Noad Lahat

Noad Lahat (Hebrew: נועד להט‎‎; born June 8, 1984), also known by the nickname Neo, is an Israeli mixed martial artist who competes in the featherweight division. He is one of the only Israeli-born fighters who were signed with the UFC and the second Israeli ever to fight in the promotion.

Early career

Lahat began training in judo at age five. After a stint in the Israeli Defense Forces, Lahat began training in mixed martial arts and began competing professionally in 2008, competing first as a lightweight, then as a featherweight for various regional promotions. He was able to compile an undefeated record along the way of 7-0 with six finishes before signing with the UFC in January 2014.

Ultimate Fighting Championship

Lahat made his promotional debut on March 23, 2014 against Godofredo Pepey at UFC Fight Night 38. He lost the fight via flying knee knockout in the first round.

Lahat faced Steven Siler on July 26, 2014 at UFC on Fox 12. Lahat won the fight via unanimous decision.

Lahat faced Niklas Bäckström on June 20, 2015 at UFC Fight Night 69 He won the back and forth fight by majority decision (28-28, 29-28, 29-28).

Following his military service, Lahat returned to the UFC to face Diego Rivas at UFC Fight Night: Hendricks vs. Thompson. Lahat controlled the first round, almost getting several submissions on Rivas. However, after 23 seconds in the second round he lost the fight via a flying knee knockout and was rendered unconscious for several minutes.

Bellator MMA

On June 9, 2016, it was reported that Lahat has signed a deal with Bellator MMA.

Lahat made his promotional debut against Scott Cleve at Bellator 164 on November 10, 2016. He won the fight via submission in the first round.

Lahat faced Lloyd Carter at Bellator 175 on March 31, 2017. He won the fight via submission in the second round.

Lahat currently resides in San Jose, California. He is married to Stephanie Lahat, with whom he welcomed their first son Ezra in 2015.