UFC pioneer and former professional boxer Jimmerson Art died on Wednesday at age 60, his family announced.
Jimmerson’s daughter confirmed his death to ESPN, and his son, Christian Jimmerson, also announced the news on the social networks.
Dear friends and family, it is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Art Jimmerson,” Christian wrote. “Art was known for his love of God, family and boxing. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. A funeral service will be announced to celebrate Art’s life. 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 competed in UFC 1 in 1993, making a lasting memory as the only fighter to compete in the Octagon wearing a boxing glove. As a result, he earned the nickname “One Glove” after his only UFC fight, which was against UFC Hall of Famer Royce Gracie in the quarterfinals of UFC 1.
“One Glove” intended to use his gloved hand to work the jab and prepare his powerful strikes with his bare right hand in the fight against Gracie. Additionally, Jimmerson wanted to protect his hand for a boxing match a few months later.
Jimmerson lost the fight via submission to the Brazilian jiu-jitsu legend, but became an unforgettable figure from the early days of the UFC for his unique approach in his only appearance in MMA. Although he initially struggled to deal with the jokes that followed, he adopted his new nickname over time.
As a professional boxer, Jimmerson record went 33-18, including 17 knockout wins, from 1985-2002. He brought a 15-fight boxing win streak with him into his only UFC appearance in November 1993, and then returned to the ring two months later following his submission loss to Gracie.
Following his career in combat sports as a fighter, Jimmerson passed on his knowledge of the sweet science by becoming a personal boxing trainer and teaching at the UFC GYM in Torrance, California.
