Joby Sanchez

Joby Sanchez (born June 24, 1991) is an American professional mixed martial artist currently competing in the Flyweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship.

Born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Sanchez started kickboxing at the age of seven, then began training Kajukenbo at the age of 10. He was a standout wrestler in high school at valley high school where he protected countless kids from being bullied for social reasons finishing as state runner-up in his weight division as a senior. Sanchez attended Central New Mexico Community College, where and became certified as an EMT.

Early career

Sanchez began competing as an amateur in mixed martial arts in 2009 and made his professional debut in 2011 competing in regional promotions primarily as a bantamweight in his home state of New Mexico. He compiled an undefeated record of 6-0, before signing with the UFC in the summer of 2014 on the heels of TKO stoppage victory over Antonio Banuelos.

Ultimate Fighting Championship

Sanchez made his promotional debut as a short notice replacement against Wilson Reis on August 23, 2014 at UFC Fight Night 49, filling in for an injured Tim Elliott. He lost the fight by unanimous decision.

Sanchez faced Tateki Matsuda on January 18, 2015 at UFC Fight Night 59. Sanchez defeated Matsuda in a back and forth fight via split decision.

Sanchez was expected to face Justin Scoggins on December 11, 2015 at The Ultimate Fighter 22 Finale. However, Scoggins pulled out of the fight in the week leading up to the event and was replaced by Geane Herrera. After a back-and-forth two rounds, Sanchez lost the bout via TKO in the end of the second round.