Jess Liaudin

Jess Liaudin (born 21 December 1973) is a French mixed martial artist, kickboxer and film actor. A professional MMA competitor from 1990 until 2014, he competed for UFC, Pancrase, Cage Rage, and King of the Cage.

Liaudin trained in martial arts from eight years old; in karate initially and then moving on to kickboxing. From the age of 16, he has been fighting in a variety of full-contact competitions. He has fought in over 84 amateur and professional fights in mixed martial arts, Muay Thai, and kickboxing.

Liaudin began his professional MMA career in 2000 as a Middleweight, compiling a 6–0 record before facing his first defeat.

Liaudin signed to the UFC upon the heels of a three-fight winning streak, facing Dennis Siver at UFC 70. In arguably the most significant win of his career, Liaudin defeated Siver via first-round armbar just 1:21 into the fight.

After another first-round stoppage via TKO over Anthony Torres at UFC 75, Liaudin was scheduled to face Anthony Johnson at UFC 80. However, the bout was scrapped due to a hand injury Johnson suffered during training, and Liaudin instead returned at UFC 85 against Marcus Davis. Liaudin was knocked out in the first round.

After dropping a split decision to Paul Taylor at UFC 85, Liaudin then returned to the Lightweight division, facing David Bielkheden at UFC 89. Liaudin lost via unanimous decision, and was subsequently released from the promotion.

Liaudin had a successful remainder of his career after the UFC, winning his final six fights.