Veteran mixed martial arts fighter Jay Ellis, known for his incredibly extensive professional record, firmly believes he possessed the talent and skill necessary to compete in the UFC. This claim comes despite his official record standing at a stark 16 wins against a staggering 110 losses, suggesting he might have a point about untapped potential.
Throughout his career on the regional fighting circuit, Ellis frequently served as an opponent for numerous young, rising prospects. His long list of past competitors includes names that would surprise even dedicated fight fans, such as future UFC stars Colby Covington and Anthony Pettis, whom he faced years apart early in their careers.
Remarkably, Ellis did secure victories against some significant opponents. This includes a win over Gerald Meerschaert very early in Meerschaert`s career, back when he was only 1-0 professionally. Although Ellis lost a subsequent rematch years later, this early win highlights moments where the seasoned, though often struggling, fighter showed capability against athletes who would go on to compete at the highest level.
MMA Journeyman Jay Ellis Discusses His Career Aspirations and Struggles
Ellis recently shared his story and insights on an episode of the MMA History Podcast, which was highlighted by MMAMania. He recounted his early experiences in the sport and the challenging start to his career, including an initial run of four consecutive losses.
A critical factor Ellis pointed out was his lack of formal training camps. He noted that across his 126 professional MMA fights, plus additional boxing matches, he only underwent dedicated training camps three or four times. He feels strongly that with consistent, proper training and supportive management, he had the inherent ability to reach the UFC.
“I was winning my fights at first and people didn’t know what happened,” Ellis explained. He described how personal difficulties and inability to afford gym fees led him to try training independently. “That wasn’t too smart because I should have had a team, somebody that’s going to push me and be with me all the time telling me this, that and the third.” Facing financial pressure and having limited job options, he added, “Promoters were calling me up left and right asking me for fights, I didn’t really have much of a job, so I would take them…”
Jay Ellis` Record Features Notable Wins Despite Over 100 Losses
According to the podcast`s host, Ellis`s extensive fight history includes facing approximately 30 opponents who eventually made it to the UFC, and over a dozen fighters who competed in Bellator. Remarkably, two of his Bellator opponents went on to win championships within that promotion.
Beyond the early win over Meerschaert, Ellis`s victories include defeating Daniel Straus, who later became a Bellator Featherweight World Champion. His most recent reported win came in November 2021, where he secured a submission victory against jiu-jitsu black belt Rodrigo Almeida.
Reflecting on the caliber of fighters he`s faced, Ellis expressed a mix of pride and regret. “It’s a hell of a resume, man,” he commented, shaking his head. He conveyed a sense of sadness when seeing former opponents succeed in the UFC, feeling that he missed his opportunity. He concluded, “Every time I look at those guys who are in the UFC I get kind of sad because I know I could have been there if I had just stayed focused, man. If I just took it more seriously, had the right coaches, positive people around me, I could have made it. I get kind of sad.”
Gareth Pendleton