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Donald Cerrone

Donald Cerrone is an American former mixed martial artist and professional bull rider best known for his long career in the UFC, where he competed from 2011 to 2022.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Donald Cerrone is an American former mixed martial artist and professional bull rider best known for his long career in the UFC, where he competed from 2011 to 2022. Nicknamed "Cowboy," he fought primarily at lightweight and welterweight and held several UFC records, including most wins at one point in promotion history.

Early life and background

Donald Cerrone was born in Denver, Colorado, on March 29, 1983. Before becoming known for MMA, he was also involved in professional bull riding.

Mixed martial arts career

Cerrone began his professional MMA career in 2006 and joined the UFC in 2011. He became one of the promotion's most active fighters and competed in multiple divisions.

Fighting style and reputation

Cerrone was widely recognized for his striking, submission game, and willingness to accept fights on short notice. He built a reputation as an active, durable, fan-friendly fighter.

Records and achievements

During his UFC career, Cerrone was associated with several promotional records, including most wins and most finishes at different points in time. He also earned numerous post-fight bonuses.

Retirement

Cerrone announced his retirement after his loss to Jim Miller in July 2022. His final UFC bout marked the end of a long and high-profile career.

Key facts

  • Cerrone competed professionally in mixed martial arts and also had a background in professional bull riding.
  • He made his UFC debut in 2011 and retired after his July 2, 2022 loss to Jim Miller.
  • He was known for taking frequent fights, including many on short notice.
  • He held or shared several UFC records, including most wins, most finishes, and most post-fight bonuses at various points.
  • His nickname "Cowboy" is associated with his Western-style clothing and persona.
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Canadian context

Donald Cerrone has been a notable opponent for Canadian MMA fans following the UFC, but he has no major Canada-specific biographical connection in the provided sources.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Donald Cerrone?
Donald Cerrone is an American former mixed martial artist best known for his UFC career, where he competed from 2011 to 2022.
What is Donald Cerrone's nickname?
His nickname is "Cowboy."
What weight classes did Donald Cerrone fight in?
He competed mainly at lightweight and welterweight.
When did Donald Cerrone retire?
He retired after his loss to Jim Miller on July 2, 2022.
What records is Donald Cerrone known for?
He has been associated with UFC records for wins, finishes, and post-fight bonuses at various points in his career.

References

  1. ESPN — https://www.espn.com/mma/fighter/bio?id=2479918
    Supports: Birth date, nationality, height, nickname, stance, team, weight class, reach, and retirement context.
  2. UFC — https://www.ufc.com/athlete/donald-cerrone
    Supports: Career summary, record-related achievements, divisions fought in, fight style notes, and nickname origin.
  3. FightMatrix — https://www.fightmatrix.com/fighter-profile/Donald%20Cerrone/27006/
    Supports: UFC record, debut date, last UFC fight date, ranking history, and win streak information.
  4. Tapology — https://www.tapology.com/fightcenter/fighters/donald-cerrone-cowboy
    Supports: Full name, nickname, birth date, height, reach, fighting out location, coach, and career record details.
  5. ESPN — https://www.espn.com/mma/ufc/story/_/id/28029101/what-need-know-donald-cowboy-cerrone
    Supports: UFC records, fighting frequency, and career context.