INTRODUCING MMA PROSPECT IAN LUJAN

by Michael Cruz

Guam’s Ian Lujan posing with fans. (courtesy photo)

Name: Ian Lujan

From: Merizo

Fights Out Of: Las Vegas, Nevada

Age: 20

Height: 5’8

Weight: 135

Record: 3-1 Amateur MMA and 4-0 muay thai amateur record

Favorite Chamorro Dish: Chicken kudu everyday especially from mom or grandpa.

How often do you train? I train Monday through Saturday. I practice jiu-jitsu, wrestling, boxing, and muay-thai. I’m in the gym at least twice a day at five times a week and Saturday is dedicated to running hills.

When did you start training? I met Diego Sanchez from the UFC in 2005 and he recommended Cobra Kai jiu-jitsu. I’ve been training jiu-jitsu since 2005 under Simpson Go. I’m currently a purple belt in BJJ. My brother Isaac Lujan (Nationally Ranked Amateur Boxer at 141 lbs) and I train with boxing coach Danny Garcia.

Do you have any heroes?  I’m a big fan of BJ Penn. Baby Joe Taimanglo is one of my role models and gave me an opportunity to train with Dominick Cruz from the UFC. My brother Isaac is my favorite boxer. I also wanted say thank you to my family Joaquin and Felomena Lujan from Merizo, Henry and Annie Muna from Santa Rita on my mother’s side, and my late grandpa Joe Susuico from Agat.

Any plans to turn pro? I want to win an amateur title in Tuff-N-Uff. The organization is the premier amateur mma organization in Nevada. Rhonda Rousey, Jon Fitch, and Ryan Couture all competed in the organization. I plan to turn professional in the future.

What is your job while fighting? I work in retail part time which allows more time for training.

Favorite grappling technique: Triangle or transition from triangle to armber.

Favorite striking technique: I like to mix it up with muay-thai and boxing. I enjoy using my hands the best. His overhand right produced the fastest knockout in Tuff-N-Uff history.

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