Deaf UFC fighter with controversial win over Jon Jones gives astounding update on lifelong condition: "I can finally hear my kids’ voices"

A UFC fighter who won a controversial fight against Jon Jones has shared a heartwarming update about overcoming his lifelong hearing loss. Matt Hamill shared on social media that he can now hear for the first time in his life, thanks to cutting-edge digital hearing aids.

In a social media post, he wrote:

"I just got the most powerful digital hearing aids ever made. For the first time in 41 years, I can finally hear my kids’ voices, the sounds of people walking and laughing. I finally heard my mom’s voice and she cried. I’m looking forward to hearing my brother Pat’s voice too. I only hope he doesn’t have a voice like a foghorn. This is awesome although I know it will take time to adapt to all of this. Happy New Year!"

Check out Matt Hamill's post below:

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Hamill’s journey to the UFC is as inspirational as this new chapter. Born completely deaf, he defied the odds to become a high school wrestling star, a three-time National Champion at Rochester Institute of Technology, and a medalist at the Deaflympics.

He entered the UFC in 2006, earning respect for his relentless drive and a controversial win over Jones in 2009 due to a disqualification.

When Matt Hamill called for Jon Jones rematch after rule change legalized 12-to-6 elbows

Matt Hamill reignited his rivalry with Jon Jones by challenging the UFC heavyweight champion to a rematch. The callout followed a recent rule change by the Association of Boxing Commissions (ABC) in July 2024, legalizing the controversial 12-to-6 elbows that led to Jones’ 2009 disqualification against Hamill.

Hamill criticized UFC CEO Dana White and accused him of seeking to erase Jones’ lone defeat. On social media, he proposed a rematch with high stakes:

“Let’s cut this chase… @danawhite – I know you’re desperate to get @jonnybones an undefeated record. I see how you want to profit from that! Is also why you bail him out of all the other things...How about a rematch?! I’ll be happy to fight him for a heavyweight title. If I beat him, I want a UFC belt. Let me know if Stipe Miocic backs out. I’ll take short notice, just remember he already lost to me!”

Check out Matt Hamill's post calling out Jon Jones below:

About the author

Manjit has been an MMA writer at Sportskeeda since the past 3 years, specializing in covering boxing and MMA. Drawing from his past training in MMA, he brings a unique perspective to his reporting at Sportskeeda, culminating in compelling content.

While Conor McGregor holds a special place as his favorite fighter for the sheer legacy that the Irishman has built in MMA, Manjit's appreciation for the sport extends beyond individual athletes.

While writing, Manjit rigorously fact-checks and ensures the credibility of his sources to provide high-quality content for readers.

Outside of work, his interests include football and he is massive photography lover.

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Edited by Anurag Mitra