Jeremy Stephens is an accomplished American professional mixed martial artist, bare-knuckle boxer, and professional boxer. He has made a significant impact in the world of mixed martial arts (MMA), competing primarily in the Lightweight and Featherweight divisions.
You can follow Jeremy Stephen’s biography, personal details, career details, wife, net worth, fight purses, career earnings, endorsements, records, achievements, and more here.
Jeremy Stephens’s Biography
| Detail | Information |
| Full Name | Jeremy Stephens |
| Nickname | Lil Heathen |
| Birth Date | May 26, 1986 |
| Height | 5 ft 9 in (175 cm) |
| Weight | 145 lbs (66 kg) |
| Birthplace | Des Moines, Iowa |
| Nationality | American |
| Religion | Christian |
| Turned Professional | 2005 |
| Current Net Worth | $2 million |
| Relationship Status | Married |
| Wife | Cindy Lopez |
| Instagram Profile | @lilheathenmma |
Jeremy Stephens was born on May 26, 1986, in Des Moines, Iowa. He grew up in a challenging environment, as his parents divorced when he was just 8 years old.
This led to a tumultuous childhood where he frequently changed schools and lived in various temporary accommodations, including shelters and his mother’s car.
Early Life
Jeremy Stephens moved to Norwalk, Iowa, after his father was granted custody during his fifth-grade year. Growing up, Stephens was an active child, participating in sports such as baseball and basketball, and he also competed in wrestling.
He attended Norwalk High School, where he excelled in both baseball and wrestling. His grandfather played a crucial role in introducing him to mixed martial arts, encouraging him to pursue wrestling.
Professional Career
Jeremy Stephens began his professional MMA career in 2005, quickly making a name for himself in smaller promotions before joining the UFC in 2007
He debuted in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) on May 26, 2007, at UFC 71, where he faced veteran fighter Din Thomas but lost via second-round armbar submission.
Following this setback, he secured his first UFC victory against Diego Saraiva at UFC 76, winning by unanimous decision.
In 2008, Stephens continued to rise through the ranks, achieving a notable victory over future UFC Lightweight Champion Rafael dos Anjos at UFC 91, where he delivered a stunning knockout that earned him the Knockout of the Night bonus.
After a lengthy tenure in the UFC, Stephens signed with the Professional Fighters League (PFL) in 2022.
He also made his professional boxing debut in 2023 against Jose Aldo, which ended in a draw. Most recently, he has ventured into bare-knuckle boxing, winning his debut match against Jimmie Rivera at BKFC 56.
Wife
Jeremy Stephens is married to Cindy Lopez. The couple tied the knot on September 23, 2017, after Stephens proposed in July 2016. Together, they have 2 daughters.
Jeremy Stephens’s Net Worth Details
Jeremy Stephens’s net worth is estimated to be $2 million as of 2025. This figure reflects his earnings from fight purses, bonuses, and various endorsements throughout his career.
Fight Purses
| Event | Opponent | Purse Amount |
| UFC 71 | Din Thomas | $3,000 |
| UFC Fight Night 12 | Cole Miller | $12,000 |
| UFC 91 | Rafael dos Anjos | $60,000 |
| UFC Fight Night 17 | Joe Lauzon | $20,000 |
| UFC 113 | Sam Stout | $65,000 |
| UFC on FOX 28 | Josh Emmett | $98,000 |
| UFC Fight Night: Makhachev vs. Moises | Mateusz Gamrot | $88,000 |
| BKFC 56 | Jimmie Rivera | $100,000 |
| BKFC 65 | Bobby Taylor | $200,000 |
Career Earnings
Jeremy Stephens’s career earnings are substantial. He has earned over $2 million in fight purses and bonuses throughout his professional career.
This includes performance bonuses for Fight of the Night and Knockout of the Night awards, which have significantly contributed to his overall earnings.
Endorsements
Throughout his career, Jeremy Stephens has secured various endorsements, partnering with brands related to sports apparel, nutrition, and fitness. He is currently associated with Evolve, a health food delivery brand.
Career Records
| Fight Record | Wins | Losses | No Contests |
| Overall Record | 29 | 21 | 1 |
| UFC Record | 18 | 16 | 1 |
Achievements
- Competed in over 30 professional MMA bouts.
- Notable victories against top fighters like Rafael dos Anjos and Gilbert Melendez.
- Earned multiple Fight of the Night and Knockout of the Night bonuses.
- Recognized as a veteran in both the UFC Featherweight and Lightweight divisions.
FAQs
1. For which promotions has Jeremy Stephens competed during his career?
Stephens built a reputation in the UFC, fighting in both lightweight and featherweight divisions for over fifteen years. Later, he competed for the Professional Fighters League (PFL) after departing the UFC.
2. What is Stephens’ professional MMA record and knockout rate?
Stephens has earned over 28 career wins, with more than 19 coming by knockout. He is recognized for his aggressive style, durability, and high finishing rate against top-tier opponents.
3. Against which notable opponents has Stephens fought in MMA?
He faced legends like José Aldo, Donald Cerrone, Gilbert Melendez, Frankie Edgar, Anthony Pettis, and Yair Rodriguez, challenging many of the most well-known names at lightweight and featherweight.
4. What is Stephens’ fighting style and what sets him apart?
Stephens is known for explosive striking, especially heavy hands and devastating uppercuts. He pressures opponents relentlessly, always seeking a finish from the opening round.
5. Which divisions has Stephens competed in and where was he most successful?
Stephens fought much of his career at featherweight and lightweight. He enjoyed highlight victories and multiple bonuses in both weight classes but gained greatest recognition as a featherweight contender.
6. What have been Stephens’ most memorable fights or moments?
Classic wins include knockouts of Josh Emmett, Rafael dos Anjos, and Dennis Bermudez. His fights often earned “Fight of the Night” or “Performance of the Night” for non-stop action and dramatic stoppages.
7. Has Stephens won any post-fight bonuses or UFC honors?
He received numerous UFC bonuses for performance and fight-of-the-night honors, a testament to his entertaining, all-action approach and willingness to engage in wild stand-up wars.
8. How has Stephens handled injuries and setbacks in his fighting career?
Stephens faced various injuries and tough losses, including losing streaks and cut stoppages, but consistently returned to fight top competition and remained a mainstay in major events.
9. What is Stephens’ reputation among coaches, fans, and peers?
He is known for toughness, resilience, and respect for every opponent. Fans and teammates routinely praise his sportsmanship, hard work, and commitment to martial arts values.
10. What are Stephens’ current goals and outlook after competing in the UFC?
Stephens continues fighting at a high level in the PFL, aiming for tournament success. He now focuses on leveraging experience to chase championships and mentor young fighters as a veteran presence.
