Nick Catone (born 1981

Class of 1999), retired professional mixed martial artist who fought in the Ultimate Fighting Championship.[39]

What is Nick Catone (born 1981 known for?

Nick Catone, born on September 1, 1981 in Brick Township, New Jersey, U.S., is a retired professional mixed martial artist famously known as 'The Jersey Devil'. He holds the impressive rank of a 3rd degree Black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, under Ricardo Almeida, and was an active NCAA Division I Wrestler. His mixed martial arts career was launched in 2007 and continued till 2015.

This Brick Memorial High School alumnus began wrestling during his middle school years, continuing throughout his high school years. During this time, he won numerous wrestling awards and titles including New Jersey State place winner, three-time Division I national qualifier, 2x Division I conference champion, and achieved 100 Division I career wins. He was awarded a scholarship to wrestle for Rutgers University and later transferred to Rider University, where he was honored with the Male Athlete of the Year title in 2004. He graduated from Rider with a bachelor's degree in psychology.

Soon after college, he vented out his passion for wrestling into mixed martial arts, honing his boxing and Brazilian jiu-jitsu skills. His professional fighting career in the Ultimate Fighting Championship was initiated in 2007. However, his debut fight against Amir Sadollah at UFC 91 was canceled due to his opponent's leg infection.

His successful debut eventually occurred at UFC Fight Night: Lauzon vs. Stephen, against Derek Downey, which he won via keylock in the second round. Although he faced some losses, he also had remarkable wins, returning victorious after his fight against Jesse Forbes at UFC Fight Night 20.

In total, his mixed martial arts record includes 14 fights, 10 of which he won - 3 by knockout, 3 by submission, and 4 by decision. Despite his career experiencing some ups and downs, Catone's unyielding spirit and contribution to the sport remain significant, with his life serving as an inspiring example for aspiring athletes. For more details of his career and achievements, visit his personal website.