The Undeniable “Danger”: The Grit and Heart of Matt Schnell
Matthew Christopher Schnell, better known by his fitting moniker “Danger,” is a true veteran of the brutal flyweight division and a testament to the idea that perseverance and a refusal to quit define a career. Born on January 15, 1990, in Amory, Mississippi, Schnell’s journey began far from the bright lights of Las Vegas. He maximized his talent in regional combat circuits, achieving the distinction of being a Louisiana Golden Gloves champion in boxing and, later, the Legacy FC Flyweight Champion, establishing a reputation as an all-action fighter who is never in a dull bout.
The Student of the Game and the Art of the Finish
Despite his boxing foundation and a black belt in Karate, Matt Schnell’s professional record, which currently stands at 17 wins, 9 losses, and 1 No Contest (17-9-0, 1 NC), tells the story of a remarkably well-rounded martial artist. Over half of his victories have come via submission (nine in total), showcasing his unexpected yet highly effective ground game, which earned him two impressive first-round triangle choke finishes inside the Octagon. Fighting out of the highly respected Fortis MMA in Dallas, Schnell has dedicated his life to continually evolving, training alongside some of the world’s best to maintain his edge in a division notorious for its speed and technical skill. His passion for the complex strategy of MMA is deeply rooted in his life, proving that “Danger” is far more than a flashy nickname; it is a calculated approach to combat.
The Fighter Defined by Resilience
Schnell’s run in the UFC, which began with his appearance on The Ultimate Fighter 24, has been a rollercoaster that truly highlights his resilience. While he has faced some brutal losses, it is his spectacular comeback victories that etch him into the memory of fans. Most famously, his 2022 bout against Su Mudaerji, which earned him a Fight of the Night bonus, saw him take immense damage only to rally dramatically and secure a second-round technical submission, showcasing the heart and grit that few possess. His ability to weather a storm and fight through adversity, even returning from a brief sabbatical and a tough losing streak to secure a win over Jimmy Flick in April 2025, defines his character as a fighter who always answers the bell.
The Ultimate Test: Clash with a Rising Star
Now, at 35, Matt Schnell is set to welcome a highly touted new face to the upper ranks of the division. Schnell is scheduled to face the recently crowned The Ultimate Fighter 33 winner Joseph Morales. This pivotal Flyweight matchup will serve as the co-main event for UFC Fight Night: Bonfim vs. Brown on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas. For Schnell, this is a quintessential veteran vs. prospect matchup. A victory over the hot-streaking Morales is essential to re-establish his footing among the top contenders and prove that the “Danger” he brings remains a formidable test for anyone aspiring to reach the top of the flyweight mountain.
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