Making The Jump: 5 Names Who Found Success In Both Wrestling & MMA

Tom Lawlor

MMA Record: 10-6-0-1

There are some individuals in mixed martial arts that exude a personality that’s similar to the larger-than-life characters found in professional wrestling. Lawlor may be best known for his time in the UFC where he put together a 6-5 record in eight years with the organization.

What is not as well known is that Lawlor started as a professional wrestler before entering the land of mixed martial arts. He spent time on the independent circuit throughout Florida and even tried out for the WWE while he was a part of Deep South Wrestling. He returned to professional wrestling when he left MMA in 2016. It is during this second run that he’s gained most of the recognition in the industry that’s come his way in recent years.

Lawlor has been featured across many independent promotions, many of which utilize his shoot-style wrestling to put on matches that simulate the action brought out during his run in MMA. He’s competed against some well-known names in the industry including Bobby Fish, Jeff Cobb, another other former fighters like Matt Riddle and Dan Severn.

What makes Lawlor such an intriguing competitor is that he has a very strong understanding of ring psychology and the importance of character building in professional wrestling. In many ways, he showed these abilities when he was a part of MMA as well. He frequently dressed up as other fighters and characters to entertain fans during weigh-ins or walking to the cage. One of the most memorable moments came when he dressed up as The Shock Master to the elation of many professional wrestling and MMA fans.

Lawlor may not make it to the biggest stages of professional wrestling, but he’s a name that will entertain across the independent circuit for a long time to come. His match against Walter during WrestleMania 34 weekend is a match that garnered a lot of praise and is well worth the re-watch.