Two-time national champion wrestler and U.S. Olympic team member, Jordan Oliver, is preparing for his MMA debut at Bellator 298, revealing that he has been training in MMA for nearly six years alongside his wrestling career and cites ex-UFC champion Daniel Cormier as his main inspiration.
Jordan Oliver, a two-time national champion wrestler and U.S. Olympic team member, has been faithfully preparing for his Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) debut for almost six years. Despite his commitment to wrestling, his original plan was always to transition into the world of MMA. For Oliver, the desire to reach the pinnacle of his athletic career remained a long-term goal since his early adulthood. Now, at the age of 33, this Pennsylvania-born wrestling champion is all set to play his first match scheduled for Friday night at Bellator 298.
Oliver’s vision to venture into the combative sport wasn’t an impulsive decision. On the contrary, his pathway to a professional MMA career had been carved many years ago. Picking up MMA came out of a deep-rooted passion for the sport and its complexities. He didn’t limit his focus solely to wrestling, but significantly involved himself in MMA long before signing a contract with Paramount, now serving as his promoter. Wrestling was indeed his primary interest, but the MMA training he undertook played a crucial role in refining his wrestling skills and timing.
Despite starting his MMA fighting career in his 30s, Oliver is elated and looks forward to challenges. He draws motivation from his mentor and friend, the former UFC champion Daniel Cormier, who also began his MMA career relatively late. Oliver admires Cormier’s illustrious career, which included winning titles in two different weight classes and becoming a UFC Hall of Fame member. Oliver sees Cormier’s journey not just as an inspirational tale but also a blueprint to emulate in his upcoming MMA career.
The anticipation and excitement surrounding Oliver’s Bellator debut are immense. He maintains a calm composure, welcoming the high expectations being set for him, largely due to his highly successful wrestling career and mentoring under Cormier. Oliver shared that he always loved competition and sees the rising pressure as a constructive setting for his personal growth and performance. He possesses a magnanimous attitude towards anticipation and believes it only raises expectations, which, in turn, enhances his performance. He further expressed his vision of being crowd favorite and stays ready for the target that could land on his back anytime.