David Michaud

David Michaud (born November 10, 1988) is an American professional mixed martial artist currently competing in the Welterweight division of Professional Fighters League. A professional competitor since 2009, he formerly competed for the Legacy Fighting Alliance, the UFC and Titan FC.

Michaud, who is an Oglala Lakota Native American, was born and raised on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in Pine Ridge, South Dakota. Michaud competed in wrestling, football, and baseball at Pine Ridge High School. Michaud won All-State honors in football, was an All-Conference selection in baseball, and in wrestling, Michaud finished first for 189 lbs. his senior season and also had a second-place finish as a sophomore. Overall, he held an overall high school record of 91-19 and went 15-1 during his senior season. Michaud was also the valedictorian of his reservation high school graduating class and held a 4.0. Michaud originally went to South Dakota State University to play football, but eventually turned his attention to wrestling after competing in only two matches his freshman year. Michaud was also a standout academically.

Early career

Michaud competed as a Light Heavyweight and Middleweight as an amateur, winning Ring Wars Championships in both divisions and compiling a record of 4-1. He began his amateur career at age 15.

Michaud then made his professional mixed martial arts debut in 2009 competing as a Welterweight in regional promotions across The Dakotas. Michaud compiled a record of 4-0, before auditioning for The Ultimate Fighter in 2012.

The Ultimate Fighter

Michaud appeared in the first episode of The Ultimate Fighter 16. Michaud lost via submission (arm-triangle choke) against Eddy Ellis during the entry round.

After TUF Michaud returned to the regional scene in The Dakotas, where he was able to string together a three-fight win streak, before being signed by the UFC.

Ultimate Fighting Championship

Michaud made his promotional debut, as a short notice replacement for an injured Danny Mitchell and faced Li Jingliang at UFC 173.Jingliang defeated Michaud split decision.

Michaud faced Garett Whiteley in a Lightweight bout on December 13, 2014 at UFC on Fox 13.Michaud won the fight via unanimous decision.

Michaud faced Olivier Aubin-Mercier on April 25, 2015 at UFC 186. He lost the fight via submission in the third round and was subsequently released from the promotion.

Bellator MMA

On July 10, 2018, it was announced that Michaud had signed a contract with Bellator. He faced Corey Davis at Bellator 204 on August 17, 2018 and won the fight via knockout in the first round.