Luke Sanders (born December 12, 1985) is an American mixed martial artist currently competing in the Bantamweightdivision of the Ultimate Fighting Championship. A professional competitor since 2011, he has also formerly competed for Strikeforce and the RFA.
Background
Born in Brenham, Texas and raised in Nashville, Tennessee, Sanders was athletic from a young age; he won national titles in BMX and finished fourth at the grand nationals event in 1992 at the age of seven. In wrestling, he won a state championship for Montgomery Central High School in 2004 at 145 lbs. Sanders also played hockey, winning two state championships in 2001 and 2002. He began competing in Toughman contests at the age of 17, winning several tournaments, and holds an amateur boxing record of 9-0.
Early career
Sanders compiled an amateur record of 4-0 before making his professional debut for Strikeforce in 2011. Sanders won via TKO in the first round. He then continued his unbeaten streak, compiling a record of 10-0 before being signed by the UFC.
Ultimate Fighting Championship
Sanders made his promotional debut as a short notice injury replacement on January 17, 2016 against Maximo Blanco at UFC Fight Night: Dillashaw vs. Cruz. He won the fight via submission in the first round and was awarded a Performance of the Night bonus.
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