UFC fighters explain why they fight for a living

Jeremy Stephens, left, hits Dennis Bermudez during their mixed martial arts bout at UFC 189 on Saturday, July 11, 2015, in Las Vegas. Credit: AP / John Locher
Some see it as a natural progression from training in the martial arts as a child. Others see it as a natural progression from getting into fights in the streets.
Whatever the reason, these men and women are drawn to competitive mixed martial arts and fighting.
What's the appeal?
Hear from seven different fighters as they explain why they fight in the video above.
More MMA

Yan upsets LI's Dvalishvili at UFC 323 to take the title
1m read

UFC 323 is LI-trained Dvalishvili's fourth title fight of 2025
2m read

UFC 320: Pereira regains title, Dvalishvili retains his
2m read

LI's Livingston fighting for UFC dream

A UFC fight at the White House? Dana White says it's happening as part of deal with Paramount
4m read