Stephen Asplund, a Richfield native, has gone from weighing nearly 500 pounds to pursuing a career in mixed martial arts . The former heavyweight in life is now training to become a heavyweight in the ring, shedding an astonishing 300 pounds along the way.
Asplund’s journey began after a difficult period in his life when his weight ballooned to around 500 pounds. Growing up, he had always been a big eater, often consuming multiple servings at meals. His size initially brought him success in high school football, but after graduation, his eating habits spiraled out of control. At his heaviest, Asplund found himself consuming large quantities of junk food and soda while working as a pizza delivery driver.
The turning point came when a friend convinced him to join a gym. Asplund committed to working out five days a week and quickly saw results, losing 180 pounds in just a few months. Motivated by his progress, he continued his efforts, eventually losing a total of 300 pounds.
Inspired by his father’s background in mixed martial arts, Asplund decided to try the sport himself. Despite initial setbacks, including a chipped tooth in his first week of training, he persevered. Within two weeks, he was offered his first fight. Since then, Asplund has won six amateur MMA fights and recently made his professional debut.
Now, Asplund aims to secure a contract with the UFC and make MMA his full-time career. He credits the sport with giving him a new lease on life, believing he wouldn’t have survived past his current age if he had continued on his previous path.
Asplund has an MMA record consisting of 3 wins and 1 loss and he’s with the LFA currently which is owned by the UFC so it’s not a stretch to think he could be signed to either Tuesday Night Contender Series or the UFC.
Beyond his personal goals, Asplund is motivated by his two-year-old daughter, whom he wants to provide for through his fighting career. He hopes his story will inspire others struggling with weight loss, emphasizing that taking the first step is crucial.
Asplund’s transformation is not just physical but also mental. He now finds joy in being able to wear normal-sized clothes and feels confident in his appearance. His journey from obesity to aspiring MMA fighter serves as a powerful testament to the potential for change and the impact of determination and hard work.
