Fernando Esparza Gonzalez (born September 15, 1983)[3] is an American mixed martial artist who competes in the Welterweight division.
A professional competitor since 2003, Gonzalez has also competed for the WEC, King of the Cage, Bellator MMA, Absolute Championship Akhmat, and Strikeforce.
During high school, Gonzalez competed in football and began training in mixed martial arts after graduating at the age of 19.
[6] After going 7–3 in his next ten bouts, Gonzalez returned to the promotion when he faced Jimmy Dexter at WEC 20, defeating him via rear-naked choke submission.
However, Karo Parisyan's opponent, Marius Žaromskis, was removed from their scheduled bout on the same card, so Gonzalez stepped in as a replacement.
[26] After surviving a late flurry of strikes in the third round, Gonzalez lost the fight via unanimous decision and was subsequently released from the promotion.
[27][28] Gonzalez faced Gabriel Checco on March 9, 2019 at California Xtreme Fighting (CXF 17) and won by split decision.
[32] Gonzalez faced Sidiah Parker on August 28, 2021 at NWFA 1: Retribution and lost by unanimous decision.
[34] Gonzalez made his debut against Vincent Familari in a middleweight bout at BKFC: Knucklemania IV on April 27, 2024.
[36] Gonzalez was scheduled to face Kyle McElroy at BKFC Fight Night: Pechanga on July 12, 2024.
[38] Gonzalez was scheduled to face Erick Lozano on January 18, 2025 at BKFC Fight Night: Pechanga.