Rashad Evans, known as “Suga,” is a prominent figure in the world of mixed martial arts (MMA). His journey from a young wrestler to a UFC champion is inspiring and showcases his dedication and talent.
In this article, you will learn about Rashad Evans’s net worth, salary, career earnings, contract, stats, wife, career overview, and more.
Rashad Evans’s Biography
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Rashad Anton Evans |
| Nickname | Suga |
| Date of Birth | September 25, 1979 |
| Birthplace | Niagara Falls, New York |
| Height | 5′ 11″ (1.80 m) |
| Weight Class | Light Heavyweight |
| Children | Tahja, Nia, Rashad Jr., and one son born in 2015 |
| Spouse | LaToya Evans (married 2007, divorced 2012) |
Rashad Evans was born on September 25, 1979, in Niagara Falls, New York.
Growing up in a challenging environment, he developed resilience and determination that would later define his career in MMA.
Early Career
After high school, Evans continued his wrestling career at Niagara County Community College.
In 2000, he won the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) National Championships in the 165-pound weight class.
He later competed at Michigan State University, where he became an NCAA Division I All-American.
Professional Career
Rashad Evans began his professional MMA career in 2003. He gained national recognition by winning Season 2 of The Ultimate Fighter, a reality TV series that showcased up-and-coming fighters.
Competing as a heavyweight, Evans defeated Brad Imes in the finale via split decision. This victory earned him a 3-year contract with the UFC.
After several years of competition, Evans retired from professional fighting in 2018.
Wife
Rashad Evans was married to LaToya Evans in 2007, but they separated in 2012. He has 3 children: Tahja, Nia, and Rashad Jr. He also welcomed another son in 2015.
Evans is known for being a dedicated father and often shares moments with his children on social media.
Rashad Evans’s Net Worth Details
Rashad Evans’s net worth is estimated to be $8 million as of 2025.
Fight Purses
| Event | Date | Opponent | Purse | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Ultimate Fighter 2 | 2005 | Brad Imes | Six-figure deal | 3-year UFC contract and a new car |
| UFC 108 | January 2, 2010 | Thiago Silva | $375,000 | Includes $175,000 win bonus |
| UFC 114 | May 29, 2010 | Quinton “Rampage” Jackson | $435,000 | Includes a $185,000 win bonus |
| UFC 156 | February 2, 2013 | Antonio Rogerio Nogueira | $300,000 | No win bonus noted |
| UFC 167 | November 16, 2013 | Chael Sonnen | Part of the $1.641M payroll with GSP |
Endorsements
Throughout his career, Evans has partnered with various brands, enhancing his income through endorsements.
Notable Endorsements:
- Nike
- Monster Energy
- Reebok
Fight Stats
| Date | Opponent | Result | Method | Round | Time | Event |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 28, 2022 | Gabriel Checco | W | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | EFC 44 |
| Jun 09, 2018 | Anthony Smith | L | KO (Knee) | 1 | 0:53 | UFC 225 |
| Aug 05, 2017 | Sam Alvey | L | Decision (Split) | 3 | 5:00 | UFC Fight Night 114 |
| Mar 04, 2017 | Daniel Kelly | L | Decision (Split) | 3 | 5:00 | UFC 209 |
| Apr 16, 2016 | Glover Teixeira | L | KO (Punches) | 1 | 1:48 | UFC on Fox 19 |
| Oct 03, 2015 | Ryan Bader | L | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | UFC 192 |
| Nov 16, 2013 | Chael Sonnen | W | TKO (Punches) | 1 | 4:05 | UFC 167 |
| Jun 15, 2013 | Dan Henderson | W | Decision (Split) | 3 | 5:00 | UFC 161 |
| Feb 02, 2013 | Antonio Rogerio Nogueira | L | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | UFC 156 |
| Apr 21, 2012 | Jon Jones | L | Decision (Unanimous) | 5 | 5:00 | UFC 145 |
| Jan 28, 2012 | Phil Davis | W | Decision (Unanimous) | 5 | 5:00 | UFC on Fox 2 |
| Aug 06, 2011 | Tito Ortiz | W | TKO (Knee and Punches) | 2 | 4:48 | UFC 133 |
| May 29, 2010 | Quinton Jackson | W | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | UFC 114 |
| Jan 02, 2010 | Thiago Silva | W | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | UFC 108 |
| May 23, 2009 | Lyoto Machida | L | KO (Punches) | 2 | 3:57 | UFC 98 |
| Dec 27, 2008 | Forrest Griffin | W | TKO (Punches) | 3 | 2:46 | UFC 92 |
| Sep 06, 2008 | Chuck Liddell | W | KO (Punch) | 2 | 1:51 | UFC 88 |
| Nov 17, 2007 | Michael Bisping | W | Decision (Split) | 3 | 5:00 | UFC 78 |
| Jul 07, 2007 | Tito Ortiz | D | Draw (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | UFC 73 |
| Jan 25, 2007 | Sean Salmon | W | KO (Head Kick) | 2 | 1:06 | UFC Fight Night 8 |
| Sep 23, 2006 | Jason Lambert | W | KO (Punches) | 2 | 2:22 | UFC 63 |
| Jun 28, 2006 | Stephan Bonnar | W | Decision (Majority) | 3 | 5:00 | UFC Fight Night 5 |
| Apr 06, 2006 | Sam Hoger | W | Decision (Split) | 3 | 5:00 | UFC Fight Night 4 |
Career Records
| Record | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Fights | 29 |
| Wins | 20 |
| Losses | 8 |
| Draws | 1 |
| UFC Light Heavyweight Championship | 1 Title Win |
| Fight of the Night Awards | 2 |
| Knockout of the Night Awards | 2 |
| Takedowns Landed in UFC | 50 |
FAQs
1. What is Rashad Evans’s nationality and which divisions did she compete in?
Evans is an American mixed martial artist who competed mainly in the light heavyweight division, with select bouts at heavyweight, earning respect for her athleticism and adaptability.
2. How did Evans begin her MMA career and rise to UFC prominence?
She first gained recognition by winning Season 2 of The Ultimate Fighter as a heavyweight before moving to light heavyweight, where she quickly rose into UFC title contention.
3. What is Evans’s greatest achievement in the UFC?
Evans captured the UFC light heavyweight championship by defeating Forrest Griffin and successfully defended her spot among the division’s elite with wins over top contenders and former champions.
4. Who are some notable opponents Evans faced during her UFC career?
She fought and defeated well-known names like Chuck Liddell, Forrest Griffin, Quinton “Rampage” Jackson, Tito Ortiz, Michael Bisping, and Chael Sonnen, building an impressive resume.
5. What is Evans’s fighting style and her key strengths in the octagon?
Evans used her NCAA Division I wrestling background as a base, combined with sharp boxing, speed, tactical movement, and explosive knockout power in both hands.
6. What accolades or milestones did Evans achieve in the sport?
She became the second African American UFC champion, won several Fight of the Night and Knockout of the Night bonuses, and is recognized as a Hall of Famer for her impact on MMA.
7. Did Evans face setbacks or notable challenges in her fighting career?
She dealt with serious knee injuries, losing streaks late in her career, and tough matchups with future champions, but remained respected for her grit and sportsmanship.
8. Has Evans contributed to the sport outside of fighting?
Evans works as an MMA analyst for major networks, co-hosts podcasts, mentors young fighters, and actively works to elevate the sport’s professionalism and accessibility.
9. What is Evans’s reputation among coaches, teammates, and analysts?
She is praised for her discipline, work ethic, mentoring, and leadership, with coaches valuing her ability to adapt, and fighters respecting her championship pedigree.
10. What are Evans’s post-retirement goals and ongoing contributions to MMA?
Evans continues to shape MMA as a broadcaster, gym owner, and role model, focused on developing the next generation of athletes and promoting martial arts values globally.
