Timothy Samuel Elliott Bio
Timothy Samuel Elliott is an American mixed martial artist competing in the Flyweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Since beginning his professional career in 2009, Elliott has earned recognition as the former Titan FC Flyweight Champion and winner of The Ultimate Fighter: Tournament of Champions. As of November 18, 2025, he is ranked #9 in the UFC flyweight standings.
Early Life and Background
Born on December 24, 1986, in Arkansas City, Kansas, Timothy Elliott moved with his father to Haysville, Kansas, during fourth grade where he began wrestling. He initially attended Campus High School, where he was a state wrestling runner-up, before transferring to Wichita South High School for his junior year. Elliott became a state wrestling champion during his senior year in 2005.
Continuing his wrestling career, Elliott competed at Labette Community College before transferring to the University of Central Oklahoma. There, he earned All-American honors and was a consistent placer throughout his collegiate wrestling career, culminating in becoming the NJCAA wrestling national champion in 2007. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Science and General Studies.
Path to MMA
Elliott transitioned from wrestling to mixed martial arts, beginning his professional MMA career in 2009. Early in his career, he compiled a record of 8–2–1, including a notable knockout victory over former UFC Lightweight Champion Jens Pulver. His success in regional promotions paved the way for his signing with the UFC in 2012.
Timothy Samuel Elliott Career
Early Career (2009–2012)
Tim Elliott began competing professionally in MMA in 2009, quickly establishing himself with a strong record and notable wins. His early career was marked by steady development and experience across various promotions. This period culminated in his signing with the UFC in April 2012.
In his UFC debut at UFC on Fox 3, Elliott faced John Dodson but lost via unanimous decision. He rebounded with wins over Jared Papazian and Louis Gaudinot, earning a Fight of the Night bonus for his bout with Papazian.
Titan FC Breakthrough (2015–2016)
Elliott made a significant impact in Titan Fighting Championship, debuting at Titan FC 34 where he won the inaugural Titan FC Flyweight Championship by unanimous decision over Iliarde Santos. He successfully defended the title twice, submitting Felipe Efrain and winning a unanimous decision against Pedro Nobre.
The Ultimate Fighter and UFC Return (2016–Present)
In 2016, Elliott participated in The Ultimate Fighter 24: Tournament of Champions, winning the competition and earning a title shot against Demetrious Johnson for the UFC Flyweight Championship. Although he lost the championship bout by unanimous decision, Elliott secured his place in the UFC flyweight division.
Following the tournament, Elliott experienced mixed results, including notable victories over Louis Smolka and Mark De La Rosa, the latter earning him a Performance of the Night bonus. He faced setbacks due to injuries, including an ACL tear in 2018, but continued to compete actively upon recovery.
In recent years, Elliott has fought several top contenders, including Deiveson Figueiredo and Askar Askarov, with varied outcomes. He remains a competitive presence in the flyweight division, currently fighting out of Next Generation MMA since 2022.
Driving Style and Strengths
Tim Elliott is known for his wrestling base and Brazilian jiu-jitsu skills, holding a blue belt in the latter. His fighting style emphasizes grappling control and submission ability, complemented by strategic striking. His experience and resilience have made him a tough competitor in the flyweight division.
Notable Events and Milestones
Elliott’s career highlights include winning the Titan FC Flyweight Championship, triumphing in The Ultimate Fighter 24 tournament, and earning multiple Fight of the Night and Performance of the Night bonuses in the UFC. His comeback from injury and sustained competitiveness at the highest level mark significant milestones.
Timothy Samuel Elliott Career Wins
Throughout his career, Timothy Elliott has amassed 21 professional wins across various promotions, including the UFC and Titan FC. His victories include six by submission, one by knockout, and six by decision, showcasing his versatility as a fighter.
UFC Highlights
In the UFC, Elliott has secured multiple wins, including notable victories over Jared Papazian, Louis Gaudinot, Louis Smolka, and Mark De La Rosa. His performance in The Ultimate Fighter 24 tournament was a career-defining moment, culminating in a title shot. Elliott has earned three Fight of the Night bonuses and three Performance of the Night awards in the UFC.
Titan FC Highlights
At Titan FC, Elliott captured the Flyweight Championship and defended it successfully twice. His dominant unanimous decision win over Iliarde Santos to claim the title and subsequent defenses solidified his reputation as a top flyweight contender.
Timothy Samuel Elliott Family
Family Background and Personal Life
Tim Elliott was previously in a relationship with fellow UFC fighter Gina Mazany; the couple became engaged in 2020 but later divorced. He has one daughter from a previous relationship. Elliott resides in Lee’s Summit, Missouri.
2025 Season Performance
In 2025, Timothy Elliott continues to compete actively in the UFC flyweight division. He secured a notable victory over former title challenger Kai Asakura at UFC 319 via guillotine choke, earning his third Performance of the Night award. Elliott is scheduled to face Su Mudaerji at UFC Fight Night 233 in December 2025, aiming to maintain his momentum and improve his ranking within the division.