Marcus McGhee


Marcus Julius McGhee is an American professional mixed martial artist, currently competing in the Bantamweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship.

Early life

McGhee was born in Detroit, Michigan, and was raised by his single mother, as his father spent most of his life in prison.

Mixed martial arts career

Early career

As an amateur, McGhee's record was 3–2 while winning those three fights consecutively and capturing the Iron Boy MMA Featherweight Championship. He turned pro in 2020, compiling a 6–1 record in his first seven professional fights.

Ultimate Fighting Championship

In his promotional debut, as a late replacement for Brian Kelleher, who was forced to withdraw, McGhee faced Journey Newson in a 140 pounds catchweight bout on April 29, 2023, at UFC on ESPN 45. McGhee won the fight via a rear-naked choke in the second round. This win earning him the Performance of the Night award.
McGhee was scheduled to face Gastón Bolaños on August 12, 2023, at UFC on ESPN 51. However, Bolaños withdrew due to undisclosed reasons and was replaced by JP Buys. He won the fight via knockout in the first round. This win earned him his second consecutive Performance of the Night award.
The bout between McGhee and Bolaños was rescheduled for January 13, 2024, at UFC Fight Night 234. He won the fight via technical knockout in the second round. This win earning his third straight Performance of the Night award.
McGhee faced Jonathan Martinez on November 26, 2024, at UFC 309. He won the fight via unanimous decision, the first decision victory of his career.
McGhee faced former UFC Bantamweight Champion Petr Yan on July 26, 2025, at UFC on ABC 9. He lost the fight by unanimous decision.

Personal life

McGhee currently resides in Phoenix, Arizona. He is married with four kids.

Championships and accomplishments

Mixed martial arts

  • Ultimate Fighting Championship
  • *Performance of the Night vs.
  • Iron Boy MMA
  • *Iron Boy MMA Featherweight Championship
  • MMA Fighting
  • *2023 Third Team MMA All-Star
  • Phoenix New Times – Best of Phoenix 2024: Boomtown
  • *2024 Best Cannabis Athlete

    Mixed martial arts record

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Amateur record

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