Joe Vedepo

Joe Vedepo is an American professional mixed martial artist currently competing in Bellator's Middleweight division. A professional competitor since 2005, he has also formerly competed for the UFC.

Background

Born and raised in Iowa City, Iowa, Vedepo was a standout wrestler at Iowa City High School, but was troubled, later getting expelled from school. Vedepo later began training in mixed martial arts.

Mixed martial arts career

Early career

Vedepo made his professional MMA debut in November 2005. He went undefeated at 6–0 in the first two and a half years of his career.

Ultimate Fighting Championship

Vedepo was invited to compete on The Ultimate Fighter 7 but declined for unknown reasons.

Vedepo made his debut for the UFC on September 17, 2008 against Alessio Sakara at UFC Fight Night 15. He lost the fight via KO in the first round.

For his second fight, Vedepo faced Rob Kimmons at UFC Fight Night 18 on April 1, 2009. He lost the fight via submission in the first round.

Vedepo was expected to face Gerald Harris on August 28, 2010 at UFC 118, replacing an injured Alessio Sakara. On August 18, it was announced that the Vedepo/Harris bout had been scrapped from the card.