Urijah Christopher Faber, born on May 14, 1979, in Isla Vista, California, is a retired mixed martial artist who made a significant impact on the sport during his career. He grew up with his two siblings, Ryan and Michaella, in the town of Lincoln, where he attended Lincoln High School. It was during his time in high school that Faber discovered his love for wrestling, which would eventually lead him to pursue a career in mixed martial arts.
After graduating from high school, Faber enrolled at the University of California, Davis, where he continued to wrestle and further develop his skills. In 2003, he made his professional MMA debut and quickly rose through the ranks with his impressive performances. Faber won his first professional fight by first-round submission on November 12, 2003, marking the beginning of a successful career in the sport.
One of Faber's most notable achievements in his career was winning and holding the WEC Featherweight Championship for over two years, from 2006 to 2008. During his time as champion, he defended his title successfully multiple times, solidifying his status as one of the top fighters in the featherweight division.
Faber's influence in the sport extended beyond his performances in the cage. He served as a coach on The Ultimate Fighter 22, where he competed against Team McGregor. Faber's coaching abilities and leadership were evident as he guided his team through the competition, showcasing his dedication to helping others succeed in the sport.
In 2016, Faber announced his retirement from competitive MMA, leaving behind a legacy that would be remembered by fans and fellow fighters alike. His contributions to the sport, both as a fighter and a mentor, have left a lasting impact on the MMA community.
Following his retirement, Faber continued to stay active in the MMA world by founding Team Alpha Male, a renowned training camp that has produced numerous top fighters. He also opened Ultimate Fitness gym in Sacramento, California, providing a space for aspiring fighters to train and hone their skills.
Throughout his career, Faber won 27 of his first 33 professional fights, with 15 victories coming by way of submission. His dedication to the sport and his passion for helping others succeed have solidified his place as a legend in the world of MMA.
Urijah Faber's impact on MMA goes beyond his accolades in the cage. His commitment to the sport, both as a competitor and a mentor, has inspired a new generation of fighters to pursue their dreams and push themselves to be the best they can be. Faber's legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of those who have been touched by his influence.