Why is Li Jingliang called The Leech?

Li Jingliang, also known as "The Leech," is one of the most renowned Chinese mixed martial artists competing in the UFC's Welterweight Division (170 lbs). Jingliang was born on March 20, 1988, in Xinjiang, China, and has been active professionally since 2007. He made his UFC debut on May 24, 2014, and quickly built a reputation for being an aggressive striker and submission artist, earning 10 knockout wins and four submission wins in his professional career.

The 36-year-old welterweight has had a rollercoaster ride of ups and downs throughout his UFC journey. In January 2021, Jingliang had a highlight-reel knockout of Santiago Ponzinibbio. He also tested his mettle against top-tier opposition, including having lost via submission to the undefeated Khamzat Chimaev in October 2021 before being dealt a controversial split-decision defeat at the hands of Daniel Rodriguez in September 2022. Jingliang is set for his octagon return on August 18, 2024, at UFC 305, against Carlos Prates of Brazil. Without having thrown a single strike in more than a year and a half, as he was out of action due to a spine injury, this fight holds a lot of weight, as "The Leech" is once again out to prove his place in the welterweight division.

Li Jingliang Nickname

Li Jingliang is nicknamed ‘The Leech’, which truly characterizes his fighting style of relentless pressure and elite grappling skills. Just like a leech clings to its target, Jingliang is known for latching onto opponents, especially in close-quarter combat. He excels at applying pressure and controlling the fight.

This is an appropriate nickname for the welterweight fighter because he wears his opponents down with his aggressive and suffocating approach in the octagon. In addition to Jingliang’s wrestling and Sanda background, his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu makes him especially dangerous if he can latch onto opponents, true to his leech-like characteristics in combat.

Li Jingliang UFC Record

As of August 2024, Li Jingliang holds a UFC record of 11 wins and six losses in 17 outings (11-6-0). Overall, he maintains a professional record of 19 wins and 8 losses (19-8-0). Of his victories, ten have come by knockout, four by way of submission, and five via decision.