Local MMA fighter set sights on UFC career
Hunter Thompson (right) recently won at the 559 Fights in Visalia. Photo credit “Nawal kassir – The Visual Knockout”.
Hunter Thompson recently won at 559 Fights
– Paso Robles based mixed martial artist Hunter Thompson competed at the 559 Fights in Visalia on January 24 and won against his opponent Aurelio Reyna. Thompson, who is 23, also earned “Fight of the Night” honors at the event. His sights are set on an undefeated amateur career and an eventual UFC title.
“It was a battle all three rounds,” Thompson said. “[I] got dropped in the first round, but that didn’t discourage me and [I] ended up pulling off the win.”
Thompson’s journey into combat sports began with kickboxing, where he compiled a 5-1 record in IKF point Muay Thai before moving to MMA. His first MMA bout ended in a first round total knockout one minute and five seconds into the match.
Thompson began MMA training when he was 18 and had his first cage fight in March 2024. He is enrolled in the Lakota Sioux Lower Brule Tribe of South Dakota and walks out to “Flag Song” by the Porcupine Singers, which is the tribe’s national anthem.
“I definitely feel my ancestors’ warrior spirit resonate within me as I walk into the cage,” he said.
Thompson gives credit to the support of his mother, Crystal Vos, who helps with meal prepping and recovery. He works full time for DM Builders, owned by Darren Maldonado, noting that “he has done a lot for me in my life and I’m forever grateful for that.”
Thompson, 23, will next compete in 559 Fights on April 18. Photo credit “Nawal Kassir – The Visual Knockout”.
Outside of fighting, Thompson takes part in adrenaline filled activities, such as mountain biking, cliff jumping, and snowboarding. He enjoys going to Pine Street Saloon, The Rodeo, and Pappy McGregor’s, along with visiting Park Cinemas and Alliance Board Company.
One of Thompson’s inspirations is his late father, Damien Thompson, who passed away when he was 15. The loss initially led him down a troubled path, but he found direction through the Grizzly Youth Academy, an experience he credits with changing his life.
“I realized he wouldn’t want that for me…I turned myself around and now I’m thriving,” Thompson said.
Thompson’s career aspirations are to remain undefeated as an amateur, win the 559 Fights title, and eventually compete in the UFC’s bantamweight division. He also hopes to launch his own fight-wear clothing brand.
Looking ahead, Thompson is seeking sponsors for his next fight on April 18. He welcomes support from the Paso Robles community as he continues his journey toward professional MMA success.
“I would like to give a big shout-out to all my coaches and teammates. I wouldn’t be where I am today if it weren’t for those guys and I love them all like family…I’m happy to represent Paso Robles and the 805 and I hope to give back to the community once I achieve my goals, but until then it’s time to work,” Thompson said.
For sponsorship inquiries, Thompson can be reached at (805) 423-7726 or via email at hunterdamien141@gmail.com.
