Kevin Lee, known as “The Motown Phenom,” is an American professional mixed martial artist who has competed in the lightweight and welterweight divisions of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).
Born on September 4, 1992, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Lee has made a significant impact in the MMA world with his grappling and striking skills.
Here we have Kevin Lee’s net worth, fight purse, UFC career, and more.
Kevin Lee’s Biography
| Full Name | Kevin Jesse Lee Jr. |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | September 4, 1992 |
| Place of Birth | Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 5’9″ (175 cm) |
| Weight | 171 lbs (77 kg) |
| Reach | 77 inches (196 cm) |
| Stance | Orthodox |
| Fighting Out Of | Las Vegas, Nevada, USA |
| Team | Kill Cliff FC |
| Style | Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu |
Kevin Lee was raised in Detroit, Michigan, and attended Southfield High School. He later enrolled at Grand Valley State University but left to focus on his MMA career. Lee has a background in wrestling, which he has effectively integrated into his MMA fighting style.
Professional Career
Kevin Lee began his professional MMA career in 2012 and quickly made a name for himself by winning the Total Warrior Combat Lightweight Championship in 2013. He made his UFC debut on February 1, 2014, at UFC 169 against Al Iaquinta, although he lost the fight via unanimous decision.
UFC Highlights
Lee’s UFC career includes several notable victories and performances. He secured his first UFC win against Jesse Ronson at The Ultimate Fighter 19 Finale.
Lee went on to achieve a five-fight winning streak from 2016 to 2017, defeating fighters like Francisco Trinaldo and Michael Chiesa, the latter earning him a Performance of the Night bonus.
In October 2017, Lee faced Tony Ferguson for the interim UFC Lightweight Championship at UFC 216 but lost via submission.
Despite setbacks, Lee continued to compete at a high level, including a spectacular knockout victory over Gregor Gillespie at UFC 244, which earned him another Performance of the Night bonus.
In recent years, Lee has faced challenges, including losses to Charles Oliveira and Daniel Rodriguez, and a win against Diego Sanchez at Eagle FC 46.
Kevin Lee’s Net Worth Details
Kevin Lee’s net worth is estimated to be $3 million as of 2025. His earnings are primarily from his MMA career, including fight purses, bonuses, and endorsements.
Fight Purse
| Year | Event | Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | UFC on ESPN | $150,000 |
| 2022 | Eagle FC 46 | $100,000 |
| 2019 | UFC 244 | $200,000 |
Net Worth Growth
| Year | Net Worth |
|---|---|
| 2021 | $1.0 million |
| 2022 | $1.2 million |
| 2023 | $1.5 million |
| 2024 | $2.0 million |
MMA Records
| Result | Opponent | Event | Method | Round | Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Loss | Rinat Fakhretdinov | UFC on ESPN | Submission (Guillotine Choke) | 1 | 0:55 |
| Win | Diego Sanchez | Eagle FC 46 | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 |
| Loss | Daniel Rodriguez | UFC on ESPN | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 |
| Loss | Charles Oliveira | UFC Fight Night | Submission (Guillotine Choke) | 3 | 0:28 |
| Win | Gregor Gillespie | UFC 244 | KO (Head Kick) | 1 | 2:47 |
FAQs
What is Kevin Lee’s fighting style?
Lee is known for his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and wrestling skills.
When did Lee start his professional MMA career?
He began his professional MMA career in 2012.
How many UFC fights has Lee had?
Kevin Lee has had 18 fights in the UFC.
Has Kevin Lee won any UFC bonuses?
Yes, he has received multiple Performance of the Night bonuses.
What is Kevin Lee’s reach?
His reach is 77 inches.
What is Lee’s nickname?
He is known as “The Motown Phenom.”
Where does Kevin Lee train?
He trains at Kill Cliff FC in Las Vegas, Nevada.
