Chris Dempsey


Chris Dempsey is an American professional mixed martial artist who last competed in 2017. A professional since 2012, he has competed for the UFC and Bellator MMA.

Background

Born and raised in Pennsylvania, Dempsey played football, and also competed in wrestling growing up as a youngster. He was a two time All-American at University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown, where he also earned a degree in political science. He began training in mixed martial arts part-time as a college student in 2008.

Mixed martial arts career

Early career

Dempsey made his debut as an amateur in 2011, winning three fights before turning professional in 2012.
He fought primarily for regional promotions in Western Pennsylvania where he compiled a record of 10-1 competing in both the light heavyweight and middleweight divisions before signing with the UFC on the summer of 2014.

Ultimate Fighting Championship

Dempsey made his promotional debut as a short notice replacement against Ilir Latifi on July 19, 2014, at UFC Fight Night 46, filling in for Tom Lawlor. Latifi effectively used leg kicks to disable his opponent, before finishing him with punches, ending the fight by a first round knockout.
Dempsey next faced Eddie Gordon in a middleweight bout on April 18, 2015, at UFC on Fox 15. He won the fight via split decision.
Dempsey returned to the light heavyweight division as a short notice replacement to face promotional newcomer Jonathan Wilson on August 8, 2015, at UFC Fight Night 73, filling in for Jared Cannonier. He lost the fight knockout in the first round.
Dempsey faced Scott Askham on February 27, 2016, at UFC Fight Night 84. He lost the fight by knockout in the first round and was subsequently released from the promotion.

Bellator MMA

In his Bellator debut, Dempsey faced undefeated prospect Ed Ruth on November 3, 2017, at Bellator 186. He lost the fight via knockout in the second round.

Mixed martial arts record

Grappling record