Jared ‘The Killa Gorilla’ Cannonier, originating from Dallas, Texas, is a top contender in the UFC Middleweight division (185 lbs). The Texas native made his professional MMA debut in 2011 and quickly gained a reputation for his knockout power and versatile fighting skills, securing the Alaska Fighting Championship Heavyweight title along the way. Cannonier joined the UFC in 2015, initially competing in the Heavyweight and Light Heavyweight divisions before making a successful transition to Middleweight. This move revitalized his career, leading to notable victories over fighters like Sean Strickland, Anderson Silva, and Kelvin Gastelum. Known for his technical striking skills, he has earned multiple Performance of the Night bonuses throughout his UFC tenure.
One of his career highlights includes setting a record for the most significant strikes in a UFC Middleweight bout with 241 strikes landed against Marvin Vettori in 2023. Despite setbacks such as injuries and a loss to Israel Adesanya in a title fight, Cannonier remains a formidable force in the division. As of February 2025, he is slated to headline against Gregory Rodrigues on February 15, 2025.
Jared Cannonier Military Background
Before embarking on his mixed martial arts career, Jared Cannonier served in the United States Army. He was stationed in Alaska, working as an air traffic controller after his discharge from the military. His service in the Army lasted three years, ending due to a positive test for marijuana.
Also Read: Jared Cannonier's Next Fight
What did Jared Cannonier do in FAA?
Following his military service, Cannonier transitioned into a civilian role with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) before fully committing to his MMA career. Cannonier worked for the FAA as an air traffic control mechanic. In this role, he was responsible for maintaining and repairing communication systems and other equipment essential for air traffic control operations. Cannonier balanced this demanding job with his training regimen, often fitting in workouts around his shifts.
FAQs On Jared Cannonier
A. Yes, Jared Cannonier served in the United States Army.
A. Jared Cannonier was stationed in Alaska.
A. Jared Cannonier was discharged from the army as he tested positive for marijuana in his system.
A. Jared Cannonier worked as an air traffic control mechanic in the FAA. In this role, he was responsible for maintaining and repairing communication systems and other equipment essential for air traffic control operations.
A. Jared Cannonier made his UFC debut on January 3, 2015, at UFC 182, where he faced Shawn Jordan in a heavyweight bout. Unfortunately, Cannonier lost the bout.
