Kyle Nelson (fighter)

Kyle Nelson (born April 20, 1991) is a Canadian mixed martial artist who competes in the UFC Featherweight division. He previously competed for the RXF promotion, as well as Elite 1 MMA. Nelson is a former featherweight champion in Elite 1 MMA.

Early career
Born and raised in Huntsville, Ontario Canada, Nelson began competing in mixed martial arts in 2011. He held a 2–1 amateur record and then competed in local North American professional promotions. During this time he won the Elite 1 MMA Featherweight Championship, and also fought for the Lightweight Championship in TXC MMA. He then signed with the RXF in Romania, Europe, and after with the UFC in 2018.

Ultimate Fighting Championship
Nelson made his promotional debut on December 8, 2018, on short notice against Carlos Diego Ferreira, replacing Jesse Ronson at UFC 231. He lost the fight via TKO in the second round.

Returning to Featherweight Nelson next faced Matt Sayles on May 4, 2019, at UFC on ESPN+ 9. He lost the fight via submission via arm-triangle choke 3:16 into round 3.

Nelson fought next at UFC on ESPN+ 17 on September 21, 2019 against Marco Polo Reyes. He won the fight via TKO at 1:36 of round 1, earning him his first UFC victory.

Nelson was scheduled to face Sean Woodson in a catchweight bout of 150 pounds on June 27, 2020 at UFC on ESPN: Poirier vs. Hooker. However, Nelson was pulled form the event due to visa issue and he was replaced by Julian Erosa.

Nelson faced Billy Quarantillo on September 12, 2020 at UFC Fight Night: Santos vs. Teixeira. He lost the fight via knockout in the third round.

Nelson faced Jai Herbert on July 23, 2022 at UFC Fight Night: Blaydes vs. Aspinall. He lost the fight by unanimous decision.

Nelson faced Choi Doo-ho on February 4, 2023, at UFC Fight Night 218. The fight ended via majority draw.

Nelson faced Blake Bilder on June 10, 2023, at UFC 289. He won the bout via unanimous decision.

Nelson faced Fernando Padilla on September 16, 2023, at UFC Fight Night 227. He won the fight via unanimous decision.

Nelson faced Bill Algeo on March 30, 2024, at UFC on ESPN 54. He won the fight via technical knockout in round one.

Nelson is scheduled to face Calvin Kattar on September 7, 2024, at UFC Fight Night 244.

Championships and accomplishments

 * Elite1 Mixed Martial Arts
 * Featherweight Championship