Brett McDermott

Brett McDermott (born 10 September 1978) is an English mixed martial artist, and former professional rugby league footballer. In rugby he represented Ireland, and played club level for every Cumbrian clubs except Carlisle Border Raiders. In MMA, he has been a professional competitor since 2013 and is the current BAMMA Heavyweight Champion. McDermott also competed for Rizin and Bellator MMA.

Rugby league
McDermott, who competed in professional rugby for 15 seasons, was playing for Barrow in 2009. He also represented Ireland, including games against France in 2010.

On 30 March 2011, McDermott announced his retirement from rugby league. A couple of days later, he later admitted that he had retired after being charged by the Rugby Football League (RFL) for failing a drugs test. In June 2011, the RFL confirmed that McDermott was banned for two years after testing positive for drostanolone and 19-norandrosterone.

Mixed martial arts career
After being banned from rugby league, McDermott became a MMA fighter. In 2013, he turned professional and fought Thomas Denham at BAMMA 12, but lost by submission.

McDermott competed in the Rizin Fighting Federation Heavyweight Tournament on 29 December 2015, losing in the quarterfinals against former Strikeforce Light Heavyweight Champion Muhammed Lawal by knockout.

McDermott stepped in on a few days notice as a replacement for Vladimir Filipovic to face Liam McGeary in the main event at Bellator 173. He lost the fight via TKO in the second round.

Personal life
McDermott is married with three children. He is of Irish descent.

Championships and accomplishments
Rugby league

Whitehaven
 * National League One
 * Champions - 2005

Barrow Raiders
 * Division Two Championship
 * Champions – 2009
 * Minor premiership – 2009

BAMMA
 * BAMMA World Heavyweight Championship (One time; first)