night: Anderson vs. Błachowicz 2 February 15, 2020 3 5:00 Rio Rancho, New Mexico, United States
Loss 15–6 (1) Gregor Gillespie TKO (punches) UFC Fight Night: Cejudo vs. Dillashaw January 19, 2019 2 4:59 Brooklyn, New York, United States Return to Lightweight.
Loss 15–5 (1) Donald Cerrone TKO (punches) UFC Fight Night: Cowboy vs. Medeiros February 18, 2018 1 4:58 Austin, Texas, United States
Win 15–4 (1) Alex Oliveira TKO (punches) UFC 218 December 2, 2017 3 2:02 Detroit, Michigan, United States Fight of the Night.
Win 14–4 (1) Erick Silva TKO (punches) UFC 212 June 3, 2017 2 2:01 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Win 13–4 (1) Sean Spencer Submission (rear-naked choke) UFC 203 September 10, 2016 2 0:49 Cleveland, Ohio, United States Welterweight debut. Performance of the Night.
Loss 12–4 (1) Francisco Trinaldo Decision (unanimous) UFC 198 May 14, 2016 3 5:00 Curitiba, Brazil Fight of the Night.
Win 12–3 (1) John Makdessi Decision (split) UFC 194 December 12, 2015 3 5:00 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States
Loss 11–3 (1) Dustin Poirier TKO (body kick and punches) UFC Fight Night: Boetsch vs. Henderson June 6, 2015 1 2:38 New Orleans, Louisiana, United States Catchweight (159.5 lb) bout; Medeiros missed weight.
Win 11–2 (1) Joe Proctor Submission (guillotine choke) The Ultimate Fighter: A Champion Will Be Crowned Finale December 12, 2014 1 4:37 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States Performance of the Night.
Win 10–2 (1) Damon Jackson Submission (reverse bulldog choke) UFC 177 August 30, 2014 2 1:54 Sacramento, California, United States Performance of the Night.
Loss 9–2 (1) Jim Miller Technical Submission (guillotine choke) UFC 172 April 26, 2014 1 3:18 Baltimore, Maryland, United States
NC 9–1 (1) Yves Edwards NC (overturned) UFC: Fight for the Troops 3 November 6, 2013 1 2:47 Fort Campbell, Kentucky, United States Originally a KO (punches) win for Medeiros; overturned after he tested positive for Marijuana.
Loss 9–1 Rustam Khabilov TKO (thumb injury) UFC 159 April 27, 2013 1 2:32 Newark, New Jersey, United States Lightweight debut.
Win 9–0 Gareth Joseph KO (punches) Strikeforce: Fedor vs. Werdum June 26, 2010 2 1:19 San Jose, California, United States
Win 8–0 Raul Castillo Decision (unanimous) Strikeforce Challengers: Kaufman vs. Hashi February 26, 2010 3 5:00 San Jose, California, United States
Win 7–0 Zeke Prados TKO (punches) Destiny MMA: Maui No Kaoi August 22, 2009 1 2:23 Wailuku, Hawaii, United States
Win 6–0 Jake Yasui Submission (rear-naked choke) UNU 1: Seek and Destroy March 21, 2009 1 1:46 Wailuku, Hawaii, United States
Win 5–0 Po'ai Suganuma TKO (punches) Destiny MMA: Pier Fighter 1 November 15, 2008 3 0:37 Honolulu, Hawaii, United States Light Heavyweight bout.
Win 4–0 Gino Venti Decision (unanimous) Hawaii Fight League 4 October 12, 2008 3 3:00 Waipahu, Hawaii, United States Middleweight debut.
Win 3–0 Larry Perreira KO (punches) Hawaii Fight League 3 May 3, 2008 1 2:37 Waipahu, Hawaii, United States
Win 2–0 Eddie Ohia TKO (punches) Hawaii Fight League 2 January 12, 2008 1 1:23 Honolulu, Hawaii, United States
Win 1–0 Rigo Mendoza KO (punches) Hawaii Fight League 1 October 19, 2007 1 N/A Honolulu, Hawaii, United States Light Heavyweight debut.

See also

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References

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[edit]

Grokipedia

Yancy Medeiros

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from Grokipedia
Yancy Medeiros is an American professional mixed martial artist who competes in the lightweight division, renowned for his aggressive kickboxing style and finishing ability with both strikes and submissions. Born on September 7, 1987, in Makaha, Hawaii, he turned professional in 2007 after a background in karate and wrestling, and has built a career spanning multiple promotions, including the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and Bellator MMA, with an overall record of 16 wins, 9 losses, and 2 no contests as of September 2024.[1][2] Medeiros debuted in the UFC on April 27, 2013, at UFC 159, where he suffered a first-round TKO loss to Rustam Khabilov, but quickly rebounded with a series of victories, including submission wins over Damon Jackson and Joe Proctor in 2014.[1][2] His UFC tenure, which spanned from 2013 to 2021, included notable performances such as a third-round TKO over Alex Oliveira at UFC 218 in 2017 and a second-round TKO of Erick Silva at UFC 212 in 2017, showcasing his knockout power with 8 of his 16 career wins coming by KO/TKO.[1][2] However, he faced setbacks against top contenders, including first-round TKOs to Dustin Poirier in 2015 and Donald "Cowboy" Cerrone in 2018, contributing to his UFC record of 6-8 with 1 no contest.[1][2] After his last UFC bout—a unanimous decision loss to Damir Hadžović in June 2021—Medeiros transitioned to other promotions, including a unanimous decision defeat to Zhora Ayvazyan at Bellator Champions Series 4 in September 2024, marking his most recent fight.[2] Training primarily with Team Hakuilua and influenced by fighters like Nick and Nate Diaz, Medeiros stands at 5 feet 10 inches with a 75.5-inch reach, and he has expressed admiration for his father's resilience in his personal life, while previously working as a painter before focusing full-time on MMA.[1][2]

Biography

Early life

Yancy Medeiros was born in Ewa Beach on September 7, 1987, and raised in the Makaha community on Oahu's West Side in Hawaii. Of mixed Filipino and Native Hawaiian descent, he grew up in a challenging environment marked by poverty and community hardships, including living near a beach shack where his homeless grandparents resided from a young age. His upbringing instilled a strong sense of family and aloha spirit, reflecting the tight-knit, tribal-like bonds of the Wai'anae-Makaha area.[2][3][4][5] As a chubby child, Medeiros began training in Universal Kempo Karate at age five, encouraged by his father to build discipline and fitness. This early exposure to martial arts fostered his competitive nature and laid the groundwork for his athletic pursuits, while family influences emphasized resilience amid West Side struggles like exposure to drugs and gangs. He represented Hawaiian heritage through sports, drawing pride from local cultural values that shaped his mindset.[4][1][3] Medeiros attended Waianae High School, where he excelled in wrestling, competing for the school's team and embracing the sport despite its unconventional appeal in his community. In 2005, his senior year, he won the Oahu Interscholastic Association championship in the 189-pound weight class and secured third place at the Hawaii state wrestling tournament by defeating Jared Silva of Saint Louis 11-6 in the consolation match. These achievements highlighted his dedication under coaches who nurtured his talent.[6][7][4] Inspired by local combat sports figures, including early Hawaiian MMA pioneer Kawika Pa'aluhi, Medeiros developed an interest in mixed martial arts during his late teens after high school. Having ballooned to 245 pounds post-graduation, he turned to MMA training as a way to regain fitness and channel his wrestling background into a new discipline, marking the start of his athletic evolution.[6][1]

Personal life

Yancy Medeiros is of mixed Filipino and Native Hawaiian descent, and he takes great pride in representing Hawaii in mixed martial arts, viewing it as a core aspect of his identity and motivation. Raised on Oahu, he emphasizes the cultural significance of aloha in his life and career, often highlighting how his heritage shapes his approach to competition and community.[8][5] As a father of four children, Medeiros has drawn parallels between parenting and his fighting mindset, stressing discipline, resilience, and continuous self-improvement in both realms. He describes raising his kids as akin to preparing for a fight, where each challenge builds character and requires adaptability, and he aims to be a better parent with every milestone. His family provides unwavering support, treating him "like a king" and enabling him to balance his professional pursuits with home life in Hawaii, especially after welcoming a newborn in 2024. Medeiros shifted his perspective post-COVID, moving from living with his family to living for them, which has deepened his sense of purpose.[5][9][10][11] Medeiros credits mentors Nick and Nate Diaz with influencing his weight management and career decisions, particularly through their introduction of a plant-based diet that facilitated his drop from light heavyweight to lightweight and improved his overall health. This change, adopted during an injury recovery period around 2013, not only aided his performance but also benefited his family's well-being, with relatives experiencing significant health gains. In post-2021 media appearances, such as the 2025 "The Long Game" podcast, Medeiros reflected on career longevity, personal growth, and not letting fighting define him, while emphasizing balance as a veteran fighter and father.[12][13] Tied to his Hawaiian heritage, Medeiros has engaged in community involvement, including speaking at the 2025 "Warriors Don't Bully" anti-bullying event in Waipahu, where he urged parents to take accountability for their children's environments and mentorship needs. He also participated in the 2018 "Be a Hero for Hawai‘i Challenge," a fundraising effort with fellow athletes that raised nearly $100,000 for Kīlauea volcano eruption victims through the Hawai‘i Community Foundation.[14][15]

Fighting style and training

Fighting style

Yancy Medeiros is renowned for his aggressive, high-volume striking approach, heavily influenced by Muay Thai, which emphasizes powerful punches, knees, and kicks to overwhelm opponents.[16] His knockout power is a cornerstone of his style, evidenced by 8 KO/TKO victories comprising 50% of his professional wins, often delivered through signature techniques like devastating knees to the body and head in close range.[2] This forward-pressure tactic creates fan-friendly, high-paced exchanges, with Medeiros landing 4.36 significant strikes per minute at a 37% accuracy rate during his UFC tenure.[17] Complementing his stand-up game, Medeiros possesses strong submission grappling rooted in wrestling fundamentals, securing 4 submission wins (25% of his total victories), primarily via guillotine chokes and rear-naked chokes.[2] He averages 0.7 submission attempts per 15 minutes, frequently transitioning from strikes to clinch-based chokes when opportunities arise.[17] Over his career, he has adapted by bolstering his takedown defense to 73% in UFC competition, allowing him to maintain striking ranges while improving cardio to sustain three-round wars.[17] Despite these strengths, Medeiros' aggressive pressure exposes vulnerabilities, particularly to counters in stand-up battles, where he absorbs 5.67 significant strikes per minute and has suffered 4 KO/TKO losses (44% of defeats).[17] His orthodox stance and tendency to lead with power shots can lead to overextension, making precise defense a noted area for refinement.[18]

Training background

Yancy Medeiros began his martial arts training in local facilities on Oahu, Hawaii, starting with karate as a youth before shifting to wrestling during his high school years at Waianae High School, where he placed third in the state tournament in his senior season.[19][20] This wrestling background, under coach Kawika Pa'aluhi—an early pioneer of MMA in Hawaii—provided the foundational grappling skills that propelled him into mixed martial arts.[6] Throughout his professional career, Medeiros has maintained his primary training camp at Team Hakuilua in Makaha, Hawaii, a West Side facility that emphasizes community-driven preparation and has supported his development as a versatile fighter.[21][16] He began his MMA-specific training at West Oahu MMA, an accessible local gym open to aspiring fighters, which helped him transition from amateur wrestling to professional bouts in the mid-2000s.[22] Following his Strikeforce appearances in 2010, Medeiros incorporated training camps with the Diaz brothers at Cesar Gracie Jiu-Jitsu in California, focusing on enhancing his Brazilian jiu-jitsu and ground game to complement his wrestling base.[23][24] Post-Strikeforce, he shifted emphasis toward striking development during Hawaii-based sessions, often sparring with elite partners like Max Holloway to refine stand-up techniques for UFC matchups.[25][26] In preparation for major promotions, Medeiros has utilized extended camps combining local Hawaiian resources with targeted travel, such as months-long sessions ahead of international fights, incorporating recovery protocols like beach runs and family-supported rest to manage the demands of weight class transitions.[27][28] In later years, his routine has evolved to prioritize holistic recovery methods, including lighter sessions with Hawaiian training partners to sustain longevity at age 38.[29]

Mixed martial arts career

Early career

Yancy Medeiros made his professional mixed martial arts debut on October 19, 2007, at Hawaii Fight League 1 in Honolulu, Hawaii, where he secured a first-round knockout victory over Rigo Mendoza via punches.[2] Competing primarily in regional promotions across Hawaii and the Pacific circuits, Medeiros quickly established himself as a promising talent, compiling an undefeated 7-0 record before entering a major promotion.[2] Early in his career, Medeiros fought at light heavyweight, showcasing a developing knockout-heavy style against local opponents. Notable wins included a first-round TKO over Eddie Ohia on January 12, 2008, at Hawaii Fight League 2 (light heavyweight, 198 lbs), a first-round KO of Larry Perreira on May 3, 2008, at Hawaii Fight League 3, a unanimous decision over Gino Venti on October 12, 2008, at Hawaii Fight League 4, and a third-round TKO of Po'ai Suganuma on November 15, 2008, at Destiny MMA: Pier Fighter 1.[2][30] He continued his streak with a first-round submission of Jake Yasui via rear-naked choke on March 21, 2009, at Ultimate Fighting Network 1, and a first-round TKO of Zeke Prados on August 22, 2009, at Destiny MMA: Maui No Ka'oi.[2] These victories, five of which ended by knockout or TKO, highlighted his aggressive striking approach and finishing ability in smaller shows.[2] In early 2010, after building his foundation at light heavyweight, Medeiros signed with Strikeforce, marking a significant step-up to a premier promotion.

Strikeforce

Yancy Medeiros entered Strikeforce, one of the premier MMA promotions in the United States at the time, with an undefeated professional record of 7-0, transitioning from regional circuits to a national stage. His debut occurred on February 26, 2010, at Strikeforce Challengers 6 in Las Vegas, Nevada, where he faced the previously unbeaten Raul Castillo in a middleweight bout. Medeiros dominated the fight with sharp striking, nearly finishing Castillo in the first round while stuffing multiple takedown attempts to keep the action standing. He secured a unanimous decision victory (30-27 on all scorecards) after three rounds, improving his record to 8-0 and showcasing his evolving stand-up game against solid competition.[31][32] Medeiros' follow-up appearance came on June 26, 2010, at the high-profile Strikeforce / M-1 Global: Fedor vs. Werdum event in San Jose, California, co-headlined by Fedor Emelianenko's heavyweight clash. Stepping in on short notice against late replacement Gareth Joseph (6-2), Medeiros controlled the first round with aggressive pressure, landing combinations and a knee to the body while defending takedowns. In the second round, he trapped Joseph against the fence, wobbled him with a counter left hook, and finished with a devastating right hand for a knockout victory at 1:19. This emphatic stoppage elevated his record to 9-0 and highlighted his knockout power in a bout broadcast to a wider audience.[33][34] Medeiros concluded his Strikeforce tenure with a perfect 2-0 record, having competed twice in the promotion before its acquisition by Zuffa (the parent company of the UFC) in March 2011. These victories against mid-level opponents like Castillo and Joseph refined his skills in a more competitive environment, emphasizing his striking precision and defensive wrestling. The exposure from Strikeforce events, particularly the Fedor vs. Werdum card, boosted his visibility among MMA fans and scouts, positioning him for opportunities in larger promotions.[2][6]

Ultimate Fighting Championship

Medeiros made his Ultimate Fighting Championship debut on April 27, 2013, at UFC 159 against Rustam Khabilov, losing via first-round TKO due to a thumb injury at 2:32. He rebounded with a first-round knockout victory over Yves Edwards on November 6, 2013, at UFC Fight Night: Fight for the Troops 3, but the result was overturned to a no contest after Medeiros tested positive for marijuana metabolites, resulting in a 90-day suspension.[35] On April 26, 2014, at UFC 172, he faced Jim Miller and lost via first-round technical submission (guillotine choke) at 3:18. Medeiros secured back-to-back submission wins in 2014, first defeating Damon Jackson via second-round technical submission (reverse bulldog choke) at 1:54 on August 30 at UFC 177, earning a Performance of the Night bonus, followed by a first-round guillotine choke submission over Joe Proctor at 4:37 on December 12 at The Ultimate Fighter 20 Finale.[36] His momentum stalled with a first-round TKO loss to Dustin Poirier on June 6, 2015, at UFC Fight Night 68, but he won a split decision against John Makdessi on December 12, 2015, at UFC 194. In his next bout on May 14, 2016, at UFC 198, Medeiros dropped a unanimous decision to Francisco Trinaldo, though both fighters received Fight of the Night honors.[37] After inconsistent results and missing weight at lightweight, Medeiros moved up to welterweight in 2016.[38] He submitted Sean Spencer via rear-naked choke at 0:49 of the second round on September 10, 2016, at UFC 203, earning another Performance of the Night award. Medeiros continued his welterweight success with a second-round TKO (punches) over Erick Silva on June 3, 2017, at UFC 212, and a third-round TKO (punches) against Alex Oliveira on December 2, 2017, at UFC 218. Returning to lightweight in 2018, Medeiros suffered a first-round TKO loss to Donald Cerrone on February 18 at UFC Fight Night 126.[39] He then lost via second-round TKO to Gregor Gillespie on January 19, 2019, at UFC Fight Night 143. After an 18-month layoff, Medeiros dropped a unanimous decision to Lando Vannata on February 15, 2020, at UFC Fight Night 167.[40] His final UFC bout came on June 26, 2021, at UFC Fight Night 190, where he lost a unanimous decision to Damir Hadžović.[41] Medeiros was released from the UFC in August 2021, concluding his Octagon tenure with a 6-8 record and one no contest, along with four post-fight bonuses totaling $200,000.[42]

Bellator MMA

Following his release from the Ultimate Fighting Championship in 2021, Yancy Medeiros signed a one-fight deal with Bellator MMA to make his promotional debut in his home state of Hawaii, aiming to compete closer to family and reignite his passion for the sport.[43] This opportunity allowed him to extend his career while staying based in Honolulu, where he could train locally and represent his island community.[11] After a successful outing, he inked a long-term contract with the promotion, emphasizing the value of work-life balance: "Now, we can stay home and be together [and] grow together."[43][11] Medeiros debuted at Bellator 279 on April 23, 2022, in Honolulu, defeating Emmanuel Sanchez by unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28) in a three-round lightweight bout that showcased his striking volume and resilience in front of a supportive home crowd.[44] His next appearance came at Bellator 295 on April 22, 2023, also in Honolulu, where he originally submitted Charlie Leary via rear-naked choke in the first round at 4:39, but the result was later overturned to a no contest after Medeiros tested positive for a banned substance.[45][46] Medeiros returned on September 7, 2024, at Bellator Champions Series 4 in San Diego, California, where he lost to Zhora Ayvazyan by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27) in a fight dominated by Ayvazyan's wrestling and takedown control.[47] Across three Bellator bouts, Medeiros holds a record of 1-1 with one no contest, with his Hawaii-based fights highlighting a veteran phase focused on regional ties and personal fulfillment over high-volume scheduling.[2] At 37, he continues to compete driven by family support and the joy of martial arts, stating, "I’m a martial artist. I want to keep competing" while prioritizing time with loved ones to sustain longevity in the sport.[11] As of November 2025, Medeiros has not competed in any further bouts following his loss to Ayvazyan.[5]

Achievements and record

Championships and accomplishments

Yancy Medeiros has not captured any major world titles in his professional mixed martial arts career, but he has earned several performance-based accolades, particularly during his tenure in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). His achievements highlight his aggressive, fan-friendly style and resilience, contributing to 16 total professional victories, including a 50% knockout rate across eight stoppages.[2] In the UFC, Medeiros received the Performance of the Night award for his first-round guillotine choke submission victory over Joe Proctor at The Ultimate Fighter 20 Finale on December 12, 2014, earning a $50,000 bonus for the standout performance.[48] He also secured Fight of the Night honors on two occasions: first, for his three-round unanimous decision loss to Francisco Trinaldo at UFC 198 on May 14, 2016, recognized for its intense back-and-forth action; and second, for his third-round TKO win against Alex Oliveira at UFC 218 on December 2, 2017, a bout widely praised for its non-stop exchanges and later nominated as a contender for Fight of the Year by media outlets.[37][49] Prior to entering the UFC, Medeiros built an undefeated streak of 9-0 across regional promotions and Strikeforce, showcasing his early promise with multiple knockout victories that established him as a rising prospect in the Hawaiian MMA scene.[2] In the UFC welterweight division, he reached a peak ranking of #15 in December 2017 following his third-round TKO win over Alex Oliveira, demonstrating his finishing ability against mid-tier competition.[50]

Mixed martial arts record

Yancy Medeiros' professional mixed martial arts record stands at 16 wins, 9 losses, and 2 no contests.[2] His victories break down to 8 by knockout or technical knockout (50%), 4 by submission (25%), and 4 by decision (25%), while his defeats consist of 4 by knockout or technical knockout (44%), 1 by submission (11%), and 4 by decision (44%).[2] Medeiros began his career with a 7-0 record in regional promotions, went 2-0 in Strikeforce, achieved 6-8 with 1 no contest in the Ultimate Fighting Championship, and holds a 1-1 mark with 1 no contest in Bellator MMA.[2] From his UFC statistics, Medeiros averages 4.36 significant strikes landed per minute with 37% accuracy, 0.33 takedowns per 15 minutes, and 50% takedown accuracy.[17]
DateOpponentResultMethodRoundTimeEventLocationNotes
Oct 19, 2007Rigo MendozaWinKO (Punches)1N/AHFL 1Honolulu, HI
Jan 12, 2008Eddie OhiaWinTKO (Punches)11:23HFL 2Honolulu, HI
May 03, 2008Larry PerreiraWinKO (Punches)12:37HFL 3Honolulu, HI
Oct 12, 2008Gino VentiWinDecision (Unanimous)33:00HFL 4Honolulu, HI
Nov 15, 2008Poai SuganumaWinTKO (Punches)30:37Destiny MMA: Pier Fighter 1Honolulu, HI
Mar 21, 2009Jake YasuiWinSubmission (RNC)11:46UNU 1: Seek and DestroyHonolulu, HI
Aug 22, 2009Zeke PradosWinTKO (Punches)12:23Destiny MMA: Maui No Ka'oiMaui, HI
Feb 26, 2010Raul CastilloWinDecision (Unanimous)35:00Strikeforce Challengers 6Honolulu, HI
Jun 26, 2010Gareth JosephWinKO (Punches)21:19Strikeforce/M-1: Fedor vs. WerdumSan Jose, CA
Apr 27, 2013Rustam KhabilovLossTKO (Thumb Injury)12:32UFC 159: Jones vs. SonnenNewark, NJ
Nov 06, 2013Yves EdwardsNCNo Contest (Overturned)12:47UFC Fight Night 31: Fight for the Troops 3Fort Campbell, KYOverturned due to positive marijuana test[51]
Apr 26, 2014Jim MillerLossTechnical Submission (Guillotine)13:18UFC 172: Jones vs. TeixeiraBaltimore, MD
Aug 30, 2014Damon JacksonWinTechnical Submission (Reverse Bulldog Choke)21:54UFC 177: Dillashaw vs. SotoSacramento, CA
Dec 12, 2014Joe ProctorWinSubmission (Guillotine Choke)14:37The Ultimate Fighter 20 FinaleLas Vegas, NV
Jun 06, 2015Dustin PoirierLossTKO (Punches)12:38UFC Fight Night 68: Boetsch vs. HendersonNew Orleans, LA
Dec 12, 2015John MakdessiWinDecision (Split)35:00UFC 194: Aldo vs. McGregorLas Vegas, NV
May 14, 2016Francisco TrinaldoLossDecision (Unanimous)35:00UFC 198: Werdum vs. MiocicCuritiba, Brazil
Sep 10, 2016Sean SpencerWinSubmission (RNC)20:49UFC 203: Miocic vs. OvereemCleveland, OH
Jun 03, 2017Erick SilvaWinTKO (Punches)22:01UFC 212: Aldo vs. HollowayRio de Janeiro, Brazil
Dec 02, 2017Alex OliveiraWinTKO (Punches)32:02UFC 218: Holloway vs. Aldo 2Detroit, MI
Feb 18, 2018Donald CerroneLossTKO (Punches)14:58UFC Fight Night 126: Cerrone vs. MedeirosAustin, TX
Jan 19, 2019Gregor GillespieLossTKO (Punches)24:59UFC Fight Night 143: Cejudo vs. DillashawBrooklyn, NY
Feb 15, 2020Lando VannataLossDecision (Unanimous)35:00UFC Fight Night 167: Anderson vs. Blachowicz 2Rio Rancho, NM
Jun 26, 2021Damir HadzovicLossDecision (Unanimous)35:00UFC Fight Night 190: Gane vs. VolkovLas Vegas, NV
Apr 23, 2022Emmanuel SanchezWinDecision (Unanimous)35:00Bellator 279: Cyborg vs. Blencowe 2Honolulu, HI
Apr 22, 2023Charlie LearyNCNo Contest (Overturned)14:39Bellator 295: Stots vs. MixHonolulu, HIOverturned due to positive drug test
Sep 07, 2024Zhora AyvazyanLossDecision (Unanimous)35:00Bellator Champions Series: San DiegoSan Diego, CA

References

  1. Yancy Medeiros - UFC.com
  2. Yancy "The Kid" Medeiros MMA Stats, Pictures, News ... - Sherdog
  3. Wai'anae Warrior: The story of Yancy Medeiros and his embodiment ...
  4. Fighting the Good Fight - Hawaii Business Magazine
  5. Medeiros eager to take another step in MMA | Honolulu Star-Advertiser
  6. State wrestling results | The Honolulu Advertiser | Hawaii's Newspaper
  7. MMA's Yancy Medeiros: The UFC Lightweight with a Hawaiian ...
  8. How mixed martial artist Yancy Medeiros plays 'The Long Game'
  9. Mixed martial artist Yancy Medeiros on the similarities ... - Facebook
  10. Yancy Medeiros: Family That "Treats Me Like a King" Lets Him Do ...
  11. A New Chapter for Yancy Medeiros - Sherdog
  12. Yancy Medeiros details life-changing switch to plant-based diet ...
  13. For Move from Light Heavyweight to Lightweight, Yancy Medeiros ...
  14. Hawai'i MMA community comes together for anti-bullying event
  15. [PDF] Building a Culture of Giving - Kamehameha Schools
  16. Yancy Medeiros (Lightweight) MMA Profile - ESPN
  17. Yancy Medeiros Record: 15-8-0 (1 NC) - Stats | UFC
  18. UFC Fight Night: Cowboy vs Medeiros Technique Breakdown ...
  19. Medeiros won't stop fighting the adversity in the fight game - UFC.com
  20. Boys wrestling state placers, 1966-present - Hawaii Prep World
  21. Yancy Medeiros - Professional Fighters League
  22. Yancy Medeiros Finds His Center in Hawaii » FLUX
  23. The story of Yancy Medeiros and his embodiment of Aloha
  24. UFC 194: 'Hungry' Yancy Medeiros set to 'impose his will' on John ...
  25. Waianae's Holloway, Medeiros wrap up camp for massive UFC 194
  26. Yancy Medeiros describes what it's like to spar with Max Holloway
  27. Medeiros arrives in Brazil ahead of UFC198 on Saturday
  28. Yancy Medeiros: Just Scrap 2015 - UFC.com
  29. Yancy Medeiros Living and Fighting for His Family In This Chapter of ...
  30. Yancy Medeiros | MMA Fighter Page - Tapology
  31. https://www.mmafighting.com/2010/2/26/187116/yancy-medeiros-moves-to-8-0-for-strikeforce
  32. http://ufcstats.com/fight-details/00afc619bea2f937
  33. https://www.mmafighting.com/2010/6/26/184415/strikeforce-fedor-vs-werdum-undercard-live-blog
  34. http://ufcstats.com/fight-details/ce32437750074a04
  35. Yancy Medeiros' UFC Fight Night 31 win overturned due to failed ...
  36. UFC 177: Post-Fight Bonus Report
  37. UFC 198 post-fight bonus recap
  38. How Yancy Medeiros became 'an optimal human being' to fight at ...
  39. Donald Cerrone scores first-round KO of Yancy Medeiros - ESPN
  40. Lando Vannata wins tactical affair over Yancy Medeiros - MMA Junkie
  41. UFC Fight Night: Gane vs Volkov Results
  42. Report: Yancy Medeiros, Ryan Benoit lead recent pack of UFC ...
  43. Bellator signs Yancy Medeiros to long-term contract after successful ...
  44. https://www.sherdog.com/events/Bellator-279-Cyborg-vs-Blencowe-2-92345
  45. https://www.sherdog.com/events/Bellator-295-Stots-vs-Mix-96606
  46. Yancy Medeiros vs. Charlie Leary, Bellator 295 | MMA Bout | Tapology
  47. https://www.sherdog.com/events/Bellator-Champions-Series-San-Diego-Nurmagomedov-vs-Shabliy-101921
  48. The Ultimate Fighter: Post-Fight Bonus Report | UFC
  49. UFC 218 bonuses: Amazing night forces two 'Fight of the Night' awards
  50. Yancy Medeiros UFC Record & Stats: Interactive Charts · roster.watch
  51. UFC Statement on Yancy Medeiros
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