UFC pioneer dies aged 60

It’s an emotional day in the mixed martial arts world as we say goodbye to one of the UFC’s pioneers.

The UFC is approaching its 31st anniversary in the business and throughout that time, the promotion has accumulated numerous stars. Fans are often sad to see their favorite fighters bow out of the sport, but the news of a former competitor passing away is much worse.

Art Jimmerson was 60 years old when his death was announced to the world. Jimmerson was well known for competing at the inaugral UFC 1 event, where he sported a single boxing glove on his left hand–ultimately earning him the nickname ‘One Glove’.

Rest in peace to one of the first to ever do it, UFC 1 competitor, Art Jimmerson. pic.twitter.com/4iejXXfiZQ

— UFC (@ufc) May 9, 2024

Before testing himself inside the octagon, Jimmerson was a respected boxer and the National Golden Gloves middleweight champion in 1983. The Missouri native would step into the ring for the final time in late 2002, having won 33 of his 51 bouts inside the squared circle.

On November 12, 1993, on the back of a 15-fight win streak in the ring, Art Jimmerson would forever be stapled in history when he competed at UFC 1.

Related: Never saw UFC 1? Watch it now, FREE! (full event video)

Despite his efforts, he would fall victim to the grappling prowess of Royce Gracie and fall to a submission just 2:18 into the first round. His courage to showcase his skills at the event not only meant the boxing specialist played a huge role in the growth of the UFC, but he also had a strong impact on the entire sport.

Gracie would go on to win the tournament, changing the outlook on combat sports from that day forward.

While this was his one and only fight in the cage, Art Jimmerson would later continue to work with the company. Jimmerson would serve as the head boxing coach at the UFC GYM in Torrance, California.

Watch Jimmerson’s one and only fight under the UFC banner below.