Michael Chiesa

Michael "Maverick" Chiesa is an American MMA fighter born December 7, 1987, from Spokane, Washington, who competed in the UFC Welterweight division for over a decade. A BJJ black belt and 6-time Pacific Northwest amateur MMA champion, he became the winner of The Ultimate Fighter: Live (Season 15) in 2012, submitting Al Iaquinta by rear-naked choke in the finale — days after his terminally ill father had passed away during the competition. His UFC career spanned two weight classes and notable wins over Carlos Condit, Rafael dos Anjos, Diego Sanchez, Neil Magny, Tony Ferguson and Max Griffin. Chiesa closed his career on a three-fight win streak, retiring in March 2026 at UFC Seattle — a homecoming fight in his home state of Washington. He also served as a UFC analyst and broadcast commentator, and as assistant wrestling coach at Shadle Park High School in Spokane. Watch all Michael Chiesa UFC fights below.