Michael Chiesa

Michael Chiesa: The Technical Submission Specialist and UFC Veteran in the Welterweight Division

Michael "Maverick" Chiesa, born December 7, 1987 in Aurora, Colorado, is an American mixed martial artist (MMA) who competes in the UFC welterweight division. Chiesa is known for his strong grappling skills, particularly Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and his ability to finish fights via submission. As a veteran of the sport, Chiesa has faced numerous top competitors and established himself as one of the most respected and technically gifted fighters in the division.

Early Life and Career

Michael Chiesa began his MMA career in Washington, where he developed his passion for martial arts. With a background in wrestling and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Chiesa began his professional MMA career in regional promotions across the United States, where he built his skills and was soon noticed by larger organizations.

Chiesa got his big break in 2012 when he competed on The Ultimate Fighter: Live reality show, where he won the lightweight edition. His victory in the final against Al Iaquinta via rear-naked choke marked the beginning of his UFC career and showed that he was a formidable grappler with a lot of potential.

UFC Career

After making a successful debut in the UFC following The Ultimate Fighter, Chiesa began his ascent in the lightweight division, posting impressive wins against tough competitors such as Beneil Dariush, Jim Miller and Francisco Trinaldo, often standing out for his strong grappling and ability to dominate his opponents on the ground.

In 2018, Chiesa decided to move up to welterweight due to the tough weight cuts he had to endure in the lightweight division. The move up to welterweight proved to be a good decision, as Chiesa began his rise in the division with wins over Carlos Condit, Diego Sanchez, and former champion Rafael dos Anjos. His ability to take his opponents to the ground and control them with his grappling made him a serious contender in the division.

Style and Technique

Michael Chiesa is best known for his strong grappling and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He uses his wrestling background to bring his opponents to the ground, where he can apply his control and submission techniques. Chiesa is particularly adept at executing rear-naked chokes, a submission that has won him many of his fights.

In addition to his grappling, Chiesa is also a smart and technical fighter. His size and reach allow him to work effectively in both stand-up and ground combat. While his striking is less dominant than his ground game, he is able to use punches and kicks effectively to create openings for takedowns.

Chiesa is also known for his fighting spirit and his ability to adapt to different fighting situations. His constant pressure and determination make him a tough opponent for anyone in the welterweight division.

Future Ambitions

Michael Chiesa remains focused on his goal of breaking through to the top of the welterweight division and eventually earning a shot at the UFC title. His technical ability and experience make him a constant threat to the top of the division, and he continues to work on improving his all-around game to create bigger opportunities.

Conclusion

Michael Chiesa is a respected veteran of the UFC welterweight division, known for his strong grappling and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. His move from lightweight to welterweight has given him a new opportunity to showcase his skills against some of the best fighters in the world. With his experience, technical ability and tenacity, Chiesa remains a serious challenger in the division and a name to watch for the future of the UFC.