Ryan Thomas (fighter)


Ryan Drew Thomas is an American mixed martial artist. He was a two-time national qualifier in college wrestling at Waubonsee Community College before transferring to Eastern Illinois University, where he wrestled at the NCAA Division I level and earned a bachelor's degree in elementary education.

Mixed martial arts career

After completing his collegiate wrestling career, Thomas compiled a 4–0 amateur record, winning the 16-man “Iowa Meanest Man Tournament” in Davenport, Iowa. Following his undefeated amateur run, he turned professional, competing initially at middleweight before moving to the welterweight division. His early success on the regional circuit eventually propelled him to a short-notice debut in the Ultimate Fighting Championship in 2008.

Ultimate Fighting Championship

Thomas made his UFC debut at UFC 87: Seek and Destroy after stepping in on 12 days' notice to replace the injured Jared Rollins in a bout against Ben Saunders. Thomas lost the fight via submission in the second round.
Thomas was originally scheduled to fight Matt Riddle at UFC 91, but Riddle withdrew due to injury. Thomas instead faced Matt Brown, who stepped in as a replacement opponent. Thomas lost the bout by armbar submission in the second round, and he was released from the promotion following the bout.

Bellator Fighting Championships

In April 2010, Thomas signed with Bellator and entered the promotion's Season Two Welterweight Tournament. He lost his first bout with Ben Askren at Bellator 14 via first-round stoppage in what was considered a controversial finish.
After Jim Wallhead withdrew from the tournament, Thomas was reinserted into the bracket and faced Jacob McClintock at Bellator 15, winning by first-round TKO to advance to a semifinal rematch with Askren. Thomas lost the rematch at Bellator 19 via unanimous decision, with all three judges scoring the bout 30–27 for Askren.
Thomas later faced Wallhead on October 14, 2010, at Bellator 32, losing by unanimous decision.

Championships and accomplishments

  • Colosseum Combat
  • * CC Welterweight Championship
  • * Interim CC Welterweight Championship
  • Courage Fighting Championships
  • * CFC Welterweight Championship