Reuben Duran
Reuben Duran (born July 2, 1983) is an American professional mixed martial artist currently competing in the Flyweight division. A professional since 2006, he has competed for the UFC, Shooto, and King of the Cage. He is the current King of the Cage Light Flyweight Champion, as well as the former Interim Flyweight Champion. Background. Duran started training martial arts at the age of seven. By the time he turned 14 he had added boxing to training regimen and by 19 was training in all aspects of MMA including the additions of wrestling, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and Muay  Thai. Mixed martial arts career. Early career. Reuben began his career with multiple fights for King of the Cage, and other small promotions in California. As an amateur competitor, Duran has distinguished himself by being a six time winner of Grapplers Quest. In a memorable match, Duran fought Greg Guzman, hiding his injuries that included 2 torn ligaments in his right hand. In spite of the injuries, Duran still earned the victory. Later, in an interview, Duran voiced his confidence that were it not for the injury, he would have gotten a stoppage. Duran would support his bold statement in  his next fight as he claimed a victory over Ryan Diaz via KO with only 3 seconds left in the fight. In subsequent bouts, Duran submitted both Kana Hyatt and Maurice Eazel in the first round. Ultimate Fighting Championship. Duran signed with the UFC in early 2011 and made his debut at UFC on Versus 3 against Takeya Mizugaki, replacing an injured Francisco Rivera. Duran lost the fight via close split decision. Duran faced Francisco Rivera on June 4, 2011 at The Ultimate Fighter 13 Finale. He won the fight via submission in the third round, earning "Submission of the  Night" honors. Duran next faced Hugo Viana on December 15, 2012 at . After being knocked down twice, he eventually lost the fight via KO late in the first round. Duran then faced George Roop on March 16, 2013 at UFC 158. He lost the fight via unanimous decision and was subsequently released from the promotion. Post-UFC career. Over a year after his release from UFC, Duran returned to King of the Cage in June 2014. Duran faced Tony Sanchez at KOTC: Slugfest on June 5, 2014. He won the fight via second round TKO.