Chad Mendes is a name synonymous with skill and determination in the world of mixed martial arts (MMA). Before transitioning to MMA, Mendes showcased his wrestling prowess at California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) in San Luis Obispo, California. He finished his career with an impressive overall record of 64-14 and twice earned NCAA All-American honors, first at 125 pounds as a sophomore and later at 141 pounds as a senior.
Cal Poly Campus
Early Career and WEC
Mendes made significant strides early in his career. On April 24, 2010, at WEC 48, Mendes faced Anthony Morrison, stepping in as a replacement for the injured Mackens Semerzier. Later, at WEC 52 on November 11, 2010, Mendes defeated Javier Vazquez via unanimous decision, demonstrating his improved striking skills that complemented his superior wrestling abilities.
In October 28, 2010, World Extreme Cagefighting merged with the Ultimate Fighting Championship. Following UFC 129, Dana White mentioned in the post-fight press conference that Mendes may have a shot at the title against UFC featherweight champion José Aldo.
UFC Career
Mendes has had a dynamic career in the UFC, marked by significant fights and memorable moments. A rescheduled bout with Guida took place on August 31, 2013 at UFC 164. After a close first and second round, Mendes finished Guida via TKO by punches in the third round and became the first man to ever finish Guida by strikes.
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A rematch with José Aldo was expected to take place on August 2, 2014, as the event headliner at UFC 176 for the UFC Featherweight Championship. However, in early July, Aldo pulled out of the bout with an injury. The rematch with Aldo was subsequently rescheduled and took place on October 25, 2014, at UFC 179. He became the first man to knock down Aldo dropping him with a left hand in the first round.
José Aldo was expected to face Conor McGregor on July 11, 2015 at UFC 189 for the undisputed UFC Featherweight Championship. However, in the days leading up to the fight, Aldo pulled out of the bout because of a rib injury he sustained in training.
UFC 189: Mendes vs McGregor - Fighter Picks
Conor McGregor vs Chad Mendes
Notable UFC Fights
- UFC 142: Aldo vs. Mendes: Mendes faced José Aldo, in a highly anticipated featherweight title fight.
- UFC 179: Aldo vs. Mendes 2: A rematch against José Aldo for the UFC Featherweight Championship.
- UFC 189: Mendes vs. McGregor: Mendes stepped in to fight Conor McGregor for the interim belt.
Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC)
Mendes returned from retirement to venture into bare-knuckle fighting. On April 29, 2023, Mendes faced Eddie Alvarez at BKFC 41 and lost by split decision. He announced his retirement from combat sports after the bout.
Eddie Alvarez vs Chad Mendes
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Suspension
On June 10, 2016, the UFC announced that Mendes had been informed of a potential doping violation stemming from an out-of-competition test conducted by USADA. Mendes responded, "I didn't do my homework and that was a big mistake." Mendes was handed a two-year suspension from USADA for testing positive for PED.
Nickname
Mendes' nickname, "Money", is shortened from his initial nickname, "Money Shot", the latter of which was suggested by training partner Urijah Faber. When asked how he got the nickname, Mendes stated that during his early days of MMA training right after graduating college, he had no knowledge of stand-up fighting, and one time, when he went for a takedown after taking a punch from one his training partners, they would claim that his "shot is money", hence the nickname stuck.
Legal Issues
Mendes was charged with battery for his alleged involvement in a bar fight on July 29, 2012 in his hometown of Hanford, California.
Awards and Achievements
Mendes has received several accolades throughout his career:
- Knockout of the Night (One time)
- Fight of the Night (Two times)
- Performance of the Night (Two times)
- 2014: Ranked #2 Fight of the Year
- 2014 Fight of the Year
- October Fight of the Month
- Fight of the Year (2023) (vs. Eddie Alvarez)
These awards reflect his exciting fighting style and the memorable battles he has been a part of.
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Chad Mendes
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