UFC veteran Derek Brunson recently put his grappling skills to the test against an unlikely challenger when a talented high school wrestler stepped into his gym with ambitions of earning a quick thousand dollars.
The former middleweight contender known for his collegiate wrestling background as a three-time All-American offered up the substantial cash prize to anyone who could successfully take him down. Enter Liam English, a promising young wrestler with his sights set on becoming New York state champion in 2026.
What unfolded was a compelling display of technique versus experience that had fans excited across social media. English proved he belonged on the mat with a seasoned professional, utilizing skilled movement and crisp technique that genuinely tested Brunson’s defensive abilities.
“This tough high school wrestler came by my gym and took my $1,000 takedown challenge,” Brunson shared on social media. “He almost got me. I had to submit him for his efforts! The kid can wrestle, he’ll be a Division 1 program next year.”
The encounter showcased English’s impressive duck-under technique, a move that caught even the experienced UFC veteran off guard. Fans were quick to acknowledge the teenager’s skill level, with many noting how the young wrestler managed to put Brunson in genuinely precarious positions.
“Yeah he was slick,” Brunson admitted when discussing English’s technique. “The kid was Liam English.”
English’s performance demonstrated the quality of wrestling talent emerging from high school programs across the country. For Brunson, the session served as both entertainment and a reminder of his own wrestling roots. The veteran has maintained his connection to the wrestling community throughout his MMA career.
While English may not have claimed the prize money, he certainly earned recognition and a valuable experience.
