Kyler Phillips
Kyler John Phillips (born June 12, 1995) is an American mixed martial artist who competes in the Bantamweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship. Background. At the age of 3, Phillip's father took him to the Gracie Academy out of Torrance, California, where he developed a lifelong love for it. At the age of 12, Phillips took part in pankration fights and had his first MMA fight at the age of 16. Phillips also wrestled at Temecula Valley High School. He is a Carlson Gracie BJJ Brown belt, and a Nikidokai black/red belt under grandmaster Hanshi  Nico. Among some other accomplishments of Phillips are IBJJF jiu-jitsu world champion blue belt (2012), California State judo champion (2010), and California Southern Section CIF wrestling champion at 138 lbs (2013). Mixed martial arts career. Early career. After a 4–0 record on the regional scene, including an impressive win at against Jonathan Quiroz, was invited to first season of Dana White's Contender Series 4 in 2017, when he only needed 46 seconds to stop James Gray Jr. While not being offered a contract to the UFC, he was brought in to compete on . On the show he lost  a majority decision to eventual season winner Brad Katona. Then came his first official pro defeat, a split decision to Victor Henry in a 2018 bout before a head kick knockout of Emeka Ifekandu in 2019 earned him his call to the Octagon. Ultimate Fighting Championship. Phillips made his UFC debut against Gabriel Silva on February 29, 2020, at . He won the bout in dominant fashion via unanimous decision. This win earned him the "Fight of the Night bonus." Phillips faced Cameron Else on October 4, 2020, at . He won the bout via stoppage due to elbows on the ground  in the second round. This win earned him the "Performance of the Night bonus." Phillips faced Yadong Song on March 6, 2021, at UFC 259. He won the bout via unanimous decision. Phillips was scheduled to face Raphael Assunção on July 24, 2021, at . However, Assunção suffered a biceps injury in late June and was replaced by Raulian Paiva. Phillips lost the fight via majority decision. This fight earned him the "Fight of the Night" award. Phillips faced Marcelo Rojo on February 12, 2022, at UFC 271. He won the fight via triangle armbar submission in round three. Kyler Phillips