Personal Info
- Country of residence: United States
Information
Ramsey Nijem "born April 1, 1988" is an American mixed martial artist who last competed in the lightweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship. A professional MMA competitor since 2008, Nijem has made a name for himself fighting in Utah. He was a finalist on The Ultimate Fighter: Team Lesnar vs. Team dos Santos.
A Palestinian American, Nijem was born in Concord, California, but raised in Mill Creek, Washington. He attended Henry M. Jackson High School from 2002 through 2006. During those years, Nijem was a part of his high school's soccer, cross-country, and wrestling teams. His senior season in wrestling he went 27-5 and earned "Wrestler of the Year" honors. He was also wrestling captain for his junior and senior seasons.
After high school, Nijem enrolled in Utah Valley University, also wrestling for the school.
Nijem began his training with Riven Academy of MMA in 2008. Electing to skip an amateur career, Nijem made his pro debut April 18, 2008 defeating Ryan Miller via first round rear-naked choke submission. After taking a nineteen-month hiatus from the sport, he returned losing to Gordon Bell via an armbar submission only 21 seconds into the first round.
Only a month after his first loss he defeated Logan Hancock via unanimous decision, bring his professional record to 2-1. Ramsey recorded his first TKO win in April 2010, defeating Eric Uresk at Showdown Fights: Burkman vs. Paul. He made his lightweight debut against Scott Casey, winning the fight via first round submission.
In June, 2011 at his UFC debut at the TUF 13 finale, Nijem walked out to the Matisyahu song "One Day." His choice of music was significant due to Nijem's Palestinian background and Matisyahu's Orthodox Jewish background, and the moment has been recognized for its "diplomatic initiative and message centered on peace."
He splits his training time with Riven Academy of MMA, and The Pit Elevated. He is training partners to UFC veteran Josh Burkman, and The Ultimate Fighter 11 winner Court McGee.
Source Achievements and Awards
Championships and accomplishments:
- Mixed martial arts
Ultimate Fighting Championship
The Ultimate Fighter 13 Tournament Runner Up
Fight of the Night (One time)
Performance of the Night (One time)
- Years in active
: From
To