Gideon Ray

Gideon Charles Ray (born May 27, 1973) is a former American professional mixed martial artist. A professional from 2000 until 2012, Ray competed for the UFC, King of the Cage, the Toronto Dragons of the IFL, and was featured on The Ultimate Fighter 4.

Background
Born and raised in Chicago, Ray began training in martial arts from a young age.

Early career
Ray made his professional debut in 2000, competing primarily at Welterweight, he amassed a record of 8–1–1 before appearing for the UFC.

Ultimate Fighting Championship
Ray made his UFC debut at UFC 51 on February 5, 2005 against Canadian David Loiseau. He was defeated via TKO due to a doctor stoppage in the first round.

After picking up a win in the regional circuit, Ray returned to the promotion at UFC Ultimate Fight Night, facing Mike Swick. He was defeated via TKO from a combination of punches just 22 seconds into the fight.

After going 4–1 in the regional circuit, Ray tried out for The Ultimate Fighter 4 and made it through to the final cast.

The Ultimate Fighter
In his quarterfinal matchup against Edwin Dewees, the two fought to a draw after two rounds, which called for a third round. As a cut had opened on Dewees face during the second round and the doctors let the fight continue. Ray lost the third round to a 10-9 decision by the judges. The bout was later called perhaps the bloodiest in Ultimate Fighter history.

At The Ultimate Fighter: The Comeback Finale, Ray faced Charles McCarthy. Ray was defeated near the end of the first round with an armbar submission.

International Fight League
After being released from the UFC, Ray signed with the IFL, competing for the Toronto Dragons. Ray made his promotional debut at IFL: Connecticut on April 13, 2007. He won via first-round TKO.

Ray next faced Brazilian Delson Heleno at IFL: Las Vegas on June 16, 2007. He was defeated via keylock submission in the second round.

The two later fought again in a rematch at the World Grand Prix Semifinals later in November of that year, with Heleno winning, this time via first-round armbar.

Independent promotions
After leaving the IFL, Ray went 3–7 in his final 10 fights, retiring in 2012.