Jimi Manuwa, known as the “Poster Boy,” is a retired British-Nigerian mixed martial artist who made a significant impact in the UFC’s light heavyweight division.
With his powerful striking and knockout ability, Manuwa became a fan favorite and a formidable opponent in the Octagon.
This article teaches you about Jimi Manuwa’s net worth, salary, career earnings, contract, stats, wife, career overview, and more.
Jimi Manuwa’s Biography
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jimi Kwaku Manuwa |
| Nickname | Poster Boy |
| Born | February 18, 1980 |
| Age | 44 |
| College | N/A |
| Division | Light heavyweight |
| Nationality | British-Nigerian |
| Height | 6’0″ (182.88 cm) |
| Turned Pro | 2008 |
| Net Worth | Estimated $1-2 million |
| Salary | Varied per fight |
| Relationship Status | Unknown |
| Instagram Profile | @jimi_manuwa |
Early Career
Jimi Manuwa’s journey in mixed martial arts began relatively late compared to many of his peers. Born in Sacramento, California, he moved to Nigeria at age 3 before settling in London at 10.
Manuwa didn’t start training in MMA until he was 28 years old. His natural athleticism and raw power quickly became apparent, and he made his professional debut in 2008.
Manuwa’s early career was marked by a series of impressive knockout victories, showcasing his devastating striking ability and earning him a reputation as a dangerous finisher.
Professional Career
Manuwa’s professional career took off rapidly as he competed in various UK promotions, most notably UCMMA (Ultimate Challenge MMA).
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He became the UCMMA light heavyweight champion and successfully defended his title 5 times, a record for the promotion.
His dominance in the UK circuit caught the attention of the UFC, but Manuwa initially turned down offers, feeling he needed more experience.
In 2012, Manuwa finally signed with the UFC and made his debut against Kyle Kingsbury, winning via TKO.
While he experienced both highs and lows in the Octagon, Manuwa’s explosive style and knockout power always made him a threat in the light heavyweight division.
Jimi Manuwa’s Net Worth Details
As of 2026, Jimi Manuwa’s net worth is estimated to be between $1-2 million.
Contract
Manuwa signed with the UFC in 2012 and remained with the promotion until his retirement in 2019.
Fight Purses
| Event | Opponent | Purse |
|---|---|---|
| UFC Fight Night 153 | Aleksandar Rakić | $150,000 |
| UFC 231 | Thiago Santos | $120,000 |
| UFC Fight Night 127 | Jan Błachowicz | $85,000 |
| UFC 214 | Volkan Oezdemir | $110,000 |
| UFC Fight Night 107 | Corey Anderson | $160,000 |
| UFC 204 | Ovince Saint Preux | $140,000 |
Endorsements
- Reebok Sponsorship: As part of the UFC’s deal with Reebok, Manuwa would have received sponsorship pay based on his tenure with the promotion.
- PETA Campaign: Manuwa participated in PETA’s “Ink Not Mink” anti-fur campaign in 2014.
- Local Gym Partnerships: Manuwa owned and operated Lion’s Pride MMA gym in Croydon, which likely provided additional income and sponsorship opportunities.
Career Records
| Opponent | Result | Event | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aleksandar Rakić | Loss | UFC Fight Night 153 | 2019 |
| Thiago Santos | Loss | UFC 231 | 2018 |
| Jan Błachowicz | Loss | UFC Fight Night 127 | 2018 |
| Volkan Oezdemir | Loss | UFC 214 | 2017 |
| Corey Anderson | Win | UFC Fight Night 107 | 2017 |
| Ovince Saint Preux | Win | UFC 204 | 2016 |
| Anthony Johnson | Loss | UFC 191 | 2015 |
| Alexander Gustafsson | Loss | UFC Fight Night 37 | 2014 |
Manuwa finished his professional MMA career with a record of 17 wins and 6 losses, with 15 of his wins coming by way of knockout.
FAQs
1. Who is Jimi Manuwa?
Jimi Manuwa, born Babajimi Abiola Manuwa on February 18, 1980, is a retired British-Nigerian mixed martial artist. He competed in the light heavyweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Known for his knockout power and striking skills, Manuwa earned the nickname “Poster Boy” during his career.
2. What is Jimi Manuwa’s professional MMA record?
Jimi Manuwa’s professional MMA record stands at 17 wins and 6 losses. Of his 17 victories, 15 came by knockout or technical knockout, 1 by submission, and 1 by decision. This impressive record includes a 95% finish rate, showcasing his ability to end fights decisively.
3. When did Jimi Manuwa start his MMA career?
Jimi Manuwa began training in MMA in 2007 at the age of 27, which is considered a relatively late start in the sport. He made his professional MMA debut on July 26, 2008, winning his first fight by TKO in the first round.
4. What championships did Jimi Manuwa hold during his career?
Before joining the UFC, Jimi Manuwa was the UCMMA Light Heavyweight Champion. He won this title in his third fight with the promotion and successfully defended it five times, which is more than any other champion in the company’s history.
5. When did Jimi Manuwa join the UFC?
Jimi Manuwa signed with the UFC in July 2012, after initially turning down a contract offer a few years earlier. He made his UFC debut on September 29, 2012, at UFC on Fuel TV 5, where he defeated Kyle Kingsbury by TKO due to doctor stoppage after two rounds.
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