Matthew Semelsberger (born November 23, 1992) is an American mixed martial artist who competed in the Welterweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship.
Semelsberger started 15 games for the Red Foxes at strong safety in his career with a great senior season of 67 tackles, 5 pass deflections, 1 sack, and 1 forced fumble.
Having done some years of youth wrestling, Matthew wanted to learn how to fight in case he ever found himself in a position where violence was his only option.
After one of his wrestling buddies showed him his collection of the Ultimate Fighting Championship DVDs and VHS tapes, he was enamored with the sport and decided to start his goal of making the UFC.
[5][6] Starting his professional career in 2017, Semelsberger compiled a 6-2 record in the regional East Coast scene, competing in such promotions like CFFC, where he won a close decision against Zulkarnaiyn Kamchybekov at CFFC 74,[7] Maverick MMA where he won a bout against Kris Gratalo at Maverick MMA 15 after Gratalo threw in the towel between rounds due to a broken arm,[8] and Art of War Cage Fighting, where Semelsberger picked up his final win before being given a UFC contract after knocking out Richard Patishnock at AoWCF 17.
[9] Semelsberger was initially scheduled to make his promotional debut against Philip Rowe at UFC on ESPN: Munhoz vs. Edgar on August 22, 2020.
[12] Semelsberger made his sophomore appearance in the promotion against Jason Witt at UFC Fight Night: Edwards vs. Muhammad on March 14, 2021.