Michael “The Menace”Johnson

Michael Johnson, known as “The Menace,” is an American mixed martial artist competing in the UFC lightweight division. Born June 4, 1986, in St. Louis, Missouri, he stands 5 feet 10 inches tall and fights from a southpaw stance. The UFC lists him as an active lightweight and identifies boxing as his fighting style. As of September 13, 2026, his most recently documented bout was a March 7, 2026, UFC 326 meeting with Drew Dober.

Johnson began training for mixed martial arts in 2007 after playing football and wrestling in college. The UFC identifies Central Methodist University as part of his athletic background and records his early development through The Ultimate Fighter 12, where he represented Team GSP and advanced to the season finale. He made his UFC debut in December 2010 and has remained a long-serving presence in the organization’s lightweight division.

Known for fast, powerful southpaw striking, Johnson has built his reputation through aggressive boxing, athletic movement and a willingness to engage dangerous opponents. He has also described his wrestling and jiu-jitsu as important parts of his evolving game. His UFC career includes notable victories over Tony Ferguson and Dustin Poirier, while his résumé also includes bouts against established lightweights such as Khabib Nurmagomedov, Justin Gaethje and Nate Diaz.