Michael Earl Russow (born November 9, 1976) is a retired American professional mixed martial artist who competed in the Heavyweight division. Having made his professional debut in 1998, Russow has formerly competed for the UFC, Adrenaline MMA, PRIDE FC, and also participated in the Yarennoka! event in the Saitama Super Arena in Japan. He is perhaps best known for his upset victory over Todd Duffee.

Mixed martial arts career

Background

Russow is from Kankakee, Illinois and was a state wrestling champion in high school for the Heavyweight division. He also attended college at Eastern Illinois University and earned a degree in sociology. His first fight was in 1998.

Ultimate Fighting Championship

Russow signed with the UFC in 2009 and made his debut against Justin McCully at UFC 102. He won via unanimous decision (29–28, 30–26, and 30–27). Russow then defeated Todd Duffee via third round KO at UFC 114. Russow absorbed heavy punishment from Duffee during the course of the fight but hung on late into the third and final round. Russow then connected with a hard straight right hand, taking Duffee and the fans in attendance by surprise. Russow defeated TUF 10 alum and DeathClutch teammate Jon Madsen on March 26, 2011, at UFC Fight Night 24 via TKO; with that win he improved his winning streak to ten. Russow was expected to face Dave Herman on October 8, 2011, at UFC 136. However, the bout was cancelled after Herman failed his preliminary drug test in which he tested positive for marijuana. Russow faced John Olav Einemo on January 28, 2012, at UFC on Fox: Evans vs. Davis and won via unanimous decision (29–28, 29–28, and 30–27). Russow faced Fabrício Werdum on June 23, 2012, at UFC 147. Russow was defeated by Werdum via TKO at 2:28 of round 1. Russow faced Shawn Jordan on January 26, 2013, at UFC on Fox: Johnson vs. Dodson. Despite a strong first round, Russow lost to Jordan by TKO in the second round and was subsequently released from the promotion.

World Series of Fighting

On October 6, 2013, it was announced that Russow has signed with World Series of Fighting. Since his signing with WSOF, Russow retired from MMA.

Personal life

Russow and his wife have a daughter. Russow is also a police officer in his hometown of Chicago.

Championships and accomplishments

Mixed martial arts

Amateur wrestling

Mixed martial arts record