I had some problems growing up in the streets in high school,”. “I had to fight to prove myself. I was the outcast. Always, someone would challenge me. So I have that little bit of craziness in me that, sometimes, I can easily lose my emotions.
Black belt in Shotokan Black belt in Taekwondo
John Makdessi (born May 3, 1985) is a first generation Lebanese-Canadian born to Lebanese parents. His martial arts training started with Taekwondo at the age of 6. When John started high school though, his dojo closed, and he could no longer continue. Towards the end of high school at the age of 17, he found a Karate Dojo. He spent a lot of his time competing in Kickboxing tournaments, and in 2006 won a gold medal in the USKBA. After going 22-0 in Kickboxing, John started training for Mixed Martial Arts.
In the UFC
Makdessi signed with the UFC in 2010, making his promotional debut on December 11, 2010 at UFC 124 in Montreal against Pat Audinwood. Despite his obvious height and reach disadvantage, Makdessi was able to dominate Audinwood with inventive kicks, whilst also being able to stop Audinwood’s attacks effectively. After three rounds, Makdessi was declared the winner via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-26).
Makdessi faced Dennis Hallman on December 10, 2011 at UFC 140. Hallman was able to take Makdessi to the ground early in the opening round and land multiple strikes from Makdessi’s back before securing a fight ending rear naked choke, giving Makdessi the first loss of his career.
Makdessi fought fellow striker Anthony Njokuani on April 21, 2012 at UFC 145. Makdessi lost the fight via unanimous decision.
Makdessi next faced Sam Stout on November 17, 2012 at UFC 154. He defeated Stout via unanimous decision.
Professional Record Breakdown | ||
12 matches | 10 wins | 2 losses |
by knockout | 7 | 0 |
by submission | 0 | 1 |
by decision | 1 | 3 |
Makdessi knocked fellow lightweight Kyle Watson unconscious with a thrilling, spinning backfist at 1:27 of the third round.