Cody Durden

When and why did you start training for fighting? I started fighting in Atlanta, Georgia in 2014.  I grew up fighting. I had three scholarships after winning two state championships in 2009 in Georgia high school. I had a kid right after I got out of school, so I had  to start working instead of school. I ended up going to a fight gym to check it out. Now I’m on top of the world. The rest is history. 

What professional titles have you held? King of Sparta 8-man tournament flyweight champion, Valor Fighting Championships bantamweight champion.

Any accomplishments in amateur combat sports? 5-1 record 2x state champion in wrestling in Georgia.

What are your current ranks in martial arts? I’m a black belt in wrestling (life-long competitor mindset) and I’ve earned my Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt through years of grind and mat time. Every stripe came from hard rounds, not shortcuts. 16 years on the mats give or take. 

Any belts/ranks in striking disciplines? 4-0 in pro boxing 

What has been your toughest fight to date and why? Chris Gutierrez was my UFC debut. It was my second fight in two weeks up a weight class. I took the fight on six days’ notice and I fought him to a draw. he was a lot bigger than me. After that fight, I decided I needed to go to my weight class which was 125!

Who is your favorite fighter and why? I’ve always respected guys like Justin Gaejthe/Dustin Poirier. The discipline, the professionalism, and how they carried thereselves as a champions. They proved you can dominate and still stay humble.

Do you have any heroes outside of fighting? My dad. Blue-collar work ethic. No excuses. That mindset shaped me more than anything. I also respect first responders and military members — people who serve without looking for recognition. They guys who put it all on the line for us everyday.

Is there a cause that you want to use your platform for? I want to be an example for kids who grow up without much. You don’t need perfect circumstances — you need discipline and belief. If I can show small-town kids it’s possible, that matters to me.

Beyond a championship and money, what motivates you? Legacy. My family’s last name. When it’s all said and done, I want people to say I maximized everything God gave me. Money fades. Respect doesn’t. You have to give it your all! 
What was your job before you started fighting? Construction worker 

Personal Life / Background: Married to my awesome wife Brittany Durden; I have two amazing kids - Carson and Jaylynn. My wife and I also have a French bulldog named Fiona - She is our baby! I love to hunt, fish, and train to WIN. Last year I shot the GA state record Turkey. In my spare time, I mainly spend it with my family and friends making core memories. I am currently working on opening up my own gym with two of my awesome friends. It is a dream of mine to be able to coach others and give back to my craft / community.