Torrez Finney Set For Another Spectacular Contender Series Showdown
The Contender Series has proven to be the gateway into the UFC for many skilled fighters. On August 20, 2024, another potential star will have his opportunity to bring his undefeated record into the Octagon for a second time with the dream of signing with the UFC. Tennessee’s Torrez Finney is a strike away from putting the fight world on notice.
College Athlete to MMA
A two-time high school state wrestling champion in the state of Georgia, Finney would secure a 40-0 record his senior year along with earning student of the year honors. Though he finished 10th in the nation at the NHSCA national wrestling tournament, Finney would go on to play football at The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga. A consistent Dean’s List scholar, Finney played in over 20 games over his first two seasons, mainly as a fullback. But what led to the mid-college change to wrestling collegiately?
In January 2018, the wrestling team was down a heavyweight and the school knew just who to call. Wrestling coach Heath Eslinger, who helped Finney walk on the football team, provided Finney with his collegiate wrestling opportunity. Though Finney tore his ACL, he was able to make a six-month return to athletics and start the football season at fullback.
“During my junior year in college I had an injury. I was coming back from that injury and started boxing. While I was boxing, COVID had hit. A few of my friends said I should try MMA. The moment I went to Agoge Combatitives (gym in Chattanooga, TN) I instantly fell in love with it. One of the best decision I’ve ever made in my life. During those COVID times I was so committed to learning the art. Constantly watching film of MMA fights along with old Pride stuff. I used to sneak out of my dorm to head to MMA practice. The love of fighting is truly in my heart, I should say!” Finney told MYMMANEWS.
Development Into MMA Star
Transitioning from a collegiate football player and state wrestling champion still requires much training to make the successful move into MMA. Finney was able to find the right formula. “First I want to give credit to Jesus Christ for allowing me to do this and instilling in me passion, work ethic, and a drive to be the best I can possibly be. Next, Matt Harris, Larry Scott, and Sterling Peace.”
“These three guys have put so much of their time and effort into me being what I am today, growing as a fighter. Larry Scott with being tough and never backing down; Muay Thai to Stering Peace strategic BJJ and thinking in the cage and fight IQ that molded me into the fighter I am today. Matt Harris’ ground game is for MMA and is amongst the best that there is in MMA. From top control positions, to looking for strikes, and for the sub is just second to none. He taught me everything about the ground and it really has helped my career far and wide,” stated Finney.
Second Contender Series Shot
Turning pro in February 2022, Finney would go on to win his first six bouts, five by finish. This 6-0 start would earn Finney a spot on the Contender Series. Finney did everything right, earning the second-round submission win, but did not get the call to the UFC. With his second Contender Series shot just six months later, how can another finish effect his calling up to the UFC?
“It will prove myself right on what I already know. That I belong on that next level. I’m growing everyday as a fighter and I know what type of level I’m on as a fighter. I get an opportunity to put an even bigger stamp on my career. This is a legacy fight for me early in my career and I’m treating it as such. People are going to remember how I overcame adversity from the previous year by seeing me put that fight behind me and stay ahead to what’s in front of me. What’s funny is that is how my whole life has been; overcoming the adversity,” said Finney.
So what can we expect from the future middleweight star in his second Contender Series showdown? “Fans can expect a man on a mission with dominant performance from Torrez Finney. I’m confident in my skills and confident in my approach. I’m confident in whatever God’s plan is for me. At the end of the night my hand will be raised in victory,” stated Finney.
