Benjamin Saunders (born April 13, 1983 in Orlando, Florida), is an American professional mixed martial artist. His background is in Jeet Kune Do concepts and he was a featured fighter on The Ultimate Fighter: Team Hughes vs. Team Serra, fighting on Team Serra.

 

Mixed martial arts
Ben began training in Martial Arts at a young age starting with Jeet Kune Do. Saunders began training in BJJ with the gi in 2003 and on Jan. 16, 2010, he received his brown belt.

 

The Ultimate Fighter
Saunders defeated Dan Barrera in the first round of the competition by split decision. Saunders was eliminated in the quarterfinals by Tommy Speer via decision.

Q&A

When and why did you start training for fighting? I’ve been doing martial arts since I was eight years old.  When I saw the UFC in ’93 back when I was ten years old, I was hooked.  I started training in everything and I knew that that was what I wanted to do.

 

What ranks and titles have you held? Purple belt in Jiu-Jitsu, won numerous jiu-jitsu tournaments, Combat Fighting Championships (CFC) Welterweight Champion.

 

Do you have any heroes?  Bruce Lee

 

What is your favorite technique?  I like to kick people in the head

 

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It means everything.  I saw it in 93 when I was ten years old and I made it a goal to reach.  I’m only 24 and I’m a real good spot in my career right now with a lot of time to still work on my skills, get better, and become a future champ.

 

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? Valencia Community College.  No degree.

 

What was your job before you started fighting?  I had numerous jobs.  I worked at McDonald’s, Burger King, and Blockbuster.  I was a hardwood stair carpenter for a little while and then became a barback at one of the top bars downtown in Orlando.