Jump to content

Tom Watson (fighter): Difference between revisions

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Browse history interactively
← Previous edit
Content deleted Content added
VisualWikitext
KolbertBot (talk | contribs)
Bots
1,166,042 edits
m Bot: HTTP→HTTPS (v485)
Removed unsupported
 
(43 intermediate revisions by 27 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
{{short description|English mixed martial arts fighter}}
{{other people|Thomas Watson}}
{{other people|Thomas Watson}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=February 2014}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=February 2014}}
Line 16: Line 17:
| death_cause =
| death_cause =
| residence =
| residence =
| nationality = [[English people|English]]
| height = {{height|ft=6|in=1}}<ref name=UFN73stats>{{cite web|url=http://www.ufc.com/event/ufc-fight-night-nashville-2015/printFightCard|title=Fight Card - UFC Fight Night Teixeira vs. Saint Preux|publisher=UFC.com|accessdate=9 August 2015}}</ref>
| height = {{height|ft=6|in=1}}<ref name=UFN73stats>{{cite web|url=http://www.ufc.com/event/ufc-fight-night-nashville-2015/printFightCard|title=Fight Card - UFC Fight Night Teixeira vs. Saint Preux|publisher=UFC.com|accessdate=9 August 2015}}</ref>
| weight = {{convert|186|lb|kg st|abbr=on}}
| weight = {{convert|186|lb|kg st|abbr=on}}
| weight_class = [[Middleweight (MMA)|Middleweight]]
| weight_class = [[Middleweight (MMA)|Middleweight]]
| reach = {{convert|73.0|in|cm|abbr=on}}<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ufc.com/event/ufn-bangor-maine-fs1/printFightCard|title=Fight Card - UFC Fight Night Bader vs. Saint Preux|publisher=UFC.com|accessdate=17 August 2014}}</ref>
| reach = {{convert|73.0|in|cm|abbr=on}}<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ufc.com/event/ufn-bangor-maine-fs1/printFightCard|title=Fight Card - UFC Fight Night Bader vs. Saint Preux|publisher=UFC.com|accessdate=17 August 2014}}</ref>
| rank =
| style = [[Muay Thai]], [[Kickboxing]], [[Boxing]], [[Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu]], [[Kyokushin Karate]], [[Wing Chun]], [[Savate]]
| rank = Purple belt in [[Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu]]<ref name=UFCprofile>{{cite web|url=http://www.ufc.com/fighter/Tom-Watson|title=Tom Watson - Official UFC Fighter Profile|publisher=UFC.com|accessdate=8 August 2015}}</ref> <br> Black prajied in [[Muay Thai]]{{citation needed|date=August 2015}} <br> Orange belt in [[Kyokushin Karate]]<ref name=UFCprofile /> <br> Green belt in Lau Gar [[Kung Fu]]<ref name=UFCprofile /> <br> Black belt with green stripe in [[Wing Chun]]<ref name=UFCprofile /> <br> Silver 2 glove in [[Savate]]<ref name=UFCprofile />
| team = [[Jaco Hybrid Training Center]] (Blackzilians)
| team = [[Jaco Hybrid Training Center]] (Blackzilians)
| years_active = 2006-2015
| years_active = 2006-2015
Line 38: Line 37:
| updated =
| updated =
}}
}}
'''Tom "Kong" Watson''' (born 13 July 1982) is an English [[mixed martial arts|mixed martial artist]] currently competing in the [[Middleweight (MMA)|Middleweight]] division. Watson most recently competed in the [[Ultimate Fighting Championship|UFC]]. A professional competitor since 2006, he is the former [[BAMMA#World Title history|BAMMA Middleweight Champion]], the former [[UCMMA|UCMMA Middleweight Champion]], and has also competed for [[Cage Rage Championships|Cage Rage]] and the [[Maximum Fighting Championship|MFC]].
'''Tom''' '''Watson''' (born 13 July 1982) is an English [[mixed martial arts|mixed martial artist]] currently competing in the [[Welterweight (MMA)|welterweight]] division of [[Cage Warriors]]. A professional competitor since 2006, he is the former [[BAMMA#World Title history|BAMMA Middleweight Champion]], the former [[UCMMA|UCMMA Middleweight Champion]], and has also competed for the [[Ultimate Fighting Championship|UFC]], [[Cage Rage Championships|Cage Rage]] and the [[Maximum Fighting Championship|MFC]].


==Background==
==Background==
Watson began training when he was 16 years old and has an extensive [[boxing]] background, winning two awards, Amateur Boxing Standout 2006, a three-time ABA Southern Counties Champion, and Full Contact Unlicensed Boxing Champion.<ref name=UFCprofile /> Watson’s nickname comes from his famous ring walks, featuring Watson wearing a gorilla mask.<ref>http://sport.bt.com/more-sport-hub/ufc/ufc-fighter-profile-tom-kong-watson-S11363815117369</ref>
Watson began training when he was 16 years old and has an extensive [[boxing]] background, winning two awards, Amateur Boxing Standout 2006, a three-time ABA Southern Counties Champion, and Full Contact Unlicensed Boxing Champion.<ref name=UFCprofile>{{cite web|url=http://www.ufc.com/fighter/Tom-Watson|title=Tom Watson - Official UFC Fighter Profile|publisher=UFC.com|accessdate=8 August 2015}}</ref> Watson's nickname comes from his famous ring walks, featuring Watson wearing a gorilla mask.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://sport.bt.com/more-sport-hub/ufc/ufc-fighter-profile-tom-kong-watson-S11363815117369|title=BT Sport &#124; the Heart of Sport &#124; BT Sport}}</ref>

Watson has also competed in [[catch wrestling]] at the [[Snake Pit World Championships]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Whittle |first=Jay |date=2019-10-30 |title=Wigan snakepit to host World Championships - with UFC fighters and Olympian taking part |url=https://www.wigantoday.net/sport/other-sport/wigan-snakepit-to-host-world-championships-with-ufc-fighters-and-olympian-taking-part-923027 |access-date=2024-12-01 |website=[[Wigan Today]] |language=en}}</ref>


==Mixed martial arts career==
==Mixed martial arts career==


===Cage Rage and early career===
===Cage Rage and early career===
Watson held a 1-0-1 amateur record before turning professional in 1991. He won his first two fights and was then given the chance to fight in the UK's top MMA promotion, [[Cage Rage Championships|Cage Rage]]. His first fight was against [[Daijiro Matsui]] in February 2007 at Cage Rage 20, and he lost via an [[armbar]] in the first round. He returned to the cage a month later and impressively defeated Dorlan O'Malley via KO after a slam.
Watson held a 1-0-1 amateur record before turning professional in 2006. He won his first two fights and was then given the chance to fight in the UK's top MMA promotion, [[Cage Rage Championships|Cage Rage]]. His first fight was against [[Daijiro Matsui]] in February 2007 at Cage Rage 20, and he lost via an [[armbar]] in the first round. He returned to the cage a month later and impressively defeated Dorlan O'Malley via KO after a slam.{{citation needed|date=April 2021}}


After this, he was given another chance against a higher profile opponent. He took on UFC veteran Xavier Foupa-Pokam at ''CageRage 21: Judgement Day'' in April, 2007, but was submitted again. He fought a further two times that year, and recorded a win and a loss. In 2008, he began to climb the ladder again by beating Pierre Guillet and John Phillips, but Cage Rage went into liquidation and he then went to [[Ultimate Challenge MMA]].
After this, he was given another chance against a higher profile opponent. He took on UFC veteran Xavier Foupa-Pokam at ''CageRage 21: Judgement Day'' in April, 2007, but was submitted again. He fought a further two times that year, and recorded a win and a loss. In 2008, he began to climb the ladder again by beating Pierre Guillet and [[John Phillips (fighter)|John Phillips]], but Cage Rage went into liquidation and he then went to [[Ultimate Challenge MMA]].{{citation needed|date=April 2021}}


===Ultimate Challenge MMA===
===Ultimate Challenge MMA===
Watson's first Ultimate Challenge MMA bout came against Daniel Cubitt at ''Ultimate Challenge UK: Bad Breed'' in December 2008. He won the fight by knocking his opponent out less than two minutes into the first round to win the inaugural Ultimate Challenge UK title. He returned at ''Ultimate Challenge UK: Dynamite'' in October 2009 to take on Denniston Sutherland, and defeated him via split decision.
Watson's first Ultimate Challenge MMA bout came against Daniel Cubitt at ''Ultimate Challenge UK: Bad Breed'' in December 2008. He won the fight by knocking his opponent out less than two minutes into the first round to win the inaugural Ultimate Challenge UK title. He returned to ''Ultimate Challenge UK: Dynamite'' in October 2009 to take on Denniston Sutherland, and defeated him via split decision.{{citation needed|date=April 2021}}


===Maximum Fighting Championship===
===Maximum Fighting Championship===
On 10 January 2010, Watson signed a three fight deal with the [[Maximum Fighting Championship]], a Canadian promotion.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aroundtheoctagon.com/?p=3077 |title=Maximum Fighting Championship signs Tom ‘Kong’ Watson |publisher=Aroundtheoctagon.com |date=2010-01-13 |accessdate=2011-07-18}}</ref> His first fight was on 26 February 2010, where he took on Travis Galbraith on ''[[MFC 24|MFC 24: Heat XC]]''. In the second minute of the first round, Kong knocked his opponent out with a vicious right head kick. This won him knockout of the night and put him at the top of the list for knockout of the year.
On 10 January 2010, Watson signed a three-fight deal with the [[Maximum Fighting Championship]], a Canadian promotion.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aroundtheoctagon.com/?p=3077 |title=Maximum Fighting Championship signs Tom 'Kong' Watson |publisher=Aroundtheoctagon.com |date=2010-01-13 |accessdate=2011-07-18}}</ref> His first fight was on 26 February 2010, where he took on Travis Galbraith on ''[[MFC 24|MFC 24: Heat XC]]''. In the second minute of the first round, Kong knocked his opponent out with a vicious right head kick. This won him knockout of the night and put him at the top of the list for knockout of the year.{{citation needed|date=April 2021}}


His second fight for the Canadian promotion took place on the main card of [[MFC 26]] card against [[Jesse Taylor]].<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20100729210157/http://www.maximumfighting.com:80/articles/2010/jul/26.htm ]</ref> Watson lost via unanimous decision (30-26, 30-26, 30-26) after being deducted a point for repeatedly grabbing the ropes.
His second fight for the Canadian promotion took place on the main card of [[MFC 26]] card against [[Jesse Taylor]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.maximumfighting.com/articles/2010/jul/26.htm |title=Maximum Fighting Championship |website=www.maximumfighting.com |access-date=17 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100729210157/http://www.maximumfighting.com/articles/2010/jul/26.htm |archive-date=29 July 2010 |url-status=dead}}</ref> Watson lost via unanimous decision (30-26, 30–26, 30-26) after being deducted a point for repeatedly grabbing the ropes.{{citation needed|date=April 2021}}


===BAMMA===
===BAMMA===
On 27 June 2009, Watson fought at the [[BAMMA|British Association of Mixed Martial Arts]]' first event, ''[[BAMMA 1|BAMMA 1: The Fighting Premiership]]'', after a hard fought battle, Watson defeated [[John Maguire (fighter)|John Maguire]] via TKO at 2:47 of round 3. It was confirmed that Maguire had broken his arm during the fight after a takedown.
On 27 June 2009, Watson fought at the [[BAMMA|British Association of Mixed Martial Arts]]' first event, ''[[BAMMA 1|BAMMA 1: The Fighting Premiership]]. A''fter a hard-fought battle, Watson defeated [[John Maguire (fighter)|John Maguire]] via TKO at 2:47 in round 3. It was confirmed that Maguire had broken his arm during the fight after a takedown.


He was then scheduled to fight [[Celebrity Big Brother 2010 (UK)|Celebrity Big Brother]] winner [[Alex Reid (MMA)|Alex Reid]] for the vacant Middleweight Championship at ''[[BAMMA 3]]'' in May 2010.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bamma.net/?q=node/5 |title=Alex Reid vs Tom Watson |publisher=Bamma.net |date= |accessdate=2011-07-18}}</ref> However, Reid injured his knee while filming his documentary TV series ''Alex Reid: The Fight of His Life'' and was forced to pull out of the fight. This angered Watson, who claimed Reid was disrespecting him.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://bleacherreport.com/articles/379797-alex-reid-pulls-out-of-controversial-title-fight-with-tom-watson |title=Alex Reid Pulls Out of Controversial Title Fight with Tom Watson |publisher=Bleacherreport.com |date= |accessdate=2011-07-18}}</ref> Watson also called him a "clown" and said that it was likely Reid pulled out to avoid an embarrassing defeat.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.unrealitytv.co.uk/celebrity-big-brother/cage-fighter-tom-%E2%80%9Ckong%E2%80%9D-watson-calls-alex-reid-a-clown/ |title=Cage fighter Tom "Kong" Watson calls Alex Reid ‘a clown’ |publisher=Unrealitytv.co.uk |date=2010-03-03 |accessdate=2011-07-18}}</ref> Reid was then replaced by UFC and IFL veteran [[Matt Horwich]]. After miraculously freeing himself from a rear-naked choke in the first round, Watson went on to dominate the fight with his superior striking and won via unanimous decision (48-47, 49-47, 49-46) to become the first BAMMA Middleweight Champion.<ref>{{cite web|author=BAMMA 3 - Full Review |url=http://blogs.mirror.co.uk/wrestling-wwe-ufc-mma/2010/05/bamma-3---full-review.html |title=BAMMA 3 - Full Review |publisher=Blogs.mirror.co.uk |date= |accessdate=2011-07-18}}</ref>
He was then scheduled to fight [[Celebrity Big Brother 2010 (UK)|Celebrity Big Brother]] winner [[Alex Reid (MMA)|Alex Reid]] for the vacant Middleweight Championship at ''[[BAMMA 3]]'' in May 2010.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bamma.net/?q=node/5 |title=Alex Reid vs Tom Watson |publisher=Bamma.net |date= |accessdate=2011-07-18}}</ref> However, Reid injured his knee while filming his documentary TV series ''Alex Reid: The Fight of His Life'' and was forced to pull out of the fight. This angered Watson, who claimed Reid was disrespecting him.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://bleacherreport.com/articles/379797-alex-reid-pulls-out-of-controversial-title-fight-with-tom-watson |title=Alex Reid Pulls Out of Controversial Title Fight with Tom Watson |publisher=Bleacherreport.com |date= |accessdate=2011-07-18}}</ref> Watson also called him a "clown" and said that it was likely Reid pulled out to avoid an embarrassing defeat.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.unrealitytv.co.uk/celebrity-big-brother/cage-fighter-tom-%E2%80%9Ckong%E2%80%9D-watson-calls-alex-reid-a-clown/ |title=Cage fighter Tom "Kong" Watson calls Alex Reid 'a clown' |publisher=Unrealitytv.co.uk |date=2010-03-03 |accessdate=2011-07-18}}</ref> Reid was then replaced by UFC and IFL veteran [[Matt Horwich]]. After miraculously freeing himself from a rear-naked choke in the first round, Watson went on to dominate the fight with his superior striking and won via unanimous decision (48-47, 49–47, 49-46) to become the first BAMMA Middleweight Champion.<ref>{{cite web |author=BAMMA 3 - Full Review |url=http://blogs.mirror.co.uk/wrestling-wwe-ufc-mma/2010/05/bamma-3---full-review.html |title=BAMMA 3 - Full Review |publisher=Blogs.mirror.co.uk |date= |accessdate=2011-07-18 |archive-date=2 September 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120902101255/http://blogs.mirror.co.uk/wrestling-wwe-ufc-mma/2010/05/bamma-3---full-review.html |url-status=dead }}</ref>


Initially, Watson maintained that he did not want to waste any more time training for and fighting such a low-level opponent as Reid<ref name="mirror1">{{cite web|url=http://blogs.mirror.co.uk/wrestling-wwe-ufc-mma/uk-news/ |title=BAMMA: Reid v Watson WILL happen, but not at BAMMA 3 |publisher=Blogs.mirror.co.uk |date=2011-04-02 |accessdate=2011-07-18}}</ref> but the Reid vs. Watson fight was rescheduled for ''[[BAMMA 4]]'' on 25 September 2010.<ref name="mirror1"/> Watson won by unanimous decision, as the judges scored the fight 49-46 49-46 49-47.<ref>http://www.bamma.net/index.php/schedule/event-results/bamma-4.html</ref>
Initially, Watson maintained that he did not want to waste any more time training for and fighting such a low-level opponent as Reid<ref name="mirror1">{{cite web |url=http://blogs.mirror.co.uk/wrestling-wwe-ufc-mma/uk-news/ |title=BAMMA: Reid v Watson WILL happen, but not at BAMMA 3 |publisher=Blogs.mirror.co.uk |date=2011-04-02 |accessdate=2011-07-18 |archive-date=11 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111011184826/http://blogs.mirror.co.uk/wrestling-wwe-ufc-mma/uk-news/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> but the Reid vs. Watson fight was rescheduled for ''[[BAMMA 4]]'' on 25 September 2010.<ref name="mirror1"/> Watson won by unanimous decision, as the judges scored the fight 49-46 49-46 49–47.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bamma.net/index.php/schedule/event-results/bamma-4.html |title=BAMMA 4 Results |accessdate=2010-09-30 |url-status=dead |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20101001094953/http://www.bamma.net/index.php/schedule/event-results/bamma-4.html |archivedate=1 October 2010 |df=dmy-all }}</ref>


On 21 May 2011, he faced former [[Elite Xtreme Combat#EliteXC Champions|EliteXC Middleweight Champion]] [[Murilo Rua]] at [[Wembley Arena]] in London, England, defeating the PRIDE FC veteran by KO due to head kick followed up by punches in the third round, and defending his BAMMA Middleweight Title in the process.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mmafighting.com/2011/05/22/bamma-6-results-tom-watson-retires-murilo-ninja-rua/ |title=BAMMA 6 Results: Tom Watson Retires Murilo 'Ninja' Rua |publisher=Mmafighting.com |date= |accessdate=2011-07-18}}</ref>
On 21 May 2011, he faced former [[Elite Xtreme Combat#EliteXC Champions|EliteXC Middleweight Champion]] [[Murilo Rua]] at [[Wembley Arena]] in London, England, defeating the PRIDE FC veteran by KO due to head kick followed up by punches in the third round, and defending his BAMMA Middleweight Title in the process.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mmafighting.com/2011/05/22/bamma-6-results-tom-watson-retires-murilo-ninja-rua/ |title=BAMMA 6 Results: Tom Watson Retires Murilo 'Ninja' Rua |publisher=Mmafighting.com |date= 22 May 2011|accessdate=2011-07-18}}</ref>


Watson was set to fight former UFC [[Welterweight (MMA)|Welterweight]] contender and current BAMMA Middleweight, [[Frank Trigg]], for Kong's BAMMA Middleweight Championship. However, Tom has suffered a back injury and was replaced by [[Jim Wallhead]].
Watson was set to fight former UFC [[Welterweight (MMA)|Welterweight]] contender and current BAMMA Middleweight, [[Frank Trigg]], for Kong's BAMMA Middleweight Championship. However, Tom suffered a back injury and was replaced by [[Jim Wallhead]].


Watson defended his title at [[BAMMA 9]] against BAMMA British Middleweight Champion Jack Marshman, winning via TKO in the second round.<ref>{{ cite web| url=https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/other-sports/mma/serving-paratrooper-jack-marshman-gets-679566 | title=Serving paratrooper Jack Marshman gets BAMMA world title shot | last=Head | first=Simon | publisher= mirror.co.uk | date=9 February 2012| accessdate=26 October 2013}}</ref>
Watson defended his title at [[BAMMA 9]] against BAMMA British Middleweight Champion Jack Marshman, winning via TKO in the second round.<ref>{{ cite web| url=https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/other-sports/mma/serving-paratrooper-jack-marshman-gets-679566 | title=Serving paratrooper Jack Marshman gets BAMMA world title shot | last=Head | first=Simon | publisher= mirror.co.uk | date=9 February 2012| accessdate=26 October 2013}}</ref>


===Ultimate Fighting Championship===
===Ultimate Fighting Championship===
After successfully defending his BAMMA Middleweight Championship title three times, Watson signed a contract with the UFC in July 2012.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/ufc/sport/story/158989.html |title=Brits Watson and Manuwa heading to the UFC |publisher=ESPN |accessdate=2012-07-05}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|author=YourMMA.tv |url=http://www.yourmma.tv/news/details.asp/id/2246/tom-watson-signs-ufc-contract.htm |title=Tom Watson Joins British Legion In UFC |publisher=YourMMA.tv |date= |accessdate=2012-07-05}}</ref>
After successfully defending his BAMMA Middleweight Championship title three times, Watson signed a contract with the UFC in July 2012.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/ufc/sport/story/158989.html |title=Brits Watson and Manuwa heading to the UFC |publisher=ESPN |accessdate=2012-07-05}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |author=YourMMA.tv |url=http://www.yourmma.tv/news/details.asp/id/2246/tom-watson-signs-ufc-contract.htm |title=Tom Watson Joins British Legion In UFC |publisher=YourMMA.tv |accessdate=2012-07-05 |url-status=usurped |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120708113256/http://www.yourmma.tv/news/details.asp/id/2246/tom-watson-signs-ufc-contract.htm |archivedate=8 July 2012 |df=dmy-all }}</ref>


In his debut, Watson fought [[Brad Tavares]] on 29 September 2012 at [[UFC on Fuel TV 5]].<ref>{{cite web|title=UFC: Nottingham Adds Tom ‘Kong’ Watson vs. Brad Tavares |url=http://www.mmaweekly.com/ufc-nottingham-adds-tom-kong-watson-vs-brad-tavares-john-maguire-vs-john-hathaway|publisher=mmaweekly.com|accessdate=5 July 2012}}</ref> He lost the fight via split decision.
In his debut, Watson fought [[Brad Tavares]] on 29 September 2012 at [[UFC on Fuel TV 5]].<ref>{{cite web|title=UFC: Nottingham Adds Tom 'Kong' Watson vs. Brad Tavares |date=5 July 2012 |url=http://www.mmaweekly.com/ufc-nottingham-adds-tom-kong-watson-vs-brad-tavares-john-maguire-vs-john-hathaway|publisher=mmaweekly.com|accessdate=5 July 2012}}</ref> He lost the fight via split decision.


Watson next faced undefeated [[Stanislav Nedkov]] on 16 February 2013 at [[2013 in UFC#UFC on Fuel TV: Barao vs. McDonald|UFC on Fuel TV: Barao vs. McDonald]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.mmajunkie.com/news/2012/12/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-adds-tom-watson-vs-stanislav-nedkov|title=UFC on FUEL TV 7 adds Tom Watson vs. Stanislav Nedkov|publisher=mmajunkie.com|date=16 December 2012}}</ref> He won the back-and-forth fight via TKO in the second round. Both participants earned ''Fight of the Night'' honors for their performance, while Watson also earned a ''Knockout of the Night'' bonus.
Watson next faced undefeated [[Stanislav Nedkov]] on 16 February 2013 at [[UFC on Fuel TV: Barão vs. McDonald]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.mmajunkie.com/news/2012/12/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-adds-tom-watson-vs-stanislav-nedkov|title=UFC on FUEL TV 7 adds Tom Watson vs. Stanislav Nedkov|publisher=mmajunkie.com|date=16 December 2012}}</ref> He won the back-and-forth fight via TKO in the second round. Both participants earned ''Fight of the Night'' honors for their performance, while Watson also earned a ''Knockout of the Night'' bonus.


For his third fight with the promotion, Watson faced [[Thales Leites]] on 3 August 2013 at [[UFC 163]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://themmareport.com/2013/05/thales-leites-vs-tom-watson-added-to-ufc-163/|title=Thales Leites vs. Tom Watson added to UFC 163|publisher=themmareport.com|date=30 May 2013}}</ref> He lost the fight via unanimous decision.
For his third fight with the promotion, Watson faced [[Thales Leites]] on 3 August 2013 at [[UFC 163]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://themmareport.com/2013/05/thales-leites-vs-tom-watson-added-to-ufc-163/|title=Thales Leites vs. Tom Watson added to UFC 163|publisher=themmareport.com|date=30 May 2013}}</ref> He lost the fight via unanimous decision.


Watson was expected to face [[Alessio Sakara]] on 26 October 2013 at [[UFC Fight Night: Machida vs. Munoz]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.yourmma.tv/news/details.asp/id/2910/tom-watson-vs-alessio-sakara-ufc-manchester.htm|title=Watson Draws Sakara In UFC Manchester Stand Up Battle |publisher=YourMMA.tv|date=21 August 2013}}</ref> However, he was forced out of the bout with an injury and was replaced by [[Magnus Cedenblad]].<ref>[http://www.mmajunkie.com/news/2013/09/tom-watson-out-magnus-cedenblad-meets-alessio-sakara-at-ufc-fight-night-31 Tom Watson out, Magnus Cedenblad meets Alessio Sakara at UFC Fight Night 30 | MMAjunkie<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
Watson was expected to face [[Alessio Sakara]] on 26 October 2013 at [[UFC Fight Night: Machida vs. Munoz]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.yourmma.tv/news/details.asp/id/2910/tom-watson-vs-alessio-sakara-ufc-manchester.htm|title=Watson Draws Sakara In UFC Manchester Stand Up Battle|publisher=YourMMA.tv|date=21 August 2013|url-status=usurped|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130821222325/http://www.yourmma.tv/news/details.asp/id/2910/tom-watson-vs-alessio-sakara-ufc-manchester.htm|archivedate=21 August 2013|df=dmy-all}}</ref> However, he was forced out of the bout with an injury and was replaced by [[Magnus Cedenblad]].<ref>[http://www.mmajunkie.com/news/2013/09/tom-watson-out-magnus-cedenblad-meets-alessio-sakara-at-ufc-fight-night-31 Tom Watson out, Magnus Cedenblad meets Alessio Sakara at UFC Fight Night 30 | MMAjunkie<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>


Watson fought [[Nick Catone]] on 1 February 2014 at [[UFC 169]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2013/12/nick-catone-vs-tom-watson-booked-for-ufc-169-on-super-bowl-weekend/|title=Nick Catone vs. Tom Watson booked for UFC 169 on Super Bowl weekend|publisher=MMAJunkie.com|author=Matt Erickson|date=5 December 2013|accessdate=5 December 2013}}</ref> He lost the fight via split decision.
Watson fought [[Nick Catone]] on 1 February 2014 at [[UFC 169]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2013/12/nick-catone-vs-tom-watson-booked-for-ufc-169-on-super-bowl-weekend/|title=Nick Catone vs. Tom Watson booked for UFC 169 on Super Bowl weekend|publisher=MMAJunkie.com|author=Matt Erickson|date=5 December 2013|accessdate=5 December 2013}}</ref> He lost the fight via split decision.
Line 90: Line 91:
Watson faced [[Chris Camozzi]] on 8 August 2015 at [[UFC Fight Night 73]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2015/06/chris-camozzi-vs-tom-watson-added-to-ufc-fight-night-73-in-nashville|title=Chris Camozzi vs. Tom Watson added to UFC Fight Night 73 in Nashville
Watson faced [[Chris Camozzi]] on 8 August 2015 at [[UFC Fight Night 73]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2015/06/chris-camozzi-vs-tom-watson-added-to-ufc-fight-night-73-in-nashville|title=Chris Camozzi vs. Tom Watson added to UFC Fight Night 73 in Nashville
|publisher=mmajunkie.com|author=Staff|accessdate=2015-06-15|date=2015-06-15}}</ref> He lost the fight by unanimous decision and was subsequently released from the promotion.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2015/08/ufc-fight-night-73-results-chris-camozzi-takes-unanimous-decision-over-tom-watson|title=UFC Fight Night 73 results: Chris Camozzi takes unanimous decision over Tom Watson|publisher=mmajunkie.com|author=Ben Fowlkes|date=2015-08-08|accessdate=2015-08-08}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bloodyelbow.com/2015/9/1/9242713/report-dan-miller-darrell-montague-among-13-fighters-released-from-ufc-mma-news|title=Report: Dan Miller, Darrell Montague among 13 fighters released from UFC|publisher=bloodyelbow.com|author=Mookie Alexander|date=2015-09-01|accessdate=2015-09-01}}</ref>
|publisher=mmajunkie.com|author=Staff|accessdate=2015-06-15|date=2015-06-15}}</ref> He lost the fight by unanimous decision and was subsequently released from the promotion.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2015/08/ufc-fight-night-73-results-chris-camozzi-takes-unanimous-decision-over-tom-watson|title=UFC Fight Night 73 results: Chris Camozzi takes unanimous decision over Tom Watson|publisher=mmajunkie.com|author=Ben Fowlkes|date=2015-08-08|accessdate=2015-08-08}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bloodyelbow.com/2015/9/1/9242713/report-dan-miller-darrell-montague-among-13-fighters-released-from-ufc-mma-news|title=Report: Dan Miller, Darrell Montague among 13 fighters released from UFC|publisher=bloodyelbow.com|author=Mookie Alexander|date=2015-09-01|accessdate=2015-09-01}}</ref>

===Return to BAMMA===
On 25 July 2018 it was announced that after a three-year hiatus from fighting, Watson had signed a multi-fight contract with BAMMA.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2018/7/25/17611306/tom-watson-returns-to-bamma-after-three-years-on-the-sidelines|title=Tom Watson returns to BAMMA after three years on the sidelines|author=Peter Carroll|date=25 July 2018|publisher=mmafighting.com}}</ref> Due to complete lack of events in BAMMA, Watson was announced to have signed with Cage Warriors and will be moving down to welterweight division.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2019/2/6/18213642/tom-watson-signs-with-cage-warriors|title=Tom Watson signs with Cage Warriors|author=Peter Carroll|date=6 February 2019|publisher=mmafighting.com}}</ref> Watson was expected to face Aaron Khalid at Cage Warriors 104, but on the fight day he was not medically cleared and was forced off the card.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2019/4/27/18519605/tom-watson-out-cage-warriors-104-mma|title=Tom Watson not medically cleared to fight at tonight's Cage Warriors 104|date=27 April 2019|publisher=mmafighting.com|author=Guilherme Cruz}}</ref>


==Championships and accomplishments==
==Championships and accomplishments==
*'''[[BAMMA]]'''
*'''[[BAMMA]]'''
**BAMMA World Middleweight Championship (One Time)
**BAMMA World Middleweight Championship (One time)
**Three successful title defenses
***Three successful title defenses
**Fight of the Night (Five Times)
**Fight of the Night (Five times)
**Knockout of the Night (Three Times)
**Knockout of the Night (Three times)
*'''[[Ultimate Fighting Championship]]'''
*'''[[Ultimate Fighting Championship]]'''
**[[List of UFC bonus award recipients|Fight of the Night]] (One Time)
**[[List of UFC bonus award recipients|Fight of the Night]] (One time)
**[[List of UFC bonus award recipients|Knockout of the Night]] (One Time)
**[[List of UFC bonus award recipients|Knockout of the Night]] (One time)
*'''[[Maximum Fighting Championship]]'''
*'''[[Maximum Fighting Championship]]'''
**Knockout of the Night (One Time)
**Knockout of the Night (One time)
**Knockout of the Year 2010
**Knockout of the Year 2010
*'''[[Ultimate Challenge MMA]]'''
*'''[[Ultimate Challenge MMA]]'''
**UCMMA World Middleweight Championship (One Time)
**UCMMA World Middleweight Championship (One time)
**One successful title defense
***One successful title defense


==Mixed martial arts record==
==Mixed martial arts record==
Line 129: Line 133:
|Decision (unanimous)
|Decision (unanimous)
|[[UFC Fight Night: Teixeira vs. Saint Preux]]
|[[UFC Fight Night: Teixeira vs. Saint Preux]]
|{{dts|2015|August|8}}
|{{dts|format=dmy|2015|August|8}}
|align=center|3
|align=center|3
|align=center|5:00
|align=center|5:00
Line 140: Line 144:
| Decision (unanimous)
| Decision (unanimous)
| [[UFC 183]]
| [[UFC 183]]
| {{dts|2015|January|31}}
| {{dts|format=dmy|2015|January|31}}
| align=center| 3
| align=center| 3
| align=center| 5:00
| align=center| 5:00
Line 151: Line 155:
| Decision (unanimous)
| Decision (unanimous)
| [[UFC Fight Night: Bader vs. St. Preux]]
| [[UFC Fight Night: Bader vs. St. Preux]]
| {{dts|2014|August|16}}
| {{dts|format=dmy|2014|August|16}}
| align=center| 3
| align=center| 3
| align=center| 5:00
| align=center| 5:00
Line 162: Line 166:
| Decision (split)
| Decision (split)
| [[UFC 169]]
| [[UFC 169]]
| {{dts|2014|February|1}}
| {{dts|format=dmy|2014|February|1}}
| align=center| 3
| align=center| 3
| align=center| 5:00
| align=center| 5:00
Line 173: Line 177:
| Decision (unanimous)
| Decision (unanimous)
| [[UFC 163]]
| [[UFC 163]]
| {{dts|2013|August|3}}
| {{dts|format=dmy|2013|August|3}}
| align=center| 3
| align=center| 3
| align=center| 5:00
| align=center| 5:00
Line 183: Line 187:
| [[Stanislav Nedkov]]
| [[Stanislav Nedkov]]
| TKO (knees and punches)
| TKO (knees and punches)
| [[2013 in UFC#UFC on Fuel TV: Barao vs. McDonald|UFC on Fuel TV: Barao vs. McDonald]]
| [[UFC on Fuel TV: Barão vs. McDonald]]
| {{dts|2013|February|16}}
| {{dts|format=dmy|2013|February|16}}
| align=center| 2
| align=center| 2
| align=center| 4:42
| align=center| 4:42
Line 195: Line 199:
| Decision (split)
| Decision (split)
| [[UFC on Fuel TV: Struve vs. Miocic]]
| [[UFC on Fuel TV: Struve vs. Miocic]]
| {{dts|2012|September|29}}
| {{dts|format=dmy|2012|September|29}}
| align=center| 3
| align=center| 3
| align=center| 5:00
| align=center| 5:00
Line 206: Line 210:
| TKO (punches and elbows)
| TKO (punches and elbows)
| [[BAMMA 9]]
| [[BAMMA 9]]
| {{dts|2012|March|24}}
| {{dts|format=dmy|2012|March|24}}
| align=center| 2
| align=center| 2
| align=center| 4:50
| align=center| 4:50
| [[Birmingham]], England
| [[Birmingham]], England
| {{small|Defended the BAMMA Middleweight Championship.}}
| {{small|Defended the [[BAMMA#BAMMA World Middleweight Championship|BAMMA World Middleweight Championship]]. Won the [[BAMMA#RDX Middleweight Championship|BAMMA British Middleweight Championship]].}}
|-
|-
| {{yes2}}Win
| {{yes2}}Win
Line 217: Line 221:
| KO (head kick and punches)
| KO (head kick and punches)
| [[BAMMA Events#BAMMA 6|BAMMA 6: Watson vs. Rua]]
| [[BAMMA Events#BAMMA 6|BAMMA 6: Watson vs. Rua]]
| {{dts|2011|May|21}}
| {{dts|format=dmy|2011|May|21}}
| align=center| 3
| align=center| 3
| align=center| 2:06
| align=center| 2:06
| [[London]], England
| [[London]], England
| {{small|Defended the BAMMA Middleweight Championship.}}
| {{small|Defended the [[BAMMA#BAMMA World Middleweight Championship|BAMMA World Middleweight Championship]].}}
|-
|-
| {{yes2}}Win
| {{yes2}}Win
Line 228: Line 232:
| Decision (unanimous)
| Decision (unanimous)
| [[BAMMA 4]]
| [[BAMMA 4]]
| {{dts|2010|September|25}}
| {{dts|format=dmy|2010|September|25}}
| align=center| 5
| align=center| 5
| align=center| 5:00
| align=center| 5:00
| [[Birmingham]], England
| [[Birmingham]], England
| {{small|Defended the BAMMA Middleweight Championship. Fight of the Night.}}
| {{small|Defended the [[BAMMA#BAMMA World Middleweight Championship|BAMMA World Middleweight Championship]]. Fight of the Night.}}
|-
|-
| {{no2}}Loss
| {{no2}}Loss
Line 239: Line 243:
| Decision (unanimous)
| Decision (unanimous)
| [[MFC 26]]
| [[MFC 26]]
| {{dts|2010|September|10}}
| {{dts|format=dmy|2010|September|10}}
| align=center| 3
| align=center| 3
| align=center| 5:00
| align=center| 5:00
Line 250: Line 254:
| Decision (unanimous)
| Decision (unanimous)
| [[BAMMA 3]]
| [[BAMMA 3]]
| {{dts|2010|May|15}}
| {{dts|format=dmy|2010|May|15}}
| align=center| 5
| align=center| 5
| align=center| 5:00
| align=center| 5:00
| [[Birmingham]], England
| [[Birmingham]], England
| {{small|Won the BAMMA Middleweight Championship. Fight of the Night.}}
| {{small|Won the inaugural [[BAMMA#BAMMA World Middleweight Championship|BAMMA World Middleweight Championship]]. Fight of the Night.}}
|-
|-
| {{yes2}}Win
| {{yes2}}Win
Line 261: Line 265:
| KO (head kick)
| KO (head kick)
| [[MFC 24]]
| [[MFC 24]]
| {{dts|2010|February|26}}
| {{dts|format=dmy|2010|February|26}}
| align=center| 1
| align=center| 1
| align=center| 1:56
| align=center| 1:56
Line 272: Line 276:
| Decision (split)
| Decision (split)
| [[2009 in Ultimate Challenge MMA#UCMMA 8: Dynamite|UCMMA 8: Dynamite]]
| [[2009 in Ultimate Challenge MMA#UCMMA 8: Dynamite|UCMMA 8: Dynamite]]
| {{dts|2009|October|24}}
| {{dts|format=dmy|2009|October|24}}
| align=center| 3
| align=center| 3
| align=center| 5:00
| align=center| 5:00
Line 283: Line 287:
| TKO (punches)
| TKO (punches)
| [[BAMMA 1]]
| [[BAMMA 1]]
| {{dts|2009|June|27}}
| {{dts|format=dmy|2009|June|27}}
| align=center| 2
| align=center| 2
| align=center| 3:47
| align=center| 3:47
Line 294: Line 298:
| TKO (punches)
| TKO (punches)
| [[2008 in Ultimate Challenge MMA#UCMMA 1: Bad Breed|UCMMA 1: Bad Breed]]
| [[2008 in Ultimate Challenge MMA#UCMMA 1: Bad Breed|UCMMA 1: Bad Breed]]
| {{dts|2008|December|06}}
| {{dts|format=dmy|2008|December|06}}
| align=center| 1
| align=center| 1
| align=center| 1:57
| align=center| 1:57
Line 305: Line 309:
| Decision (unanimous)
| Decision (unanimous)
| Atlas Fighting Challenge
| Atlas Fighting Challenge
| {{dts|2008|August|09}}
| {{dts|format=dmy|2008|August|09}}
| align=center| 3
| align=center| 3
| align=center| 5:00
| align=center| 5:00
Line 313: Line 317:
| {{yes2}}Win
| {{yes2}}Win
| align=center| 6–3
| align=center| 6–3
| John Phillips
| [[John Phillips (fighter)|John Phillips]]
| Decision (unanimous)
| Decision (unanimous)
| [[2008 in Cage Rage Championships#Cage Rage 27|Cage Rage 27]]
| [[2008 in Cage Rage Championships#Cage Rage 27|Cage Rage 27]]
| {{dts|2008|July|12}}
| {{dts|format=dmy|2008|July|12}}
| align=center| 3
| align=center| 3
| align=center| 5:00
| align=center| 5:00
Line 327: Line 331:
| KO (upkick)
| KO (upkick)
| [[2008 in Cage Rage Championships#Cage Rage 25|Cage Rage 25]]
| [[2008 in Cage Rage Championships#Cage Rage 25|Cage Rage 25]]
| {{dts|2008|March|08}}
| {{dts|format=dmy|2008|March|08}}
| align=center| 1
| align=center| 1
| align=center| 1:05
| align=center| 1:05
Line 338: Line 342:
| Decision (split)
| Decision (split)
| [[2007 in Cage Rage Championships#Cage Rage 24|Cage Rage 24]]
| [[2007 in Cage Rage Championships#Cage Rage 24|Cage Rage 24]]
| {{dts|2007|December|01}}
| {{dts|format=dmy|2007|December|01}}
| align=center| 3
| align=center| 3
| align=center| 5:00
| align=center| 5:00
Line 349: Line 353:
| Decision (unanimous)
| Decision (unanimous)
| [[2007 in Cage Rage Championships#Cage Rage 22|Cage Rage 22]]
| [[2007 in Cage Rage Championships#Cage Rage 22|Cage Rage 22]]
| {{dts|2007|July|14}}
| {{dts|format=dmy|2007|July|14}}
| align=center| 3
| align=center| 3
| align=center| 5:00
| align=center| 5:00
Line 360: Line 364:
| Submission (triangle kimura)
| Submission (triangle kimura)
| [[2007 in Cage Rage Championships#Cage Rage 21|Cage Rage 21]]
| [[2007 in Cage Rage Championships#Cage Rage 21|Cage Rage 21]]
| {{dts|2007|April|21}}
| {{dts|format=dmy|2007|April|21}}
| align=center| 2
| align=center| 2
| align=center| 2:27
| align=center| 2:27
Line 371: Line 375:
| KO (slam and punches)
| KO (slam and punches)
| [[2007 in Cage Rage Championships#Cage Rage Contenders 4|Cage Rage Contenders 4]]
| [[2007 in Cage Rage Championships#Cage Rage Contenders 4|Cage Rage Contenders 4]]
| {{dts|2007|March|03}}
| {{dts|format=dmy|2007|March|03}}
| align=center| 1
| align=center| 1
| align=center| 2:21
| align=center| 2:21
Line 382: Line 386:
| Submission (armbar)
| Submission (armbar)
| [[2007 in Cage Rage Championships#Cage Rage 20|Cage Rage 20]]
| [[2007 in Cage Rage Championships#Cage Rage 20|Cage Rage 20]]
| {{dts|2007|February|10}}
| {{dts|format=dmy|2007|February|10}}
| align=center| 1
| align=center| 1
| align=center| 0:59
| align=center| 0:59
Line 393: Line 397:
| Decision
| Decision
| ZT Fight Night 2
| ZT Fight Night 2
| {{dts|2006|June|25}}
| {{dts|format=dmy|2006|June|25}}
| align=center| 3
| align=center| 3
| align=center| 5:00
| align=center| 5:00
Line 404: Line 408:
| Submission (guillotine choke)
| Submission (guillotine choke)
| ZT Fight Night 1
| ZT Fight Night 1
| {{dts|2006|February|19}}
| {{dts|format=dmy|2006|February|19}}
| align=center| 1
| align=center| 1
| align=center| 1:11
| align=center| 1:11
Line 412: Line 416:


==See also==
==See also==
{{portal|MMA}}
* [[List of current UFC fighters]]
* [[List of current UFC fighters]]
* [[List of male mixed martial artists]]
* [[List of male mixed martial artists]]
Line 421: Line 424:
==External links==
==External links==
* {{Sherdog}}
* {{Sherdog}}
*{{UFC|Tom-Watson|Tom Watson}}
*{{UFC|tom-watson}}
* [http://www.themmadigest.com/top-5-tom-kong-watson-kos Top 5 Tom Watson Knockouts]
* [http://www.themmadigest.com/top-5-tom-kong-watson-kos Top 5 Tom Watson Knockouts]


Line 427: Line 430:
[[Category:1982 births]]
[[Category:1982 births]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:Sportspeople from Southampton]]
⚫
[[Category:English male karateka]]
⚫
[[Category:British savateurs]]
[[Category:British wushu practitioners]]
[[Category:English Wing Chun practitioners]]
[[Category:Kyokushin kaikan practitioners]]
⚫
[[Category:Mixed martial artists utilizing Kyokushin kaikan]]
[[Category:English male mixed martial artists]]
[[Category:English male mixed martial artists]]
⚫
[[Category:Mixed martial artists utilizing boxing]]
[[Category:Mixed martial artists utilizing Brazilian jiu-jitsu]]
[[Category:Middleweight mixed martial artists]]
[[Category:Middleweight mixed martial artists]]
[[Category:English Muay Thai practitioners]]
[[Category:English practitioners of Brazilian jiu-jitsu]]
[[Category:English practitioners of Brazilian jiu-jitsu]]
[[Category:English expatriates in Canada]]
[[Category:Sportspeople from Southampton]]
[[Category:Ultimate Fighting Championship male fighters]]
⚫
[[Category:21st-century English sportsmen]]
⚫
[[Category:British catch wrestlers]]
[[Category:Mixed martial artists utilizing catch wrestling]]

Latest revision as of 03:22, 2 December 2024

For other people named Thomas Watson, see Thomas Watson (disambiguation).

Tom Watson
Born (1982-07-13) 13 July 1982 (age 42)
Southampton, England
Other namesKong
Height6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)[1]
Weight186 lb (84 kg; 13.3 st)
DivisionMiddleweight
Reach73.0 in (185 cm)[2]
TeamJaco Hybrid Training Center (Blackzilians)
Years active2006-2015
Mixed martial arts record
Total26
Wins17
By knockout8
By submission1
By decision8
Losses9
By submission2
By decision7
Mixed martial arts record from Sherdog

Tom Watson (born 13 July 1982) is an English mixed martial artist currently competing in the welterweight division of Cage Warriors. A professional competitor since 2006, he is the former BAMMA Middleweight Champion, the former UCMMA Middleweight Champion, and has also competed for the UFC, Cage Rage and the MFC.

Background

[edit]

Watson began training when he was 16 years old and has an extensive boxing background, winning two awards, Amateur Boxing Standout 2006, a three-time ABA Southern Counties Champion, and Full Contact Unlicensed Boxing Champion.[3] Watson's nickname comes from his famous ring walks, featuring Watson wearing a gorilla mask.[4]

Watson has also competed in catch wrestling at the Snake Pit World Championships.[5]

Mixed martial arts career

[edit]

Cage Rage and early career

[edit]

Watson held a 1-0-1 amateur record before turning professional in 2006. He won his first two fights and was then given the chance to fight in the UK's top MMA promotion, Cage Rage. His first fight was against Daijiro Matsui in February 2007 at Cage Rage 20, and he lost via an armbar in the first round. He returned to the cage a month later and impressively defeated Dorlan O'Malley via KO after a slam.[citation needed]

After this, he was given another chance against a higher profile opponent. He took on UFC veteran Xavier Foupa-Pokam at CageRage 21: Judgement Day in April, 2007, but was submitted again. He fought a further two times that year, and recorded a win and a loss. In 2008, he began to climb the ladder again by beating Pierre Guillet and John Phillips, but Cage Rage went into liquidation and he then went to Ultimate Challenge MMA.[citation needed]

Ultimate Challenge MMA

[edit]

Watson's first Ultimate Challenge MMA bout came against Daniel Cubitt at Ultimate Challenge UK: Bad Breed in December 2008. He won the fight by knocking his opponent out less than two minutes into the first round to win the inaugural Ultimate Challenge UK title. He returned to Ultimate Challenge UK: Dynamite in October 2009 to take on Denniston Sutherland, and defeated him via split decision.[citation needed]

Maximum Fighting Championship

[edit]

On 10 January 2010, Watson signed a three-fight deal with the Maximum Fighting Championship, a Canadian promotion.[6] His first fight was on 26 February 2010, where he took on Travis Galbraith on MFC 24: Heat XC. In the second minute of the first round, Kong knocked his opponent out with a vicious right head kick. This won him knockout of the night and put him at the top of the list for knockout of the year.[citation needed]

His second fight for the Canadian promotion took place on the main card of MFC 26 card against Jesse Taylor.[7] Watson lost via unanimous decision (30-26, 30–26, 30-26) after being deducted a point for repeatedly grabbing the ropes.[citation needed]

BAMMA

[edit]

On 27 June 2009, Watson fought at the British Association of Mixed Martial Arts' first event, BAMMA 1: The Fighting Premiership. After a hard-fought battle, Watson defeated John Maguire via TKO at 2:47 in round 3. It was confirmed that Maguire had broken his arm during the fight after a takedown.

He was then scheduled to fight Celebrity Big Brother winner Alex Reid for the vacant Middleweight Championship at BAMMA 3 in May 2010.[8] However, Reid injured his knee while filming his documentary TV series Alex Reid: The Fight of His Life and was forced to pull out of the fight. This angered Watson, who claimed Reid was disrespecting him.[9] Watson also called him a "clown" and said that it was likely Reid pulled out to avoid an embarrassing defeat.[10] Reid was then replaced by UFC and IFL veteran Matt Horwich. After miraculously freeing himself from a rear-naked choke in the first round, Watson went on to dominate the fight with his superior striking and won via unanimous decision (48-47, 49–47, 49-46) to become the first BAMMA Middleweight Champion.[11]

Initially, Watson maintained that he did not want to waste any more time training for and fighting such a low-level opponent as Reid[12] but the Reid vs. Watson fight was rescheduled for BAMMA 4 on 25 September 2010.[12] Watson won by unanimous decision, as the judges scored the fight 49-46 49-46 49–47.[13]

On 21 May 2011, he faced former EliteXC Middleweight Champion Murilo Rua at Wembley Arena in London, England, defeating the PRIDE FC veteran by KO due to head kick followed up by punches in the third round, and defending his BAMMA Middleweight Title in the process.[14]

Watson was set to fight former UFC Welterweight contender and current BAMMA Middleweight, Frank Trigg, for Kong's BAMMA Middleweight Championship. However, Tom suffered a back injury and was replaced by Jim Wallhead.

Watson defended his title at BAMMA 9 against BAMMA British Middleweight Champion Jack Marshman, winning via TKO in the second round.[15]

Ultimate Fighting Championship

[edit]

After successfully defending his BAMMA Middleweight Championship title three times, Watson signed a contract with the UFC in July 2012.[16][17]

In his debut, Watson fought Brad Tavares on 29 September 2012 at UFC on Fuel TV 5.[18] He lost the fight via split decision.

Watson next faced undefeated Stanislav Nedkov on 16 February 2013 at UFC on Fuel TV: Barão vs. McDonald.[19] He won the back-and-forth fight via TKO in the second round. Both participants earned Fight of the Night honors for their performance, while Watson also earned a Knockout of the Night bonus.

For his third fight with the promotion, Watson faced Thales Leites on 3 August 2013 at UFC 163.[20] He lost the fight via unanimous decision.

Watson was expected to face Alessio Sakara on 26 October 2013 at UFC Fight Night: Machida vs. Munoz.[21] However, he was forced out of the bout with an injury and was replaced by Magnus Cedenblad.[22]

Watson fought Nick Catone on 1 February 2014 at UFC 169.[23] He lost the fight via split decision.

Watson faced promotional newcomer Sam Alvey on 16 August 2014 at UFC Fight Night 47.[24] He won the back-and-forth fight via unanimous decision.

Watson faced Rafael Natal on 31 January 2015 at UFC 183.[25] He lost the fight by unanimous decision.[26]

Watson faced Chris Camozzi on 8 August 2015 at UFC Fight Night 73.[27] He lost the fight by unanimous decision and was subsequently released from the promotion.[28][29]

Return to BAMMA

[edit]

On 25 July 2018 it was announced that after a three-year hiatus from fighting, Watson had signed a multi-fight contract with BAMMA.[30] Due to complete lack of events in BAMMA, Watson was announced to have signed with Cage Warriors and will be moving down to welterweight division.[31] Watson was expected to face Aaron Khalid at Cage Warriors 104, but on the fight day he was not medically cleared and was forced off the card.[32]

Championships and accomplishments

[edit]

Mixed martial arts record

[edit]
Professional record breakdown
26 matches 17 wins 9 losses
By knockout 8 0
By submission 1 2
By decision 8 7
Res. Record Opponent Method Event Date Round Time Location Notes
Loss 17–9 Chris Camozzi Decision (unanimous) UFC Fight Night: Teixeira vs. Saint Preux 8 August 2015 3 5:00 Nashville, Tennessee, United States Watson was deducted one point in the second round due to repeated illegal groin strikes.
Loss 17–8 Rafael Natal Decision (unanimous) UFC 183 31 January 2015 3 5:00 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States
Win 17–7 Sam Alvey Decision (unanimous) UFC Fight Night: Bader vs. St. Preux 16 August 2014 3 5:00 Bangor, Maine, United States
Loss 16–7 Nick Catone Decision (split) UFC 169 1 February 2014 3 5:00 Newark, New Jersey, United States
Loss 16–6 Thales Leites Decision (unanimous) UFC 163 3 August 2013 3 5:00 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Win 16–5 Stanislav Nedkov TKO (knees and punches) UFC on Fuel TV: Barão vs. McDonald 16 February 2013 2 4:42 London, England Knockout of the Night. Fight of the Night.
Loss 15–5 Brad Tavares Decision (split) UFC on Fuel TV: Struve vs. Miocic 29 September 2012 3 5:00 Nottingham, England
Win 15–4 Jack Marshman TKO (punches and elbows) BAMMA 9 24 March 2012 2 4:50 Birmingham, England Defended the BAMMA World Middleweight Championship. Won the BAMMA British Middleweight Championship.
Win 14–4 Murilo Rua KO (head kick and punches) BAMMA 6: Watson vs. Rua 21 May 2011 3 2:06 London, England Defended the BAMMA World Middleweight Championship.
Win 13–4 Alex Reid Decision (unanimous) BAMMA 4 25 September 2010 5 5:00 Birmingham, England Defended the BAMMA World Middleweight Championship. Fight of the Night.
Loss 12–4 Jesse Taylor Decision (unanimous) MFC 26 10 September 2010 3 5:00 Brandon, Manitoba, Canada
Win 12–3 Matt Horwich Decision (unanimous) BAMMA 3 15 May 2010 5 5:00 Birmingham, England Won the inaugural BAMMA World Middleweight Championship. Fight of the Night.
Win 11–3 Travis Galbraith KO (head kick) MFC 24 26 February 2010 1 1:56 Edmonton, Alberta, Canada Knockout of the Night.
Win 10–3 Denniston Sutherland Decision (split) UCMMA 8: Dynamite 24 October 2009 3 5:00 London, England Defended the UCMMA Middleweight Championship.
Win 9–3 John Maguire TKO (punches) BAMMA 1 27 June 2009 2 3:47 London, England Knockout of the Night. Fight of the Night.
Win 8–3 Daniel Cubitt TKO (punches) UCMMA 1: Bad Breed 6 December 2008 1 1:57 London, England Won the UCMMA Middleweight Championship.
Win 7–3 Lloyd Clarkson Decision (unanimous) Atlas Fighting Challenge 9 August 2008 3 5:00 Coventry, England
Win 6–3 John Phillips Decision (unanimous) Cage Rage 27 12 July 2008 3 5:00 London, England
Win 5–3 Pierre Guillet KO (upkick) Cage Rage 25 8 March 2008 1 1:05 London, England
Loss 4–3 Mark Epstein Decision (split) Cage Rage 24 1 December 2007 3 5:00 London, England
Win 4–2 Ed Smith Decision (unanimous) Cage Rage 22 14 July 2007 3 5:00 London, England
Loss 3–2 Xavier Foupa-Pokam Submission (triangle kimura) Cage Rage 21 21 April 2007 2 2:27 London, England
Win 3–1 Dorlan O'Malley KO (slam and punches) Cage Rage Contenders 4 3 March 2007 1 2:21 London, England
Loss 2–1 Daijiro Matsui Submission (armbar) Cage Rage 20 10 February 2007 1 0:59 London, England
Win 2–0 Tulio Palhares Decision ZT Fight Night 2 25 June 2006 3 5:00 London, England
Win 1–0 Michael Watson Submission (guillotine choke) ZT Fight Night 1 19 February 2006 1 1:11 London, England

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "Fight Card - UFC Fight Night Teixeira vs. Saint Preux". UFC.com. Retrieved 9 August 2015.
  2. ^ "Fight Card - UFC Fight Night Bader vs. Saint Preux". UFC.com. Retrieved 17 August 2014.
  3. ^ "Tom Watson - Official UFC Fighter Profile". UFC.com. Retrieved 8 August 2015.
  4. ^ "BT Sport | the Heart of Sport | BT Sport".
  5. ^ Whittle, Jay (30 October 2019). "Wigan snakepit to host World Championships - with UFC fighters and Olympian taking part". Wigan Today. Retrieved 1 December 2024.
  6. ^ "Maximum Fighting Championship signs Tom 'Kong' Watson". Aroundtheoctagon.com. 13 January 2010. Retrieved 18 July 2011.
  7. ^ "Maximum Fighting Championship". www.maximumfighting.com. Archived from the original on 29 July 2010. Retrieved 17 January 2022.
  8. ^ "Alex Reid vs Tom Watson". Bamma.net. Retrieved 18 July 2011.
  9. ^ "Alex Reid Pulls Out of Controversial Title Fight with Tom Watson". Bleacherreport.com. Retrieved 18 July 2011.
  10. ^ "Cage fighter Tom "Kong" Watson calls Alex Reid 'a clown'". Unrealitytv.co.uk. 3 March 2010. Retrieved 18 July 2011.
  11. ^ BAMMA 3 - Full Review. "BAMMA 3 - Full Review". Blogs.mirror.co.uk. Archived from the original on 2 September 2012. Retrieved 18 July 2011.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
  12. ^ a b "BAMMA: Reid v Watson WILL happen, but not at BAMMA 3". Blogs.mirror.co.uk. 2 April 2011. Archived from the original on 11 October 2011. Retrieved 18 July 2011.
  13. ^ "BAMMA 4 Results". Archived from the original on 1 October 2010. Retrieved 30 September 2010.
  14. ^ "BAMMA 6 Results: Tom Watson Retires Murilo 'Ninja' Rua". Mmafighting.com. 22 May 2011. Retrieved 18 July 2011.
  15. ^ Head, Simon (9 February 2012). "Serving paratrooper Jack Marshman gets BAMMA world title shot". mirror.co.uk. Retrieved 26 October 2013.
  16. ^ "Brits Watson and Manuwa heading to the UFC". ESPN. Retrieved 5 July 2012.
  17. ^ YourMMA.tv. "Tom Watson Joins British Legion In UFC". YourMMA.tv. Archived from the original on 8 July 2012. Retrieved 5 July 2012.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: unfit URL (link)
  18. ^ "UFC: Nottingham Adds Tom 'Kong' Watson vs. Brad Tavares". mmaweekly.com. 5 July 2012. Retrieved 5 July 2012.
  19. ^ "UFC on FUEL TV 7 adds Tom Watson vs. Stanislav Nedkov". mmajunkie.com. 16 December 2012.
  20. ^ "Thales Leites vs. Tom Watson added to UFC 163". themmareport.com. 30 May 2013.
  21. ^ "Watson Draws Sakara In UFC Manchester Stand Up Battle". YourMMA.tv. 21 August 2013. Archived from the original on 21 August 2013.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: unfit URL (link)
  22. ^ Tom Watson out, Magnus Cedenblad meets Alessio Sakara at UFC Fight Night 30 | MMAjunkie
  23. ^ Matt Erickson (5 December 2013). "Nick Catone vs. Tom Watson booked for UFC 169 on Super Bowl weekend". MMAJunkie.com. Retrieved 5 December 2013.
  24. ^ Guilherme Cruz (14 June 2014). "Sam Alvey signs with the UFC, meets Tom Watson at UFN 47". mmafighting.com. Retrieved 14 June 2014.
  25. ^ Staff (13 November 2014). "Rafael Natal vs. Tom Watson set for UFC 183 in Las Vegas". MMAjunkie.com. Retrieved 13 November 2014.
  26. ^ Brent Brookhouse (31 January 2015). "UFC 183 results, photos: Rafael Natal dominates gritty Tom Watson". mmajunkie.com. Retrieved 31 January 2015.
  27. ^ Staff (15 June 2015). "Chris Camozzi vs. Tom Watson added to UFC Fight Night 73 in Nashville". mmajunkie.com. Retrieved 15 June 2015.
  28. ^ Ben Fowlkes (8 August 2015). "UFC Fight Night 73 results: Chris Camozzi takes unanimous decision over Tom Watson". mmajunkie.com. Retrieved 8 August 2015.
  29. ^ Mookie Alexander (1 September 2015). "Report: Dan Miller, Darrell Montague among 13 fighters released from UFC". bloodyelbow.com. Retrieved 1 September 2015.
  30. ^ Peter Carroll (25 July 2018). "Tom Watson returns to BAMMA after three years on the sidelines". mmafighting.com.
  31. ^ Peter Carroll (6 February 2019). "Tom Watson signs with Cage Warriors". mmafighting.com.
  32. ^ Guilherme Cruz (27 April 2019). "Tom Watson not medically cleared to fight at tonight's Cage Warriors 104". mmafighting.com.
[edit]
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Tom_Watson_(fighter)&oldid=1260695220"