Jeff Hughes (fighter)

Jeff Hughes (born May 17, 1988) is an American mixed martial artist. A professional since 2014, he has also fought in the Ultimate Fighting Championship and Legacy Fighting Alliance, where he was a former heavyweight champion.

Background
Hughes was born and raised in Canton, Ohio. He played basketball and wrestled in high school. He then turned to MMA after he graduated from high school in his hometown of Canton, Ohio.

Early career
After compiling an amateur record of 11-3 from 2007 until 2013, Hughes started his professional MMA career in 2014 and fought under numerous organizations, notably Legacy Fighting Alliance where he was the Heavyweight Champion twice. He amassed a record of 9-1 before competing in Dana White's Contender Series 14.

Dana White's Contender Series
Hughes appeared in Dana White's Contender Series 14 web-series program on July 24, 2018, facing Josh Appelt. He won the fight via first-round TKO. With this win, Hughes was awarded a contract with the UFC.

Ultimate Fighting Championship
Hughes made his UFC debut on March 9, 2019 at UFC Fight Night 146 against Daniel Spitz. However, Spitz pulled out of the fight in February citing injury and he was replaced by Maurice Greene. He lost the fight via a split decision.

Hughes faced Todd Duffee on September 14, 2019 at UFC Fight Night 158. The bout ended in the first round as a no contest due to an accidental eye poke that rendered Duffee unable to continue.

Hughes faced Raphael Pessoa on October 26, 2019 at UFC Fight Night 162. He lost the fight via unanimous decision.

Hughes was expected to face promotional newcomer Carlos Felipe on March 14, 2020 at UFC Fight Night 170. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the event was eventually postponed.

Hughes faced Juan Espino on September 27, 2020 at UFC 253. He lost the fight via submission in round one.

On October 2, 2020 it was reported that Hughes was released by the UFC.

Championships and accomplishments

 * Legacy Fighting Alliance
 * Legacy Fighting Alliance Heavyweight Championship (Two times) vs. Richard Odoms and Maurice Greene