Neil Magny
Neil Magny (born August 3, 1987) is an American professional mixed martial artist competing in the UFC welterweight division. Known as "The Haitian Sensation," he is renowned for his exceptional durability, high-volume fighting style, and status as one of the most active competitors in UFC history, holding the record for the most bouts in a single calendar year on two occasions (five fights each in 2014 and 2015). As of November 2025, Magny maintains a professional record of 31 wins and 13 losses, with notable victories including former welterweight champions Robbie Lawler and Carlos Condit.[1][2][3] Born in Brooklyn, New York, Magny began training in mixed martial arts at age 16 and made his professional debut in 2010, quickly amassing a 7-1 record before earning a spot on The Ultimate Fighter Season 16 in 2012. A former U.S. Army National Guard sergeant who deployed to Iraq in 2007 as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Magny credits his military experience with building the resilience that has defined his career; he is also a two-time All-Army Combatives Champion and holds a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. After his time on The Ultimate Fighter, he signed with the UFC and debuted in February 2013, going on to compile a 24-12 record within the promotion.[4][5][1][6] Throughout his UFC tenure, Magny has challenged for interim divisional honors, facing Demian Maia for the interim welterweight title at UFC 190 in 2015, where he fell short by unanimous decision. His career highlights include a seven-fight win streak from late 2013 to 2015, punctuated by stoppages over the likes of Hyun Gyu Lim and Rodrigo de Lima, and more recent triumphs such as a second-round TKO of Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos in August 2025 and a third-round submission of Jake Matthews in September 2025. Training out of the Elevation Fight Team in Denver, Colorado, Magny continues to embody the gatekeeper role in the welterweight division, frequently testing rising contenders while pursuing another shot at championship contention.[1][2][3]Early life
Upbringing and family background
Neil Magny was born on August 3, 1987, in Brooklyn, New York, to parents of Haitian and Dominican descent.[7][8] As a Haitian-Dominican American, Magny's ethnic heritage has profoundly shaped his personal identity, influencing his choice of the ring name "The Haitian Sensation" to honor his roots and connect with fans.[8][9] Raised in a working-class household by his single mother alongside five siblings, Magny navigated a challenging childhood marked by frequent relocations between small apartments in tough Brooklyn neighborhoods, including Bushwick, Flatbush, and Canarsie.[10][11] At age 12, his family moved to Dolton, Illinois, a Chicago suburb, seeking better opportunities in a more stable environment, though the modest circumstances persisted.[12][13] His family's encouragement played a key role in steering him toward sports as a constructive outlet during these formative years, fostering an early interest in activities like football to build discipline and avoid street troubles in Brooklyn.[14][10] This foundation later transitioned into more structured athletic pursuits upon settling in Illinois.Education and early athletics
Magny attended Thornwood High School in South Holland, Illinois, where he graduated in 2006 and distinguished himself as a dual-sport athlete in wrestling and football.[15][16] In wrestling, he competed primarily in the 189-pound weight class, participating in Illinois High School Association (IHSA) tournaments during his sophomore year, including a third-place finish at a regional event in 2004 as part of Thornwood's conference-winning team.[17][18] These experiences built his foundational competitive drive and technical skills on the mat, though he did not advance to the state championships.[19] Following his family's relocation to Illinois, Magny enrolled at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE), a public university known for its NCAA Division II athletics programs.[20] There, he pursued a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice, graduating in 2012 while continuing to compete in wrestling and football.[1][13] Magny's time on the SIUE wrestling team further refined his grappling fundamentals, emphasizing takedown defense, positional control, and endurance, which laid the groundwork for his later athletic endeavors before transitioning to mixed martial arts.[19][12]Military service
Neil Magny enlisted in the Illinois Army National Guard in 2006 shortly after graduating high school, drawn by his wrestling background and a desire to serve while pursuing athletic goals.[21] He served as a light-wheeled vehicle mechanic with the 708th Medical Company in North Riverside, Illinois, a role that involved maintaining and repairing military vehicles essential to unit operations.[22] Following enlistment, Magny completed basic training and advanced individual training for his specialty, though specific locations for his initial phases are not detailed in records. During his service, he actively participated in the Army's combatives program, placing third in the cruiserweight division at the 2010 Army National Guard Combatives Championship, which honed his grappling skills and intersected directly with his growing interest in mixed martial arts.[23] In 2007, Magny was deployed to the Middle East as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom, where he spent time training in martial arts during downtime alongside wrestlers and Brazilian jiu-jitsu practitioners, further bridging his military duties with combat sports development.[4] Some accounts also reference service in Afghanistan under Operation Enduring Freedom, underscoring his involvement in key Middle East operations during a period of intense U.S. military engagement.[24] Magny rose to the rank of sergeant over his seven-year tenure, earning recognition for his dedication before receiving an honorable discharge in 2013.[22] The discipline and resilience gained from military life, including adapting to high-stress environments, proved instrumental in his transition to professional MMA, where he credits the experience with building mental toughness for the demands of training and competition.[4]Mixed martial arts career
Amateur wrestling and early MMA
Magny developed his foundation in amateur wrestling during high school at Thornwood High School in Chicago and continued the sport at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, where he competed as part of the Cougars' wrestling team while pursuing a degree in criminal justice.[1] His college wrestling experience emphasized takedown defense and ground control, skills that later became central to his MMA approach.[25] Following his discharge from the U.S. Army in 2009, Magny transitioned to mixed martial arts, leveraging his wrestling base and military discipline to adapt to the sport's demands at local gyms in the Chicago area.[2] He made his professional MMA debut on August 7, 2010, defeating Nolan Norwood via straight armbar submission in the second round at C3 Fights: Slammin Jammin Weekend 5 in St. Charles, Missouri.[2] Over the next two years, Magny built an early professional record of 7-1, competing primarily in regional promotions across Illinois, Indiana, and Missouri. Key victories in his initial pro stretch included a unanimous decision over Nate Pratt on October 22, 2010, at C3 Fights, a second-round TKO of Lawrence Dunning on November 6, 2010, at Cut Throat MMA: Supremacy, and a third-round TKO against Darion Terry on November 19, 2010, at Rumble Time Promotions.[2] He extended his unbeaten streak to 6-0 with a unanimous decision win over Kevin Nowaczyk on April 9, 2011, at Hoosier Fight Club 7, and a quick second-round triangle choke submission of Quartius Stitt on May 14, 2011, at Combat USA: Illinois State Finals.[2] Magny's first professional loss came via first-round guillotine choke submission to Andrew Trace on July 21, 2011, at Combat USA: Wisconsin vs. Illinois Championship, but he rebounded with a unanimous decision victory over Daniel Sandmann on February 11, 2012, at Hoosier Fight Club 10 to close out the period on a high note.[2] These regional bouts honed his versatile skill set, blending wrestling prowess with emerging striking and submission abilities.The Ultimate Fighter
In 2012, Neil Magny was selected to compete on the sixteenth season of The Ultimate Fighter, subtitled Team Carwin vs. Team Nelson, entering the competition with a professional record of 7-1 after several regional bouts in the Midwest.[2] His early professional experience in promotions like C3 Fights and Hoosier Fight Club had honed his skills enough to earn him an invitation to the tryouts.[1] To secure a spot in the TUF house, Magny won his preliminary elimination fight against Frank Camacho by unanimous decision after two rounds, showcasing his reach and grappling control in a competitive matchup.[1] Assigned to Team Carwin under head coach Shane Carwin, with assistance from fighters like Roy Nelson on the opposing team, Magny advanced through the quarterfinals by defeating Bristol Marunde via unanimous decision over two rounds, relying on his wrestling to neutralize takedown attempts and outpoint his opponent on the feet.[26] Magny's tournament run ended in the semifinals, where he suffered a first-round TKO loss to Mike Ricci at 1:15 via strikes, as Ricci capitalized on a scramble to land a knockout blow despite Magny's size advantage.[1] Although eliminated short of the finals, Magny's performance during the intense training camp—marked by high-altitude sessions in Las Vegas and exposure to elite coaching—provided valuable experience and visibility, ultimately earning him a UFC contract as one of the season's participants.[27]UFC debut and early success (2013–2015)
Magny made his UFC debut on February 23, 2013, at UFC 157 against fellow The Ultimate Fighter 16 castmate Jon Manley, securing a unanimous decision victory after three rounds of dominant striking and takedown defense. His early momentum was halted by a first-round submission loss to Sergio Moraes via triangle choke at UFC 163 on August 3, 2013, followed by another unanimous decision defeat to Seth Baczynski at UFC Fight Night 31 on November 6, 2013, leaving him at 1-2 in the promotion. Magny rebounded emphatically in 2014, embarking on a five-fight winning streak that showcased his evolving skill set and propelled him into welterweight contention. He started with a unanimous decision over Gasan Umalatov at UFC 169 on February 1, 2014, outstriking his opponent with high-volume pressure. This was followed by another decision win against Tim Means at UFC Fight Night 40 on May 10, 2014, where Magny's reach advantage and cardio allowed him to control the pace over three rounds. He then notched his first UFC knockout, stopping Rodrigo de Lima with punches in the second round at UFC Fight Night 43 on June 28, 2014. Magny closed the year with unanimous decisions over Alex Garcia at UFC Fight Night 49 on August 23, 2014, and a third-round TKO of William Macario at UFC 179 on October 25, 2014, earning praise for his relentless output and opportunistic ground work. Entering 2015, Magny extended his streak to seven straight wins, solidifying his status as a volume striker with submission threats. On February 14, 2015, at UFC Fight Night 60, he submitted Kiichi Kunimoto via rear-naked choke in the third round, earning his first Fight of the Night bonus for a gritty performance in his adopted hometown of Broomfield, Colorado. He followed with a second-round TKO of Hyun Gyu Lim via punches at UFC Fight Night 66 on May 16, 2015, claiming Performance of the Night honors for his precise striking. A setback came against grappling ace Demian Maia, who submitted him with a rear-naked choke in the second round at UFC 190 on August 1, 2015. Undeterred, Magny bounced back with a split decision victory over streaking Brazilian Erick Silva at UFC Fight Night 74 on August 23, 2015, using his jab and footwork to neutralize takedown attempts. The pinnacle of Magny's early success arrived on November 21, 2015, at UFC Fight Night 78, where he upset highly touted prospect Kelvin Gastelum via split decision in a five-round main event, outlanding the shorter fighter with superior reach and volume (147 significant strikes to 103). This victory, which earned Fight of the Night, capped a remarkable 9-1 run from 2014 to 2015 and established Magny as a legitimate welterweight contender, highlighted by his ability to mix high-output boxing with timely grappling transitions.[28] Over this period, Magny compiled a 9-1 UFC record, amassing wins through decisions, knockouts, and submissions that underscored his versatility and endurance.[3]Career progression and setbacks (2016–2020)
In 2016, Magny continued building on his early UFC momentum by facing increasingly tougher opposition in the welterweight division. He started the year strong with a third-round TKO victory over former top contender Héctor Lombard at UFC Fight Night 85 on March 19, showcasing his durability after absorbing early damage and finishing with ground-and-pound.[29] However, a first-round TKO loss to Lorenz Larkin at UFC 202 on August 20 highlighted vulnerabilities in his defensive striking against powerful counterpunchers.[30] Magny rebounded decisively later that year, defeating former welterweight champion Johny Hendricks via unanimous decision at UFC 207 on December 30, a performance that solidified his status as a rising contender through effective wrestling and cardio.[31] The following year brought high-stakes matchups that tested Magny's title aspirations but also exposed grappling weaknesses. On September 9 at UFC 215, he suffered a quick first-round submission loss to former lightweight champion Rafael dos Anjos via arm-triangle choke, a bout billed as a potential title eliminator that ended Magny's momentum abruptly.[32] Undeterred, Magny returned on December 30 at UFC 219 to outpoint former welterweight champion Carlos Condit over three rounds in a unanimous decision win, relying on his reach and volume striking to control the fight and demonstrate resilience.[33] These results underscored a pattern of near-misses against elite competition, keeping him on the fringes of title contention. Magny's 2018 campaign featured a short win streak interrupted by a significant setback. He opened the year with a dominant first-round KO of Craig White via knee and punches at UFC Fight Night 130 on May 27, extending his recovery from the dos Anjos defeat.[34] However, on November 17 at UFC Fight Night 140, an upset fourth-round TKO loss to Santiago Ponzinibbio via punch halted his progress; despite entering as a heavy favorite, Magny was overwhelmed by Ponzinibbio's speed and power in a main event that dropped him from the rankings.[35] After a year-long layoff in 2019 due to injuries and scheduling issues, Magny returned in 2020 amid the COVID-19 pandemic, embarking on a three-fight winning streak that reaffirmed his contender pedigree. He edged out ranked welterweight Li Jingliang via unanimous decision at UFC 248 on March 7, using his jab and takedown defense to neutralize the aggressive striker.[36] Follow-up unanimous decision victories over Anthony Rocco Martin at UFC 250 on June 6 and former champion Robbie Lawler at UFC Fight Night 175 on August 29 highlighted Magny's improved grappling and endurance, with the Lawler win particularly notable for its back-and-forth exchanges.[37][38] Over this four-year span, Magny compiled a 7-3 UFC record, marked by victories against three former champions and consistent performances against ranked foes, though losses to grapplers like dos Anjos and strikers like Ponzinibbio revealed areas for growth.[3] His ability to rebound from defeats kept him in the top 15, positioning him as a durable gatekeeper in a stacked division.Recent developments (2021–present)
In 2021, Magny rebounded from a unanimous decision loss to Michael Chiesa in January by defeating Geoff Neal via unanimous decision at UFC on ESPN 24 on May 8.[2] This victory highlighted Magny's endurance, as he outstruck Neal 84-42 over three rounds despite an early deficit. Magny's 2022 campaign featured a split decision win over Max Griffin on March 26 at UFC on ESPN 33, tying Georges St-Pierre's record of 19 UFC welterweight victories.[39] However, he suffered a second-round guillotine choke submission loss to Shavkat Rakhmonov at UFC on ESPN 38 on June 25.[2] Magny then submitted Daniel Rodriguez with a brabo choke in the third round on November 5 at UFC Fight Night 214, surpassing St-Pierre's mark with his 20th welterweight win.[40] The following year brought mixed results, including a first-round arm-triangle submission loss to Gilbert Burns at UFC 283 on January 21 and a unanimous decision defeat to Ian Machado Garry at UFC 292 on August 19.[2] Sandwiched between these was a split decision victory over Philip Rowe at UFC on ABC 5 on June 24, extending his divisional win total to 21.[2] In 2024, Magny secured a third-round TKO win over Mike Malott via punches at UFC 297 on January 20 but endured first-round TKO losses to Michael Morales on August 24 at UFC on ESPN 62 and to Carlos Prates via knockout punch on November 9 at UFC Fight Night 247.[2] These defeats tested his resilience, yet Magny's high-volume striking—averaging 3.41 significant strikes per minute—continued to define his approach.[1] Magny returned strongly in 2025, earning a second-round TKO victory over Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos via punches on August 2 at UFC on ESPN 71, followed by a third-round brabo choke submission of Jake Matthews on September 27 at UFC Fight Night 260, a bout marked by referee controversy when the fight was prematurely stopped before being restarted, leading to Magny's win; Matthews' appeal was denied on October 29.[2][41] These triumphs elevated his UFC welterweight win record to 24, surpassing Matt Brown's 17 and solidifying his status as the division's most victorious fighter.[42] As of November 2025, Magny holds the #22 spot in the welterweight rankings, his adaptability and consistent output sustaining a career spanning over a decade in the octagon.[43]Fighting style
Striking and reach advantage
Neil Magny stands at 6 feet 3 inches tall with an 80-inch reach, making him the tallest fighter in the UFC welterweight division and providing a significant advantage in managing distance against shorter opponents.[3][1] This physical profile allows him to maintain range with extended punches and kicks, frustrating aggressors by keeping them at bay while landing from safety.[44] His lanky frame enables effective use of the jab to probe and control the pace, often setting up follow-up strikes without overcommitting. Magny employs a high-volume striking approach, landing an average of 3.41 significant strikes per minute with 46% accuracy, focusing on accumulation over power to wear down foes over the course of a fight.[3] His style emphasizes the jab as a primary tool for entry and disruption, complemented by leg kicks to target mobility and disrupt rhythm.[44] This methodical output has shone in bouts where he outstruck opponents, such as landing 55 significant strikes to Geoff Neal's 35 in a unanimous decision victory, and 42 to Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos's 20 in another decision win.[3] These performances highlight his ability to leverage reach for consistent volume while minimizing damage taken, absorbing just 2.44 significant strikes per minute with 51% defense.[3] Over his career, Magny's striking has evolved from a more straightforward wrestling-led stand-up to a more nuanced game incorporating feints and counters, refined through dedicated coaching that analyzes opponent reactions to his jab setups. This development has enhanced his adaptability, allowing seamless transitions to the clinch when strikes create openings, drawing on his wrestling foundation for control.[45]Grappling and wrestling
Neil Magny's grappling foundation stems from his high school wrestling experience at Thornwood High School in South Holland, Illinois, where he competed as part of the athletic program alongside football.[19] Although he did not pursue collegiate wrestling at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, where he earned a degree in criminal justice, Magny's amateur background translated effectively into mixed martial arts, emphasizing takedown execution and positional control. In the UFC, he maintains a career average of 2.18 takedowns landed per 15 minutes, reflecting consistent chain wrestling that allows him to dictate fight pace against welterweight opponents.[3] Magny's defensive grappling stands out for its resilience, with a 55% takedown defense rate across his UFC tenure, enabling him to neutralize aggressive wrestlers and keep bouts upright or in favorable positions. This proficiency has been crucial in high-stakes matchups, where he scrambles effectively to avoid prolonged bottom time and counter with transitions. His long reach occasionally facilitates clinch entries that set up defensive breaks or offensive takedowns, blending seamlessly into his overall ground game.[3][46] Offensively, Magny has secured notable submission victories that highlight his opportunistic finishing ability from grappling exchanges. A prime example is his third-round D'Arce choke submission against Jake Matthews at UFC Perth in September 2025, where he reversed an early deficit to lock in the choke from top position, extending his UFC win total to 23. This win underscored his ability to capitalize on fatigue in prolonged grappling scenarios. Earlier in his career, Magny demonstrated similar threat level with submissions like the D'Arce choke over Daniel Rodriguez in 2022, showcasing his affinity for neck attacks during transitions.[47] Magny's use of top control for ground-and-pound has become a reliable path to victory, often stemming from clinch work honed during his U.S. Army service, where military combatives training emphasized close-quarters dominance and physical conditioning. In August 2025, he utilized this approach to finish Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos via second-round TKO with strikes from mount at UFC on ESPN 71, raining down heavy elbows after securing a takedown chain. This method prioritizes wearing down opponents through sustained pressure rather than high-risk submissions, aligning with his endurance-driven style.[48][49]Professional grappling career
Career overview
Neil Magny, leveraging his amateur wrestling foundation from early athletics, transitioned into professional grappling in 2021 to challenge his submission skills in a ruleset free from MMA striking constraints.[50] His engagement in the discipline has been selective and infrequent, treated as a supplementary endeavor alongside his established UFC commitments. Magny incorporates grappling drills into his broader MMA regimen, prioritizing no-gi methodologies to refine techniques derived from his wrestling heritage. This approach underscores his philosophy of expanding upon his foundational athletic base for selective future grappling opportunities.Notable events
Magny made his professional grappling debut at Fury Pro Grappling 3 on December 30, 2021, facing UFC lightweight Joaquim Silva in a submission-only matchup. Silva defeated Magny via guillotine choke in the first round at 2:47.[50] Magny was scheduled to compete at Fury Pro Grappling 9 on April 4, 2024, facing fellow UFC welterweight Miguel Baeza in a submission-only matchup.[51] The bout was ultimately cancelled due to Magny's withdrawal, with Baeza instead competing against replacement opponent Guilherme Neves in the event's no-gi format; Neves secured victory via armbar in the first round at 6:07.[52][53] As of November 19, 2025, no further professional grappling appearances for Magny have been scheduled or completed.[54] This foray into grappling represents an effort to supplement his primary MMA career with specialized submission training.[51]Personal life
Family
Neil Magny was married to Emily Rae Steiner from 2018 until their separation in 2023, following several years of dating that began in the mid-2010s when they were introduced through Steiner's sister.[55][56] The couple's relationship predated Magny's rise to prominence in the UFC, providing a stable foundation during his early professional challenges. Following their separation, they navigated co-parenting amid a custody battle in 2023-2024. During this period, trash talk from fellow UFC fighter Ian Machado Garry was used against Magny in court proceedings, nearly impacting the custody outcome, though Magny expressed no resentment toward the external factors involved.[57] Magny and Steiner welcomed their first son, Liam, in 2020, followed by their second son, Dominic, in 2023. Fatherhood has profoundly motivated Magny's career longevity, offering personal grounding and added drive to compete at a high level despite setbacks.[58][55] He has described the birth of his children as a pivotal life highlight that fuels his commitment to the sport.[56] Magny's family has supported his relocations for MMA training, including stints in Colorado with the Elevation Fight Team, while he maintains connections to his extended Haitian-Dominican relatives.[58] His Haitian and Dominican heritage underscores a deep emphasis on family values that bolsters these dynamics.[59] Balancing the UFC's rigorous travel schedule with family responsibilities remains a key challenge, yet Magny prioritizes his role as a provider and active parent to sustain both spheres.[60]Philanthropy and community involvement
Neil Magny has engaged in charitable efforts, particularly supporting health-related causes and community initiatives through his platform in mixed martial arts. In 2018, following his last-minute replacement for an injured Gunnar Nelson at UFC Fight Night 130, Magny pledged and subsequently donated $15,000 from his fight purse to aid a young girl from Omaha, Nebraska, battling Spinal Muscular Atrophy, a rare genetic disease.[61][62] This act of generosity highlighted his commitment to using his earnings to support families facing medical hardships. Magny has also participated in charity grappling events to raise funds for broader community causes. In 2016, he competed in an exhibition match against MusclePharm CEO Ryan Drexler at the Submit Cancer charity event organized by Fight to Win, aimed at supporting cancer research and awareness.[63][64] These appearances underscore his involvement in leveraging his grappling expertise for philanthropic purposes, often tied to health and wellness initiatives. His efforts reflect a broader dedication to giving back, motivated in part by his family values.[11]Accomplishments and records
UFC achievements
Neil Magny has earned multiple post-fight bonuses throughout his UFC tenure, including the Fight of the Night award for his split decision victory over Kelvin Gastelum at UFC Fight Night 78 in 2015, a bout recognized for its intense back-and-forth action over five rounds.[65] He also secured a Performance of the Night bonus for his third-round submission win against Daniel Rodriguez at UFC Fight Night 214 in 2022, a finish that highlighted his grappling prowess and marked a significant milestone in his career.[66] In addition, he earned a Performance of the Night bonus for his third-round submission victory over Jake Matthews at UFC Fight Night 260 on September 27, 2025.[67] In March 2022, Magny tied Georges St-Pierre's UFC welterweight record of 19 wins with a split decision over Max Griffin at UFC on ESPN 33.[39] Later that year, in November, he surpassed the mark with a submission victory over Rodriguez, reaching 20 welterweight wins. By 2025, Magny had extended his record to 24 UFC welterweight victories, solidifying his place as the division's all-time leader in wins.[68] Magny established himself as a consistent contender in the welterweight division through matchups against top-ranked opponents, including a 2015 submission loss to then-No. 4 Demian Maia at UFC 190, where Maia's elite jiu-jitsu was on full display.[69] He also faced surging top-10 fighter Santiago Ponzinibbio in the 2018 UFC Fight Night 140 main event, a high-stakes clash that ended in a fourth-round knockout defeat for Magny but underscored his willingness to test himself against elite competition. Recognized for his remarkable longevity, Magny has been active in the UFC for over 12 years since his promotional debut in February 2013, accumulating 36 Octagon appearances by late 2025 and earning praise as one of the division's most durable gatekeepers.[3] His sustained presence has contributed to shaping the welterweight landscape, providing measuring-stick bouts for rising talents while maintaining a competitive edge into his late 30s.Statistical records
Neil Magny has established himself as one of the highest-volume strikers in UFC welterweight history, reflecting his endurance and ability to engage in prolonged fights. His striking volume is notably tied to his reach advantage, enabling consistent output over multiple rounds.[3]| Statistic | Value | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Total strikes landed in UFC welterweight history | 2,714 | Most in division history[68] |
| Total strikes landed in UFC history overall | 2,714 | Second-most, behind Max Holloway[70] |
| Decision win rate among active welterweights | 17 out of 24 UFC wins | Highest among active fighters in the division[1] |
| Takedown defense percentage | 55% | Career UFC average[3] |
| Significant strikes absorbed per minute | 2.44 | Career UFC average, highlighting defensive resilience in stand-up exchanges[3] |
Mixed martial arts record
Professional record
Neil Magny's professional mixed martial arts record as of November 8, 2025, stands at 31 wins against 13 losses across 44 bouts.[2] Of those victories, nine were by knockout or technical knockout, five by submission, and 17 by decision; his defeats include four knockouts or technical knockouts, six submissions, and three decisions.[2] Magny compiled a 7-1 record in regional promotions prior to entering the UFC, where he holds a 24-12 mark.[2] The table below details his complete professional fight history in chronological order, from his debut in 2010 to his most recent victory.| Date | Opponent | Result | Method | Round | Time | Event | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 07, 2010 | Nolan Norwood | Win | Submission (Straight Armbar) | 2 | 2:44 | C3 Fights - Slammin Jammin Weekend 5 | |
| Oct 22, 2010 | Nate Pratt | Win | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | C3 Fights - Slammin Jammin Weekend 6 | |
| Nov 06, 2010 | Lawrence Dunning | Win | TKO (Punches) | 2 | 3:09 | Cut Throat MMA - Supremacy | |
| Nov 19, 2010 | Darion Terry | Win | TKO (Punches) | 3 | 2:13 | RTP - Rumble Time Promotions | |
| Apr 09, 2011 | Kevin Nowaczyk | Win | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | Hoosier FC 7 - Validation | |
| May 14, 2011 | Quartius Stitt | Win | Submission (Triangle Choke) | 2 | 0:38 | Combat USA - Illinois State Finals | |
| Jul 21, 2011 | Andrew Trace | Loss | Submission (Guillotine Choke) | 1 | 3:10 | Combat USA - Wisconsin vs. Illinois Championship | |
| Feb 11, 2012 | Daniel Sandmann | Win | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | HFC 10 - Hoosier Fight Club 10 | |
| Feb 23, 2013 | Jon Manley | Win | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | UFC 157 - Rousey vs. Carmouche | UFC debut |
| Aug 03, 2013 | Sergio Moraes | Loss | Submission (Triangle Choke) | 1 | 3:13 | UFC 163 - Aldo vs. Korean Zombie | |
| Nov 06, 2013 | Seth Baczynski | Loss | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | UFC Fight Night 31 - Fight for the Troops 3 | |
| Feb 01, 2014 | Gasan Umalatov | Win | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | UFC 169 - Barao vs. Faber 2 | |
| May 10, 2014 | Tim Means | Win | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | UFC Fight Night 40 - Brown vs. Silva | |
| Jun 28, 2014 | Rodrigo Goiana de Lima | Win | KO (Punches) | 2 | 2:32 | UFC Fight Night 43 - Te Huna vs. Marquardt | |
| Aug 23, 2014 | Alex Garcia | Win | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | UFC Fight Night 49 - Henderson vs. dos Anjos | |
| Oct 25, 2014 | William Macario | Win | TKO (Punches) | 3 | 2:40 | UFC 179 - Aldo vs. Mendes 2 | |
| Feb 14, 2015 | Kiichi Kunimoto | Win | Submission (Rear-Naked Choke) | 3 | 1:22 | UFC Fight Night 60 - Henderson vs. Thatch | Performance of the Night bonus |
| May 16, 2015 | Hyun Gyu Lim | Win | TKO (Punches) | 2 | 1:24 | UFC Fight Night 66 - Edgar vs. Faber | |
| Aug 01, 2015 | Demian Maia | Loss | Submission (Rear-Naked Choke) | 2 | 2:52 | UFC 190 - Rousey vs. Correia | |
| Aug 23, 2015 | Erick Silva | Win | Decision (Split) | 3 | 5:00 | UFC Fight Night 74 - Holloway vs. Oliveira | Fight of the Night bonus |
| Nov 21, 2015 | Kelvin Gastelum | Win | Decision (Split) | 5 | 5:00 | UFC Fight Night 78 - Magny vs. Gastelum | Fight of the Night bonus |
| Mar 19, 2016 | Hector Lombard | Win | TKO (Punches) | 3 | 0:46 | UFC Fight Night 85 - Hunt vs. Mir | Performance of the Night bonus |
| Aug 20, 2016 | Lorenz Larkin | Loss | TKO (Elbows) | 1 | 4:08 | UFC 202 - Diaz vs. McGregor 2 | |
| Dec 30, 2016 | Johny Hendricks | Win | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | UFC 207 - Nunes vs. Rousey | |
| Sep 09, 2017 | Rafael dos Anjos | Loss | Submission (Arm-Triangle Choke) | 1 | 3:43 | UFC 215 - Nunes vs. Shevchenko 2 | |
| Dec 30, 2017 | Carlos Condit | Win | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | UFC 219 - Cyborg vs. Holm | |
| May 27, 2018 | Craig White | Win | KO (Knee and Punches) | 1 | 4:32 | UFC Fight Night 130 - Thompson vs. Till | |
| Nov 17, 2018 | Santiago Ponzinibbio | Loss | KO (Punch) | 4 | 2:36 | UFC Fight Night 140 - Magny vs. Ponzinibbio | |
| Mar 07, 2020 | Jingliang Li | Win | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | UFC 248 - Adesanya vs. Romero | |
| Jun 06, 2020 | Anthony Rocco Martin | Win | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | UFC 250 - Nunes vs. Spencer | |
| Aug 29, 2020 | Robbie Lawler | Win | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | UFC Fight Night 175 - Smith vs. Rakic | Fight of the Night bonus |
| Jan 20, 2021 | Michael Chiesa | Loss | Decision (Unanimous) | 5 | 5:00 | UFC on ESPN 20 - Chiesa vs. Magny | |
| May 08, 2021 | Geoff Neal | Win | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | UFC on ESPN 24 - Rodriguez vs. Waterson | |
| Mar 26, 2022 | Max Griffin | Win | Decision (Split) | 3 | 5:00 | UFC on ESPN 33 - Blaydes vs. Daukaus | |
| Jun 25, 2022 | Shavkat Rakhmonov | Loss | Submission (Guillotine Choke) | 2 | 4:58 | UFC on ESPN 38 - Tsarukyan vs. Gamrot | |
| Nov 05, 2022 | Daniel Rodriguez | Win | Submission (Brabo Choke) | 3 | 3:33 | UFC Fight Night 214 - Rodriguez vs. Lemos | Performance of the Night bonus |
| Jan 21, 2023 | Gilbert Burns | Loss | Submission (Arm-Triangle Choke) | 1 | 4:15 | UFC 283 - Teixeira vs. Hill | |
| Jun 24, 2023 | Philip Rowe | Win | Decision (Split) | 3 | 5:00 | UFC on ABC 5 - Emmett vs. Topuria | |
| Aug 19, 2023 | Ian Garry | Loss | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | UFC 292 - Sterling vs. O'Malley | |
| Jan 20, 2024 | Mike Malott | Win | TKO (Punches) | 3 | 4:45 | UFC 297 - Strickland vs. Du Plessis | |
| Aug 24, 2024 | Michael Morales | Loss | TKO (Punches) | 1 | 4:39 | UFC on ESPN 62 - Cannonier vs. Borralho | |
| Nov 09, 2024 | Carlos Prates | Loss | KO (Punch) | 1 | 4:50 | UFC Fight Night 247 - Magny vs. Prates | |
| Aug 02, 2025 | Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos | Win | TKO (Punches) | 2 | 4:39 | UFC on ESPN 71 - Taira vs. Park | |
| Sep 27, 2025 | Jake Matthews | Win | Submission (Brabo Choke) | 3 | 3:08 | UFC Fight Night 260 - Ulberg vs. Reyes |
Exhibition record
Neil Magny competed in two exhibition bouts during The Ultimate Fighter Season 16, which did not count toward his professional record but were conducted under UFC rules as part of the competition to earn a UFC contract.[71] These fights included an elimination-round victory to enter the TUF house and a semifinal bout, both televised on FX as episodes of the series.[72]| Result | Opponent | Method | Round/Time | Date | Event | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Win | Frank Camacho | Unanimous decision (3 rounds) | 3 rounds, 15:00 | October 1, 2012 | The Ultimate Fighter Season 16 - Elimination Round | Televised exhibition bout; advanced Magny to the TUF house.[73] |
| Loss | Mike Ricci | TKO (elbow and punches) | 1st round, 4:12 | October 8, 2012 | The Ultimate Fighter Season 16 - Semifinal Round | Televised exhibition bout; ended Magny's TUF tournament run.[74] |