Shine Fight Promotions (Shine Fights) today the addition of two-time UFC veteran Mike Ciesnolevicz to its ever-expanding roster of fighters. The nine-time veteran of the IFL has carved out a reputation for himself as an ultra-tough competitor who is willing to face anyone at anytime. Now part of Shine, Ciesnolevicz is primed to prove he belongs with the best MMA has to offer.
“It’s an honor to bring a well-respected veteran like Mike into the Shine fold,” said Shine Fights COO Jason Chambers. “He is such a tough fighter, and is bound and determined to really make his mark on this sport.”
The six-foot tall Ciesnolevicz made his professional MMA debut in 2003, reeling off seven straight victories. As a result of his early success, he earned an invitation to the then-fledgling International Fight League. There, he faced past and future UFC competitors such as Reese Andy, Andre Gusmao, Alex Schoenauer, and Carmelo Marrero.
After running his record to 16-3-0-1, Ciesnolevicz made his Octagon debut at UFC 95 against Neil Grove. After the fight hit the mat quickly, Ciesnolevicz locked in a heel hook submission, torquing the hold until Grove’s knee popped out of its socket. The tough Brit had refused to tap. Due to this shocking finish, Ciesnolevicz had made a huge impression in his Octagon debut.
In his next UFC bout, Ciesnolevicz suffered a TKO defeat at the hands of Tomas Drwal. He was released from the promotion following this bout, but has earned a submission victory in his only fight since leaving the UFC. Now signed to bolster Shine Fights’ heavyweight division, Ciesnolevicz is ready to show he is truly a force to be reckoned with.
