Bill Cooper

Bill Cooper (born May 5, 1987) is an American mixed martial artist andBrazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, who formerly competed in the lightweight division of Strikeforce.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

At the time of his receiving his black belt, Cooper was the youngest American to do so.

Cooper's achievements include a Pan American gold medal at the brown belt level also a silver medal at the World Jiu-Jitsu Championships in the absolute category. Then, in 2008, Cooper placed second in the middleweight division at the black belt level. Also, he has won numerous Grapplers Quest championships.

On May 12, 2012, Cooper was invited to the World Jiu-Jitsu Expo where he defeated Nino Schembri by referee's decision.

Mixed martial arts

Cooper made his amateur MMA debut in April 2008 and he amassed an undefeated amateur record of 3-0 before turning pro.All of his wins came via submission in the first round.

Cooper made his professional MMA debut February 2011 in the Gladiator Challenge, winning via submission just 0:23 into the first round.In July 2011, Cooper signed a 4-fight deal with the MMA organization Strikeforce.He made his debut on the preliminary card of Strikeforce Challengers: Voelker vs. Bowling III, defeating Maka Watson via rear-naked choke submission in the second round.

Cooper faced Matt Ricehouse at Strikeforce Challengers 20 on November 18, 2011. Cooper lost the fight via unanimous decision, giving him the first loss of his career.

Despite a 1-1 record, Cooper was not on the list of fighters scheduled to be brought over to the Ultimate Fighting Championship when Strikeforce merged with the promotion in 2013. Cooper was scheduled to face Scott Catlin at the BAMMA event BadBeat 6 on July 13, 2012. However, days before the event, the bout was scrapped for unknown reasons.

• Gladiator Challenge
  • Gladiator Challenge Lightweight Championship (One time)