Josh Samman
A mixed martial amateur fighter since the age of 18, Josh Samman turned pro in 2007 at the age of 19. Because of his grueling work ethic and uncanny ability to analyze his opponents’ moves, he won nine of his first 11 bouts. That success earned him a place on the cast of Season 17 of The Ultimate Fighter after several tries at securing a spot on the reality series. On TUF 17, Samman won three of his four bouts, losing only to eventual winner Kelvin Gastelum in the semifinals, and thanks to that run, he received a UFC fight against Kevin Casey on the Season Finale card on April 13, 2013. After a close first round, Samman won the fight via TKO in the second round.
Samman went on to win two more UFC fights, over Eddie Gordon and Caio Magalhaes, both of which garnered him Performance of the Night bonuses.
Samman’s Professional record was 12-4, and of his wins, seven were from a TKO and four were from submission. From the beginning, Josh showed an aptitude for violent finishes, always wanting to keep the crowd entertained.
In addition to his MMA Middleweight Career, Josh was an avid MMA Promoter and Journalist, doing everything in his power to promote the sport of Mixed Martial Arts and to support fighters who were following in his footsteps. He and his business partner, Mitchell Chamale, formed the award-winning MMA Promotion, Combat Night, which is now the largest MMA organization in Florida. On Saturday, September 26, 2015, Samman and Chamale celebrated a successful 50th edition of Combat Night, drawing 4,000 fans to an amateur MMA show in Tallahassee, Florida.
A popular figure in the mixed martial arts world who was embraced by the community not just for his fighting ability, but for his writing and accessibility to fans and his fellow media members. The Tallahassee native was always searching for the next adventure, whether in the Octagon or in life.
As a Journalist, Samman was a long time contributor to SB Nation's website BloodyElbow.com, and was also a columnist for UFC.com and flocombat.com. Samman loved everything about the sport of Mixed Martial Arts, and used his writing as a way to help others understand the general and intricate details of the Sport. It was in Josh’s spirit of supporting and mentoring others that his family and friends started a non-profit after Josh’s untimely passing: the Josh Samman MMA Foundation, which invests in young athletes who are pursuing their dreams in Mixed Martial Arts.