Sullivan Cauley Bio
Sullivan Troy Cauley is an American professional mixed martial artist competing in the light heavyweight division of the Professional Fighters League (PFL). Since turning professional in 2020, he has also competed in Bellator MMA, establishing himself as a powerful striker with a strong wrestling base.
Early Life and Background
Born on May 15, 1996, in Scottsdale, Arizona, Sullivan Cauley developed an early interest in combat sports. He attended Reno High School, where he began wrestling in the tenth grade, laying the foundation for his future MMA career. Cauley furthered his wrestling skills at Arizona State University as a member of the Sun Devils wrestling team, gaining valuable collegiate experience.
Alongside wrestling, Cauley trained in Muay Thai, achieving notable success by winning a silver medal in the +91kg division at the 2019 IFMA World Muaythai Championships in the under-23 category. This combination of wrestling and striking disciplines shaped his versatile fighting style.
Path to MMA
Cauley’s transition from amateur wrestling and Muay Thai to professional mixed martial arts began in 2020. His wrestling background provided a strong grappling foundation, while his Muay Thai skills enhanced his striking capabilities. This blend allowed him to compete effectively in the light heavyweight division as he progressed through the ranks.
Early in his career, Cauley gained attention for his aggressive style and finishing ability, quickly earning opportunities to fight in prominent organizations. His commitment to training and development at Dan’s Gym has been instrumental in his growth as a fighter.
Sullivan Cauley Career
Early Career (2020–2021)
Sullivan Cauley made his professional MMA debut at Bellator 253 on November 19, 2020, facing Jason Markland. He secured a first-round technical knockout victory, signaling his arrival on the professional scene. Over the next year, Cauley continued to build momentum with multiple first-round stoppages, showcasing his knockout power and submission skills.
During this period, Cauley fought Deon Clash at Bellator 268 in October 2021, winning by technical knockout with just one second left in the first round. These early successes established him as a rising prospect in the light heavyweight division.
Bellator MMA Breakthrough (2021–2023)
In 2022, Cauley maintained his winning streak with impressive performances. He defeated Ben Parrish at Bellator 273 via technical knockout late in the first round and followed up with a first-round knockout of Tyson Jeffries at Bellator 284. His ability to finish fights quickly became a hallmark of his style.
Later that year, Cauley knocked out Jay Radick at Bellator 288, further solidifying his reputation. However, in March 2023 at Bellator 293, he faced his first professional loss via rear-naked choke submission to Luke Trainer. Cauley rebounded in August 2023 at Bellator 298 with a first-round technical submission win over Hamza Salim, demonstrating resilience and adaptability.
Professional Fighters League Era (2025–Present)
In 2025, Sullivan Cauley joined the Professional Fighters League light heavyweight tournament. He was scheduled to face Marcelo Nunes in the quarterfinals at PFL 4 but fought Alex Polizzi instead due to Nunes’ withdrawal. Cauley won by first-round technical knockout, advancing to the semifinals.
At PFL 7, Cauley defeated Phil Davis by unanimous decision, earning a spot in the finals. He achieved a top-10 light heavyweight ranking by Fight Matrix in July 2025. In the finals at PFL 10, Cauley faced Antônio Carlos Júnior but lost via submission in the second round, marking a significant moment in his career.
Fighting Style and Strengths
Sullivan Cauley combines freestyle wrestling with Muay Thai striking, making him a versatile and dangerous competitor. His wrestling background allows him to control opponents on the ground, while his knockout power and submission skills enable him to finish fights decisively. Training under Dan’s Gym, Cauley has developed a strategic approach that balances aggression with technical proficiency.
Notable Events and Milestones
Cauley’s rapid rise through Bellator with multiple first-round finishes and his advancement to the PFL light heavyweight finals are key milestones. His silver medal at the IFMA World Muaythai Championships also highlights his striking credentials. Despite setbacks, Cauley has demonstrated resilience and continuous improvement throughout his career.
Sullivan Cauley Career Wins
As of 2025, Sullivan Cauley holds a professional record of 8 wins and 2 losses. His victories include 6 knockouts, 2 submissions, and 1 decision, reflecting his finishing ability across multiple disciplines.
Bellator MMA Highlights
Cauley amassed several first-round stoppages in Bellator MMA, including wins over Jason Markland, Deon Clash, Ben Parrish, Tyson Jeffries, and Jay Radick. These performances established him as a formidable light heavyweight contender and showcased his striking and grappling prowess.
Professional Fighters League Highlights
In the PFL, Cauley continued his success with a first-round technical knockout over Alex Polizzi and a unanimous decision victory against Phil Davis. His run to the 2025 PFL light heavyweight finals marks a significant achievement in his career.
Sullivan Cauley Family
Family Background and Personal Life
Details about Sullivan Cauley’s family background and personal life remain private. He resides in Mesa, Arizona, and focuses on his professional MMA career. There is no public information regarding his marital status or children.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season marked a pivotal year for Sullivan Cauley as he competed in the PFL light heavyweight tournament. He demonstrated strong form with decisive victories in the quarterfinals and semifinals. Despite falling short in the finals against Antônio Carlos Júnior, Cauley’s performance elevated his profile and ranking within the division.
Throughout the season, Cauley benefited from his training at Dan’s Gym and maintained effective strategies that leveraged his wrestling and striking skills. His ability to adapt and compete at a high level suggests a promising outlook for future seasons.