Gerald Meerschaert: The Experienced American UFC Middleweight Fighter and Submission Specialist
Gerald "GM3" Meerschaert, born December 18, 1987 in Racine, Wisconsin, is an accomplished mixed martial artist (MMA) competing in the UFC middleweight division. Known for his impressive grappling skills, Meerschaert is one of the most skilled submission specialists in the UFC. With numerous submission wins, he has established himself as a formidable opponent in the competitive middleweight division.
Early Life and Career
Gerald Meerschaert began his martial arts career in high school wrestling and transitioned to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and MMA. He made his professional MMA debut in 2007 and fought in regional promotions for years before getting his chance to shine on the world stage.
With his strong grappling background and consistent work ethic, Meerschaert built an impressive record, with most of his victories coming via submission. His specialty in finishing fights via submission caught the attention of larger organizations, which eventually led to his move to the UFC.
UFC Career
Gerald Meerschaert made his UFC debut in December 2016 at The Ultimate Fighter 24 Finale, where he defeated Joe Gigliotti via submission (anaconda choke) in the first round. This dominant performance marked the beginning of his UFC career, in which he established himself as a dangerous submission specialist in the middleweight division.
Meerschaert has since fought some of the best fighters in the division, including Khamzat Chimaev, Kevin Holland, and Ian Heinisch. Although he has suffered some setbacks, Meerschaert remains a constant threat due to his ability to take fights to the ground and force submissions.
One of his most memorable victories came in 2021, when he defeated rising fighter Makhmud Muradov via submission (rear-naked choke) in the second round at UFC on ESPN 30. The win once again highlighted his superior grappling and cemented his reputation as an elite submission specialist.
Style and Technique
Gerald Meerschaert is a versatile fighter, but his strength lies in his grappling and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He is exceptionally skilled in finding submissions from various positions, whether it is on the ground or in clinch situations. Meerschaert is best known for his rear-naked chokes, guillotines, and anaconda chokes, with which he has won the majority of his fights.
Although his grappling is his greatest strength, Meerschaert has also worked on his striking. He is able to fight standing and often uses his striking to create transitions to the ground. His experience and fighting mentality make him a dangerous challenger in any fight.
Future Ambitions
Gerald Meerschaert is determined to consolidate his position in the UFC middleweight division and remains focused on achieving consistent victories. His goal is to break through to the top of the division and eventually fight for the UFC middleweight title. With his experience and technical skills, he remains a serious contender against any opponent in the division.
Conclusion
Gerald Meerschaert is one of the most experienced and skilled submission specialists in the UFC middleweight division. With his strong grappling background and ability to finish fights via submission, he remains a constant threat to his opponents. As he continues to work on his career and develop his skills, Meerschaert remains a name to watch for the future of the middleweight division.