A memorable contestant from the first Ultimate Fighting Championship show has died at the age of 60.
Art Jimmerson became boxing’s signature fighter at UFC 1 in 1993, famously wearing one glove when facing Royce Gracie. This earned him the nickname “One Glove,” and even though he only competed in the sport of MMA once, it was his most memorable appearance. Gracie, who is about 20 pounds lighter, defeated Jimerson, taking 2 minutes and 18 seconds into the match. ESPN, the UFC’s broadcast partner, reported that Jimerson passed away on Wednesday, according to Jimerson’s daughter. His son also confirmed Jimerson’s death on social media.
“Looking back on it, it’s funny, but I had no idea,” Jimerson told Sherdog about his match with Gracie in 2009. “But I said, ‘No problem,’ because it only takes one punch.”
Jimerson continued, “I’m not saying I was young and stupid. I’m just always up for a challenge. I don’t want people to think I’m a punk. When I made the offer, I thought, “This will be easy.” What can a man do to me when he knows how hard I can hit? But he was on a whole different level…I had never heard of Royce Gracie. I didn’t know what kind of person he was as a fighter. ”
Before and after getting into MMA, Jimerson was a boxer and trainer. Jimerson, a St. Louis native, amassed a professional record of 33 wins, 18 losses, and 17 knockouts in Sweet His Science during his career from 1985 to 2002. After retiring from his active career, Jimerson turned his attention to coaching. The former Golden Gloves champion eventually became the head boxing coach at the UFC Gym in Torrance, California.
Above all, Jimerson told Sherdog that he is a man of faith who loves his family and always strives to help others.
“I fear God. I’m saved. I try to live according to the Bible, I’m a hard-working man, I love taking care of my family, and I love a lot of people.”
