Pichel was expelled from multiple schools due to his behavior during his youth. He never graduated, and at the age of 15 he was already using drugs which ultimately led him to get kicked out from his home by his mother. For five years he was using drugs and lacking permanent residence but after getting introduced to MMA by his friend, Pichel straightened out and started ambitious training.
Pichel compiled an amateur record of 10-1 before turning professional in 2009. He won his first seven fights by KO/TKO before trying out for.
The Ultimate Fighter: Live
Pichel was one of 32 Lightweight fighters announced by the UFC to participate in first live season of The Ultimate Fighter reality show. Pichel advanced into the TUF house and won two bouts before losing to Al Iaquinta.
Ultimate Fighting Championship
After reaching the semifinals in, Pichel was given an opportunity in the UFC. He made his official UFC debut on December 15, 2012. Pichel fought promotional newcomer Rustam Khabilov and lost the fight via KO due to a suplex and punches in the first round. Pichel next fought Garett Whiteley at on January 15, 2014. He won the fight by a unanimous decision. Pichel faced Anthony Njokuani at UFC 173 on May 24, 2014. He won the fight via unanimous decision. In the months after the fight, Pichel suffered a torn labrum and bicep, sidelining him for three years. After an extended hiatus, Pichel returned to face Damien Brown on June 11, 2017 at UFC Fight Night 110. He won the fight via knockout in the first round. Pichel faced Joaquim Silva on January 27, 2018 at. He won the fight by unanimous decision. Pichel faced Gregor Gillespie on June 1, 2018 at UFC Fight Night 131. He lost the fight via arm-triangle choke in the second round. Pichel faced Roosevelt Roberts on June 29, 2019 at UFC on ESPN 3. He win the fight via unanimous decision. The fight was the last of his prevailing contract with the UFC, making him a free agent. Pichel was scheduled to face Alexander Yakovlev on November 9, 2019 at UFC on ESPN+ 21 However, Pichel pulled out of the fight on October 24 citing an undisclosed injury and was replaced by Roosevelt Roberts.
Personal life
Pichel formerly worked for AAA while also fighting in the UFC. Later, he went to school to become an electrician instead.
