UFC 1 alum Art Jimmerson, known to MMA fans as the man who wore a single boxing glove in a UFC fight, has died.
Jimmerson, a 1983 National Golden Gloves Middleweight champion with a pro record of 33-18, died on Wednesday at age 60, his family has announced. No cause of death has been revealed for the retired fighter.
“Dear Friends and Family, it is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Art Jimmerson,” wrote Christian Jimmerson, Art’s son, in a social media posting. “Art was known for his love of God, family, and boxing. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. A funeral service to celebrate Art’s life will be announced. We are grateful for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time. Please keep Art and his family in your thoughts and prayers.”
Jimmerson lost his lone MMA contest at UFC 1 on November 13, 1993 in Denver, Colorado after being submitted by UFC Hall of Famer Royce Gracie. Jimmerson tapped after Gracie took mount in the fight, in essence losing via position.
At the time, the UFC’s ruleset was bare-bones, and fighters were not actually required to wear gloves to protect their hands. According to UFC co-founder Campbell McLaren, Jimmerson’s decision to wear one glove was made so that the ref could see if he tapped. Jimmerson had apparently been unaware of the serious threat of a takedown and clinching in an MMA fight; he had accepted the UFC 1 bout mainly because he needed $15,000 for a down payment on a house.
Despite what ultimately turned out to be a failed attempt at an MMA crossover, Jimmerson remained a colorful part of MMA history. He had been on an impressive win streak in boxing prior to UFC 1 and returned to the sport after, winning three of his next five bouts before entering a skid that eventually saw him retire in 2002.
