Benoit Saint-Denis, who also goes by the moniker "God of War," is one of the rising prospects in the lightweight division (155 lbs) of the UFC. Saint-Denis was born in Nimes, France on December 15, 1995, and has earned a reputation for his aggressive grappling and outstanding finishing abilities. As of May 9, 2025, the French native currently holds a pro record of 13-3-0 (1NC) with all of his wins coming via a knockout or submission.
He made his UFC debut on October 30, 2021, and suffered a decision loss to Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos in his first bout. Saint-Denis turned the tide around and has been on a tear ever since, winning five out of his next six fights, including victories over top prospects Ismael Bonfim and Thiago Moisés. Denis is scheduled to return in a major bout against Kyle Prepolec at UFC 315 on May 10, 2025.
Benoit Saint-Denis Military Background
Before signing with the UFC, Benoit Saint-Denis was serving in the 1st Marine Infantry Paratroopers Regiment, which is a unit of the French Army Special Forces Command. He was a French Special Air Service operator, serving during the war in Mali and fighting against terrorist groups. He was decorated with the Medal of the Nation's Gratitude and the Combatant's Cross in September 2017. He left the army in March 2019 after five years of service.
The lightweight fighter also sports a tattoo of the Templar Cross on his chest, which represents his role in providing security for high-ranking officials, including former French president Francois Hollande, during his mission in Mali.
Benoit Saint-Denis Early Career
Benoit Saint-Denis began his combat sports journey in 2017 while serving in the French Special Forces. He initially trained in kickboxing with Stéphane Susperregui and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) with Christophe Savoca, using these disciplines to improve his SAS close combat skills. In BJJ, Saint-Denis competed in various regional and national tournaments, achieving notable success. He won titles at the West Zone Championship and the IBJJF Paris International Open in both the Gi and no-Gi divisions as a blue belt.
In September 2017, he transitioned to mixed martial arts (MMA), participating in the Invictus XV amateur tournament. After winning all three of his matches, including two by submission, he began considering a professional career.
FAQs on Benoit Saint-Denis past profession
A. Yes, Benoit Saint-Denis served in the French military for five years and left the forces in 2019.
A. Before being a professional MMA fighter, Benoit Saint-Denis was serving in the 1st Marine Infantry Paratroopers Regiment, which is a unit of the French Army Special Forces Command.
A. As of May 2025, Benoit Saint Denis is 29 years old.
A. Benoit Saint-Denis holds a professional MMA record of 13 wins, 3 losses, and 1 no-contest.
