Securing approval from a combat sports tycoon such as White is a seldom-achieved milestone, yet Joseph Pyfer is anything but an average fighter. Pyfer's journey to the UFC stage is a narrative pulsating with determination. White recognized Pyfer's potential early on and endorsed the American during his appearance on his eponymous Contender Series. The stage was set, and Pyfer answered destiny's call.
A setback turned footnote as Pyfer rose from a defeat via injury in his first Contender Series appearance in August 2020 to secure a resounding victory on his second try in July 2022. White, an admirer of tenacity, not only applauded but handed Pyfer the golden ticket—an elusive UFC contract. Overflowing with appreciation, Pyfer disclosed that along with the contract he had also received a lifeline for a year's rent—White's kindness standing guard over his protege. As "Bodybagz" prepares to face ranked middleweight contender Jack Hermansson on Saturday at UFC Fight Night 236, we explore 5 things you might not know about him, peeling back the layers that define the man beyond the gloves.
1. An Unsentimental Philly Fighter
Pyfer contradicts the typical sentimentality associated with discussions about his hometown of Philadelphia. While his love for the city runs deep, Pyfer dismisses the conventional image of a "Philly fighter," boldly stating that toughness isn't merely a product of geographical origins. His distinctive viewpoint is forged by a life shaped by adversity, including battles with suicide and depression—making him resilient in ways that transcend the boundaries of the ring.
2. Life in the Fast Lane
Forged in the school of hard knocks, the curtains rose on Pyfer's journey in the UFC, and life in the fast lane undeniably brought changes. Reacting to the change in his life with a touch of humor, Pyfer casually remarked, “Besides the money that I have in my bank account, not too much." Despite newfound recognition and a burgeoning social media presence, Pyfer remains firmly grounded. His day-to-day routine and unwavering dedication to training have weathered the storm of fame. Acquiring a UFC contract was just one checkpoint; now, the spotlight is on staying and succeeding in the fiercely competitive arena.
3. Singular Focus
For Pyfer, reaching the UFC has been his lifelong commitment, and he proudly states, "I have no Plan B." His determination and hunger stem from a deep-seated desire to test his limits. Convinced that his skills surpass those of his competition, Pyfer rejects complacency. He sees himself not as a mere participant but as a relentless contender eager to push boundaries and discover just how far he can ascend on the grand stage of the UFC.
4. Reluctant Role Model
While he earns admiration as a potential role model, Pyfer hesitates to embrace such labels. His refusal stems not from humility but from a genuine desire to avoid becoming a poster child for sympathy. Rather than seeking the spotlight of a role model, Pyfer shares his journey to spark inspiration in those fueled by a burning passion. In his words, "I don't want to be a role model, I just want to be an inspiration for people that are hungry.” Pyfer is not a typical fighter burdened by the role model mantle but an unconventional inspiration for those navigating their unique paths in the tumultuous world of mixed martial arts.
5. Pre-Fight Chronicles
Before embracing the unforgiving Octagon, Pyfer worked at a variety of everyman occupations, including balancing roles at Verizon Wireless and Philly-area car dealership chain Piazza Honda.