Kurt Holobaugh Makes History with Ultimate Fighter Championship Win
Kurt Holobaugh’s road to an Ultimate Fighter championship might be the most unique in the show’s history. On Saturday at UFC 292 in Boston, Holobaugh (20-7 MMA, 1-4 UFC) secured a significant victory by submitting Austin Hubbard (15-7 MMA, 3-5 UFC) in the second round of their lightweight tournament final for Season 31 of The Ultimate Fighter.
What sets Holobaugh apart from previous TUF winners is his prior experience in the UFC. Having fought for Strikeforce in 2012 and later entering the UFC when they absorbed the promotion, Holobaugh already had one UFC fight under his belt in 2013. However, a loss to Steven Siler knocked him out of the company, leading him to fight for Titan FC, where he won the featherweight and interim lightweight titles.
After a couple of years, Holobaugh found his way back to the UFC in 2018 but faced a rough 0-3 run, leaving him outside the organization once again. Determined to make a comeback, Holobaugh saw an opportunity in The Ultimate Fighter and seized it.
In his post-fight news conference, Holobaugh expressed his gratitude for the win, stating, This means the world. It means everything. I’ve worked so hard for so many years. Being 36 years old and uncertain about finding a good fighting home, Holobaugh seriously contemplated retirement. However, when he received the call for The Ultimate Fighter, he embraced the chance and ultimately emerged victorious.
Holobaugh used his win over Hubbard, who was also his teammate on the show, to call out rising Irish star Paddy Pimblett. Holobaugh believes that Pimblett has been given preferential treatment by the UFC and aims to prove his worth against him. He highlighted his experience and the challenging opponents he faced in The Ultimate Fighter house, asserting that he is more qualified to be facing someone of Pimblett’s caliber.
Looking ahead, Holobaugh acknowledged that time is not on his side as he navigates the demands of the UFC. While he is grateful for the opportunity to be back, he is determined to make a legitimate run and secure a ranking number beside his name. Holobaugh’s ultimate goal remains to become a UFC world champion.
In conclusion, Kurt Holobaugh’s journey to the Ultimate Fighter championship has been filled with ups and downs. With his history in the UFC and his triumph on The Ultimate Fighter, he has proven his resilience and determination. Now, he sets his sights on facing Paddy Pimblett and making a name for himself as he pursues his dream of becoming a UFC world champion.
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