Jeremy Stephens

Stephens was born in Des Moines, Iowa, on May 26, 1986, and came from a broken home. When he was eight years old, Stephens parents divorced and he constantly switched between schools while also living in various apartments, shelters, and even in his mother's car before moving to Norwalk, Iowa, with his father, who was granted custody of Stephens when he was in the fifth grade. Growing up, Stephens played baseball, basketball, and also competed in wrestling. Stephens attended Norwalk High School where he was a standout in baseball and wrestling, having returned to wrestling during his senior year. Stephens was introduced to mixed martial arts by his grandfather who had also originally persuaded Stephens to compete in wrestling. While beginning his career in mixed martial arts, Stephens looked up to and later became friends with fellow Des Moines native Josh Neer.{{Cite web |url=http://www.lilheathenmma.com/about/ |title=About |access-date=2013-11-11 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100501215053/http://www.lilheathenmma.com/about/ |archive-date=2010-05-01 |url-status=dead }}

At age 16, Stephens began mixed martial arts as an amateur and began full-time training at the age of 18. Stephens was the UGC and MCC Lightweight Champion.{{cite web|url=http://www.ufc.com/JeremyStephens#Bio |title=Jeremy Stephen's UFC.com Bio |access-date=February 8, 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090131101459/http://www.ufc.com/jeremystephens |archive-date=January 31, 2009 }}

Stephens was defeated via second round armbar submission in his UFC debut against veteran Din Thomas at UFC 71 on May 26, 2007.

His first win in the UFC was against Diego Saraiva at UFC 76 via unanimous decision.

Jeremy then scored his second win inside the Octagon after beating Cole Miller via second-round TKO at UFC Fight Night 12.

At the finale of The Ultimate Fighter 7, Jeremy took on former trainer and friend Spencer Fisher. Stephens lost via unanimous decision.

After the loss he rebounded with an emphatic come from behind knockout victory over BJJ black belt and future UFC Lightweight Champion, Rafael dos Anjos at UFC 91. He was out-grappled the first two rounds but in the third came out swinging and landed a huge uppercut on dos Anjos that knocked him unconscious. This win earned him the $60,000 Knockout of the Night award.{{Cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2008/11/ufc-90-bonuses-riley-gurgel-stephens-and-hazelett-each-earn-60k|title=UFC 91 bonuses: Riley, Gurgel, Stephens and Hazelett each earn $60K|publisher=mmajunkie.usatoday.com|author=MMA Junkie Staff|date=2008-11-16|access-date=2024-09-10}}

Stephens next stepped in as a late replacement for Hermes Franca against Joe Lauzon on February 7, 2009, at UFC Fight Night 17. Lauzon defeated Stephens with an armbar late in the second round.

Then on April 1, 2009, at UFC Fight Night: Condit vs Kampmann, Stephens was out-wrestled by Gleison Tibau and lost his second straight fight via unanimous decision.

Stephens was expected to return to the octagon on September 16, 2009, at UFC Fight Night: Diaz vs. Guillard against UFC newcomer Ronnys Torres. However, Torres sustained an injury during training and was replaced by Justin Buchholz. Stephens defeated Buchholz after landing several big strikes and opening up a deep gash on Buchholz's forehead, forcing the doctor to stop the fight midway through the first round. This win earned him a $30,000 Knockout of the Night award.{{Cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2009/09/ufc-fight-night-19-fighters-salaries-nate-quarry-tops-events-476000-payroll|title=UFC Fight Night 19 fighters salaries: Nate Quarry tops event's $476,000 payroll|publisher=mmajunkie.usatoday.com|author=MMA Junkie Staff|date=2009-09-21|access-date=2024-09-10}}

Stephens was expected to face Nik Lentz on January 11, 2010, at UFC Fight Night 20.{{cite web |url=http://mmajunkie.com/news/16565/jeremy-stephens-not-efrain-esudero-faces-nik-lentz-at-ufc-fight-night-20.mma |title=Jeremy Stephens, not Efrain Escudero, likely faces Nik Lentz at UFC Fight Night 20 | MMAjunkie.com |access-date=2009-10-21 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091024082128/http://mmajunkie.com/news/16565/jeremy-stephens-not-efrain-esudero-faces-nik-lentz-at-ufc-fight-night-20.mma |archive-date=2009-10-24 }} Jeremy Stephens, not Efrain Escudero, likely faces Nik Lentz at UFC Fight Night 20] However, Stephens suffered a cut and was forced to pull out of the fight.

Stephens defeated Sam Stout via split decision on May 8, 2010, at UFC 113. He won the fight via split decision. This win earned him a $65,000 Fight of the Night award.{{Cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2010/05/ufc-113-bonuses-rua-belcher-stephens-and-stout-earn-65k-awards|title=UFC 113 bonuses: Rua, Belcher, Stephens and Stout earn $65K awards|publisher=mmajunkie.usatoday.com|author=MMA Junkie Staff|date=2010-05-09|access-date=2024-09-10}}

Stephens lost to Melvin Guillard on September 25, 2010, at UFC 119{{cite news|url=http://mmajunkie.com/news/19444/melvin-guillard-vs-jeremy-stephens-targeted-for-ufc-119-main-card-in-indy.mma |title=Melvin Guillard vs. Jeremy Stephens targeted for UFC 119 main card in Indy |publisher=mmajunkie.com |access-date=2010-06-07 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100609093704/http://mmajunkie.com/news/19444/melvin-guillard-vs-jeremy-stephens-targeted-for-ufc-119-main-card-in-indy.mma |archive-date=2010-06-09 }} via split decision.

Stephens faced Marcus Davis on January 1, 2011, at UFC 125. After likely losing the first two rounds, Stephens then came out more aggressive in the third round and caught Davis with a counter punch resulting in a KO win. This win earned him a $60,000 Knockout of the Night award.{{Cite web|url=https://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/mma-steve-cofield/ufc-125-fireworks-stephens-steals-win-knocking-davis--mma.html|title=UFC 125 fireworks: Stephens steals a win by knocking Davis stiff in the third|publisher=sports.yahoo.com|author=Steve Cofield|date=2011-01-02|access-date=2024-09-07}}

Stephens was expected to face Jonathan Brookins on June 4, 2011, at The Ultimate Fighter 13 Finale.{{cite news |url=http://mmajunkie.com/news/22494/jeremy-stephens-vs-jonathan-brookins-likely-for-the-ultimate-fighter-13-finale.mma |title=Jeremy Stephens vs. Jonathan Brookins likely for The Ultimate Fighter 13 Finale |publisher=mmajunkie.com |access-date=2011-02-16 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110218085410/http://mmajunkie.com/news/22494/jeremy-stephens-vs-jonathan-brookins-likely-for-the-ultimate-fighter-13-finale.mma |archive-date=2011-02-18 }} However, Brookins was forced from the bout with an injury and replaced by Danny Downes.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/news/23554/downes-replaces-injured-brookins-at-the-ultimate-fighter-13-finale.mma|title=Downes replaces injured Brookins at The Ultimate Fighter 13 Finale|publisher=mmajunkie.com|date=May 10, 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110513232628/http://mmajunkie.com/news/23554/downes-replaces-injured-brookins-at-the-ultimate-fighter-13-finale.mma|archive-date=May 13, 2011}} Stephens defeated Downes via unanimous decision after dominating all three rounds.

Stephens faced Anthony Pettis on October 8, 2011, at UFC 136.{{cite web|url=http://www.mmamania.com/2011/7/16/2279302/ufc-136-anthony-pettis-vs-jeremy-stephens-announced-for-oct-8-in|title=UFC 136: Anthony Pettis vs Jeremy Stephens announced for Oct. 8 in Houston, Texas |publisher=mmamania.com |date=July 16, 2011}} Pettis defeated Stephens via split decision (29-28, 28–29, 29-28).

Stephens replaced an injured Yves Edwards against Donald Cerrone on May 15, 2012, at UFC on Fuel TV: Korean Zombie vs. Poirier{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/news/27603/edwards-out-stephens-again-against-cerrone-at-ufc-on-fuel-tv-3.mma |title=Edwards out, Stephens in against Cerrone at UFC on FUEL TV 3 |publisher=MMAjunkie.com |date=February 27, 2012 |access-date=February 27, 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120229050953/http://mmajunkie.com/news/27603/edwards-out-stephens-again-against-cerrone-at-ufc-on-fuel-tv-3.mma |archive-date=February 29, 2012 }} He lost the fight via unanimous decision.

Stephens was expected to face Yves Edwards on October 5, 2012, at UFC on FX 5.{{cite web |url=http://mmajunkie.com/news/30127/yves-edwards-to-meet-jeremy-stephens-at-ufc-on-fx-5-in-minneapolis.mma |title=Yves Edwards to meet Jeremy Stephens at UFC on FX 5 in Minneapolis |publisher=mmajunkie.com |date=August 1, 2012 |access-date=August 1, 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120811212759/http://mmajunkie.com/news/30127/yves-edwards-to-meet-jeremy-stephens-at-ufc-on-fx-5-in-minneapolis.mma |archive-date=August 11, 2012 }} However, the bout was cancelled due to Stephens being arrested on the day of the event for an assault charge that dates back to 2011.{{cite web|url=http://www.mmamania.com/2012/10/5/3463112/ufc-dana-white-explains-jeremy-stephens-jail-situation-story-still-unclear|title=Dana White tries to explain bizarre Jeremy Stephens arrest in Minnesota|publisher=mmamania.com|date=2012-10-05|access-date=2012-10-05|last=Halvatzis Jr.|first=George}} The fight eventually took place on December 8, 2012, at UFC on Fox 5. Edwards won by knockout in the first round, being the first fighter to ever stop Stephens via strikes.

Stephens made his Featherweight debut against promotional newcomer Estevan Payan on May 25, 2013, at UFC 160.{{cite web |url=http://www.mmajunkie.com/news/2013/02/jeremy-stephens-vs-estevan-payan-slated-for-ufc-160-on-may-25|title=Jeremy Stephens vs. Estevan Payan slated for UFC 160 on May 25 |publisher=MMAjunkie.com|date=February 27, 2013}} He won the bloody fight via unanimous decision.

Stephens was expected to face Rony Jason on October 9, 2013, at UFC Fight Night 29.{{cite web|url=http://www.mmaweekly.com/jeremy-stephens-vs-rony-jason-agreed-to-for-unnanounced-ufc-fight-night-in-brazil|title=Jeremy Stephens vs. Rony Jason Agreed to for Unannounced UFC Fight Night in Brazil |publisher=mmaweekly.com|author=Staff|date=2013-08-08|access-date=2013-08-08}} However, Jason pulled out of the bout citing an injury (lumbar hernia).{{cite web|url=http://www.mmajunkie.com/news/2013/09/rony-jason-pulled-from-ufc-fight-night-29-card-against-jeremy-stephens|title=Rony Jason pulled from UFC Fight Night 29 card against Jeremy Stephens |publisher=mmajunkie.com|author=Staff|date=2013-09-15|access-date=2013-09-15}} The bout eventually took place on November 9, 2013, at UFC Fight Night 32.{{cite web |url=http://www.mmajunkie.com/news/2013/09/rony-jason-vs-jeremy-stephens-rescheduled-for-ufc-fight-night-32-in-november|title=Rony Jason vs. Jeremy Stephens rescheduled for UFC Fight Night 32 in November|publisher=MMAjunkie.com|author=Staff|date=2013-09-25|access-date=2013-09-25}} Stephens won via knockout early in the first round.{{cite web |url=http://mmajunkie.com/2013/11/ufc-fight-night-32-results-rony-jason-vs-jeremy-stephens|title=UFC Fight Night 32 results and gif: Jeremy Stephens demolishes Rony Jason|publisher=MMAjunkie.com|author=Ben Fowlkes|date=2013-11-09|access-date=2013-11-09}}

Stephens faced Darren Elkins on January 25, 2014, at UFC on Fox 10.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2013/11/16/darren-elkins-vs-jeremy-stephens-set-for-ufc-on-fox-10-in-chicago/ |title=Darren Elkins vs. Jeremy Stephens set for UFC on FOX 10 in Chicago |publisher=mmajunkie.com |author=Matt Erickson |date=2013-11-16 |access-date=2013-11-16 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131118124233/http://mmajunkie.com/2013/11/16/darren-elkins-vs-jeremy-stephens-set-for-ufc-on-fox-10-in-chicago/ |archive-date=2013-11-18 }} He won the fight via unanimous decision.

Stephens faced Cub Swanson on June 28, 2014, at UFC Fight Night 44.{{cite web|url=http://msn.foxsports.com/ufc/story/cub-swanson-vs-jeremy-stephens-headlines-ufc-fight-night-in-san-antonio-031914|title=Cub Swanson vs. Jeremy Stephens headlines UFC Fight Night in San Antonio |publisher=msn.foxsports.com|author=Damon Martin|access-date=2014-03-18|date=2014-03-18}} He lost the fight via unanimous decision. This fight earned him a $50,000 Fight of the Night award.{{Cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2014/06/ufc-fight-night-44-bonuses-swanson-stephens-borg-carlos-diego-ferreira-get-50000-awards|title=UFC Fight Night 44 bonuses: Swanson, Stephens, Borg, Ferreira get $50,000 awards|publisher=mmajunkie.usatoday.com|author=MMA Junkie Staff|date=2014-06-29|access-date=2024-09-10}}

Stephens next faced Charles Oliveira on December 12, 2014, at The Ultimate Fighter 20 Finale.{{cite web |url=http://www.mmafighting.com/2014/9/30/6874703/jeremy-stephens-to-clash-with-charles-oliveira-at-tuf-20-finale|title=Jeremy Stephens to clash with Charles Oliveira at TUF 20 Finale |publisher=MMAFighting.com |author=MMAFighting Newswire|date=September 30, 2014 |access-date=September 30, 2014}} He lost the fight by unanimous decision.

Stephens faced Dennis Bermudez on July 11, 2015, at UFC 189.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2015/03/dennis-bermudez-vs-jeremy-stephens-booked-for-ufc-189-in-las-vegas|title=Dennis Bermudez vs. Jeremy Stephens booked for UFC 189 in Las Vegas|publisher=mmajunkie.com|author=Staff|access-date=2015-03-31|date=2015-03-31}} He won the fight by TKO due to a flying knee and punches after a close first two rounds.{{cite web |url=http://mmajunkie.com/2015/07/ufc-189-results-jeremy-stephens-knee-plants-dennis-bermudez-for-tko-in-brawl|title=UFC 189 results: Jeremy Stephens knee plants Dennis Bermudez for TKO in brawl|publisher=mmajunkie.com|author=Steven Marrocco|date=2015-07-11|access-date=2015-07-11}}

Stephens faced Max Holloway on December 12, 2015, at UFC 194.{{cite web|url=http://www.sherdog.com/news/news/UFC-194-Update-Max-Holloway-to-Lock-Horns-with-Jeremy-Stephens-in-Las-Vegas-91713|title=UFC 194 update: Max Holloway to lock horns with Jeremy Stephens in Las Vegas|publisher=sherdog.com.com|author=Tristen Critchfield|date=2015-09-03|access-date=2015-09-03}} He lost the fight via unanimous decision.{{cite web |url=http://mmajunkie.com/2015/12/ufc-194-results-max-holloway-tops-jeremy-stephens-for-8th-straight-wants-title-shot|title=UFC 194 results: UFC 194 results: Max Holloway tops Jeremy Stephens for 8th straight, wants title shot|publisher=mmajunkie.com |author=Ben Fowlkes|date=2015-12-12|access-date=2015-12-12}}

Stephens faced former UFC Bantamweight Champion Renan Barão on May 29, 2016, at UFC Fight Night 88.{{cite web|url=http://www.mmamania.com/2016/3/17/11254668/renan-barao-jumps-featherweight-fights-jeremy-stephens-may-29-brazil-mma|title=Renan Barao jumps to featherweight, fights Jeremy Stephens on May 29|author=Jesse Holland|date=2016-03-17|access-date=2016-03-17}} He won the back and forth bout by unanimous decision.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2016/05/ufc-fight-night-88-results-jeremy-stephens-upsets-renan-barao-spoils-ex-champs-jump-to-featherweight|title=UFC Fight Night 88 results: Jeremy Stephens upsets Renan Barao, spoils ex-champ's jump to featherweight|publisher=mmajunkie.com|author=Ben Fowlkes|access-date=2016-05-29|date=2016-05-29}} Both participants were awarded Fight of the Night honors for their performance.{{cite web|url=http://www.sherdog.com/news/news/UFC-Fight-Night-Bonuses-Garbrandt-Stephens-Barao-Collier-Pocket-3650K-Awards-105687|title=UFC Fight Night bonuses: Garbrandt, Stephens, Barao, Collier pocket $50K Awards|publisher=sherdog.com|author=Tristen Critchfield|access-date=2016-05-30|date=2016-05-30}}

Stephens faced former UFC Lightweight Champion Frankie Edgar on November 12, 2016, at UFC 205.{{cite web |url=http://www.mmamania.com/2016/9/15/12932172/ufc-205-chris-weidman-vs-yoel-romero-frankie-edgar-vs-jeremy-stephens-new-york-mma|title=UFC 205: Frankie Edgar vs Jeremy Stephens on tap for Nov. 12 in New York|publisher=mmamania.com |author=Jesse Holland|date=2016-09-15|access-date=2016-09-15}} He lost the fight via unanimous decision.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2016/11/ufc-205-results-frankie-edgar-survives-head-kick-to-outduel-jeremy-stephens-in-thriller|title=UFC 205 results: Frankie Edgar survives head kick to outduel Jeremy Stephens in thriller|publisher=mmajunkie.com|author=Ben Fowkles|date=2016-11-12|access-date=2016-11-12}}

Stephens faced Renato Moicano on April 15, 2017, at UFC on Fox 24.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2017/03/renato-moicano-vs-jeremy-stephens-added-to-ufc-on-fox-24-in-kansas-city|title=Renato Moicano vs. Jeremy Stephens added to UFC on FOX 24 in Kansas City|publisher=mmajunkie.com|author=John Morgan|date=2017-03-01|access-date=2017-03-01}} He lost the fight by split decision.{{cite news|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2017/04/ufc-on-fox-24-results-renato-moicano-split-decision-jeremy-stephens|title=UFC on FOX 24 results: Renato Moicano outpoints Jeremy Stephens for narrow split call|publisher=mmajunkie.com|author=Ben Fowlkes|date=2017-04-15|access-date=2017-04-15}}

Stephens faced Gilbert Melendez on September 9, 2017, at UFC 215.{{cite web|url=https://www.mmamania.com/2017/7/3/15912358/ufc-gilbert-melendez-vs-jeremy-stephens-in-the-works-for-ufc-215-on-sept-9-in-edmonton-mma|title=Gilbert Melendez vs. Jeremy Stephens featherweight fight in the works for UFC 215 on Sept. 9|publisher=mmamania.com|author=Adam Guillen Jr.|date=2017-07-03|access-date=2017-07-03}} He won the fight via unanimous decision.{{Cite news|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2017/09/ufc-215-results-jeremy-stephens-low-kicks-destroy-gilbert-melendez|title=UFC 215 results: Vicious Jeremy Stephens low kicks destroy Gilbert Melendez|date=2017-09-10|publisher=MMAjunkie|access-date=2017-09-10|language=en-US}} Both participants were awarded Fight of the Night honors for their performance.{{Cite news|url=https://www.bloodyelbow.com/2017/9/10/16282694/ufc-215-edmonton-post-fight-bonuses-henry-cejudo-jeremy-stephens-among-50k-winners|title=UFC 215 bonuses: Cejudo, Stephens among $50K winners|publisher=Bloody Elbow|access-date=2017-09-10|archive-date=2018-10-15|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181015003034/https://www.bloodyelbow.com/2017/9/10/16282694/ufc-215-edmonton-post-fight-bonuses-henry-cejudo-jeremy-stephens-among-50k-winners|url-status=dead}}

Stephens faced Doo Ho Choi on January 14, 2018, at UFC Fight Night: Stephens vs. Choi.{{Cite news|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2017/11/30/16722652/jeremy-stephens-vs-doo-ho-choi-ufc-st-louis-fight-card|title=Jeremy Stephens vs. Doo Ho Choi slated for UFC St. Louis|publisher=MMA Fighting|access-date=2017-12-01}} He won the fight via TKO in the second round.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2018/01/ufc-fight-night-124-results-jeremy-stephens-devastates-dooho-choi-tko-st-louis|title=UFC Fight Night 124 results: Jeremy Stephens devastates Dooho Choi with second-round TKO|author=Steven Marrocco|date=2018-01-15|publisher=mmajunkie.com|access-date=2018-01-15}} Both participants were awarded Fight of the Night.{{cite web|url=http://www.sherdog.com/news/news/UFC-Fight-Night-124-Bonuses-Stephens-Choi-Elkins-Reyes-Receive-3650K-Checks-131121|title=UFC Fight Night 124 bonuses: Stephens, Choi, Elkins, Reyes receive $50K checks|author=Tristen Critchfield|date=2018-01-14|publisher=sherdog.com|access-date=2018-01-14}}

Stephens faced Josh Emmett on February 24, 2018, at UFC on Fox 28.{{Cite news|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2018/01/jeremy-stephens-gets-quick-turnaround-meets-josh-emmett-in-ufc-on-fox-28-headliner|title=Jeremy Stephens gets quick turnaround, meets Josh Emmett in UFC on FOX 28 headliner|date=2018-01-19|publisher=MMAjunkie|access-date=2018-01-19|language=en-US}} He won the fight via knockout in round two.{{Cite news|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2018/02/ufc-on-fox-28-results-jeremy-stephens-violently-kos-josh-emmett-calls-for-title-shot|title=UFC on FOX 28 results: Jeremy Stephens violently KOs Josh Emmett, calls for title shot|date=2018-02-25|publisher=MMAjunkie|access-date=2018-02-25|language=en-US}} This win earned him a Performance of the Night bonus.{{Cite news|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2018/02/ufc-on-fox-28-bonuses-jeremy-stephens-violent-ko-50000-orlando-mma-alan-jouban-ben-saunders-ilir-latifi|title=UFC on FOX 28 bonuses: Jeremy Stephens' violent KO gets him $50,000|date=2018-02-25|publisher=MMAjunkie|access-date=2018-02-25|language=en-US}}

Stephens next faced former WEC Featherweight Champion and 2-time UFC Featherweight Champion José Aldo, on July 28, 2018, at UFC on Fox: Alvarez vs. Poirier 2.{{cite news|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2018/04/ufc-on-fox-30-official-for-calgary-includes-jose-aldo-jeremy-stephens|title=UFC on FOX 30 official for Calgary, eight fights added to lineup|website=mmajunkie.com|author=Staff|date=2018-04-27|access-date=2018-04-27}} He lost the fight via TKO in the first round.{{Cite news|url=https://mmajunkie.com/2018/07/ufc-on-fox-30-calgary-results-jose-aldo-stops-jeremy-stephens-with-first-round-body-shot|title=UFC on FOX 30 results: Jose Aldo stops Jeremy Stephens with first-round body shot|date=2018-07-29|work=MMAjunkie|access-date=2018-07-29|language=en-US}}

Stephens faced Zabit Magomedsharipov on March 2, 2019, at UFC 235.{{Cite news|url=http://mmadna.nl/jeremy-stephens-treft-zabit-magomedsharipov-tijdens-ufc-235-in-las-vegas/|title=Jeremy Stephens battles Zabit Magomedsharipov at UFC 235 in Las Vegas|publisher=mmadna.nl|author=Marcel Dorff|date=2018-12-18|access-date=2018-12-18|language=nl}} He lost the fight via unanimous decision.{{Cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.com/2019/03/ufc-235-results-zabit-magomedsharipov-outpoints-jeremy-stephens|title=UFC 235 results: Zabit Magomedsharipov survives late charge, outpoints Jeremy Stephens|date=2019-03-03|website=MMA Junkie|language=en|access-date=2019-03-04}}

Stephens faced Yair Rodríguez on September 21, 2019, in the main event at UFC on ESPN+ 17.{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/27263597/sources-yair-rodriguez-fight-native-mexico|title=Yair Rodriguez to fight in native Mexico|last=Helwani|first=Ariel|date=2019-07-26|website=espn.com|access-date=2019-07-27}} The bout ended in a "No Contest" just 15 seconds into the first round after Rodríguez accidentally swatted Stephens in the left eye, rendering Stephens unable to continue.{{Cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2019/09/ufc-mexico-city-rodrguez-vs-stephens-no-contest-angry-fans|title=Ugly scene erupts at UFC on ESPN+ 17 after Rodriguez-Stephens fight ends in 15-second no contest|date=2019-09-22|website=MMA Junkie|language=en|access-date=2019-09-22}}

Stephens faced Yair Rodríguez in a rematch on October 18, 2019, at UFC on ESPN 6.{{Cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2019/09/yair-rodriguez-vs-jeremy-stephens-rematch-ufc-on-espn-6-boston|title=Yair Rodriguez vs. Jeremy Stephens rematch set for UFC on ESPN 6 co-headliner|date=2019-09-25|website=MMA Junkie|language=en|access-date=2019-09-26}} He lost the fight via unanimous decision.{{Cite web|url=https://cagesidepress.com/2019/10/18/ufc-boston-results-yair-rodriguez/|title=UFC Boston Results: Yair Rodriguez Comes Out On Top in Wild Co-Main Event Against Jeremy Stephens|last=Doherty|first=Dan|date=2019-10-18|website=Cageside Press|language=en-US|access-date=2019-10-19}} This fight earned him the Fight of the Night award.{{Cite web|url=https://www.mmanews.com/ufc-boston-bonuses-live-gate-attendance-revealed/|title=UFC Boston Bonuses, Live Gate & Attendance Revealed|author=Fernando Quiles Jr.|date=2019-10-19|publisher=mmanews.com|access-date=2019-10-19}}

Stephens was scheduled to Calvin Kattar on April 18, 2020, at UFC 249.{{Cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2020/01/calvin-kattar-vs-jeremy-stephens-ufc-249|title=Calvin Kattar vs. Jeremy Stephens in the works for UFC 249|author= Nolan King|website=mmajunkie.com|access-date=2020-01-23|date=2020-01-23}} However, on April 9, Dana White, the president of UFC announced that this event was postponed{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/29018339/dana-white-says-ufc-249-not-happen-april-18|title=Dana White says UFC 249 will not happen April 18|work=espn.com|author=Brett Okamoto|date=2020-04-09|access-date=2020-04-09}} and the bout eventually took place on May 9, 2020.{{Cite web|title=REVISED – UFC 249: Ferguson vs. Gaethje Fight Card {{!}} MMAWeekly.com|url=https://www.mmaweekly.com/ufc-249-khabib-vs-ferguson-fight-card|date=2020-04-27|language=en-US|access-date=2020-05-03}} At the weigh-ins on May 8, Stephens missed weight, weighing in at 150.5 pounds, 4.5 pounds over the non-title featherweight limit. As a result, the bout proceeded as a catchweight bout and Stephens was fined 20% of his purse.{{cite web|url=https://www.mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2020/05/ufc-249-tony-ferguson-justin-gaethje-cejudo-cruz-weigh-in-results-live-video-stream/amp|title=UFC 249 weigh-in results: Title fighters on weight; Jeremy Stephens misses|work=MMAJunkie.com|date=May 9, 2020|access-date=May 9, 2020|author=MMA Junkie Staff|archive-date=May 16, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200516214945/https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2020/05/ufc-249-tony-ferguson-justin-gaethje-cejudo-cruz-weigh-in-results-live-video-stream/amp|url-status=dead}} Despite having success and out-striking Kattar in the first round, Stephens lost the fight via technical knockout in round two.{{Cite web|title=UFC 249 Results: Calvin Kattar Flattens Jeremy Stephens with Elbow|url=https://cagesidepress.com/2020/05/09/ufc-249-results-calvin-kattar/|last=McDonagh|first=Joe|date=2020-05-09|website=Cageside Press|language=en-US|access-date=2020-05-10}}

Stephens was scheduled to face Arnold Allen on November 7, 2020, at UFC on ESPN: Santos vs. Teixeira.{{cite web|last=King|first=Nolan|date=2020-10-06|title=UFC books Jeremy Stephens vs. Arnold Allen for Nov. 7 event in Las Vegas|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2020/10/ufc-news-jeremy-stephens-vs-arnold-allen-booked-november-7|access-date=2020-10-06|website=MMA Junkie|language=en}} However, Stephens was forced to withdraw from the event, citing injury.{{Cite web|date=2020-10-24|title=Jeremy Stephens injured, out of UFC fight vs. Arnold Allen on Nov. 7|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2020/10/ufc-news-jeremy-stephens-injured-out-november-7-vs-arnold-allen|access-date=2020-10-25|website=MMA Junkie|language=en-US}}

Stephens was expected to return to the lightweight division for the first one since 2012 to face Drakkar Klose at UFC on ESPN 22.{{cite web|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2021/2/25/22302146/drakkar-klose-vs-jeremy-stephens-added-to-april-17-ufc-event|title=Drakkar Klose vs. Jeremy Stephens added to April 17 UFC event|work=MMAFighting.com|author=MMA Fighting Newswire, Damon Martin|date=February 25, 2021|accessdate=February 25, 2021}} However, day of the event, it was announced that the bout was scrapped due to Klose sustaining a spinal injury as a result of being shoved by Stephens at the weigh-ins.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/31277807/drakkar-klose-injury-forces-cancellation-ufc-fight-night-co-main-event-vs-jeremy-stephens|title=Drakkar Klose's camp says he suffered cervical sprain, concussion as a result of Jeremy Stephens push; UFC co-main event off|work=ESPN|author=Marc Raimondi|date=April 17, 2021|accessdate=April 17, 2021}}

Stephens faced Mateusz Gamrot on July 17, 2021, at UFC on ESPN: Makhachev vs. Moisés.{{Cite web|date=2021-05-13|title=Jeremy Stephens meets Mateusz Gamrot at UFC Fight Night on July 17|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2021/05/jeremy-stephens-vs-mateusz-gamrot-ufc-fight-night-july-17-mma-booking-matchup|access-date=2021-05-13|website=MMA Junkie|language=en-US}} He lost the fight via submission in round one.{{Cite web|last=Vreeland|first=Daniel|date=2021-07-17|title=UFC Vegas 31 Results: Mateusz Gamrot Kimuras Jeremy Stephens in Quick Fashion|url=https://cagesidepress.com/2021/07/17/ufc-vegas-31-results-mateusz-gamrot-kimuras-jeremy-stephens-quick-fashion/|access-date=2021-07-18|website=Cageside Press|language=en-US}}

In late-January 2022, it was announced that after a nearly 15 year tenure and 33 fights in the UFC, Stephens contract was not renewed after his most recent fight for the promotion.{{Cite web|date=2022-01-27|title=Jeremy Stephens no longer on UFC roster after 14 years|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2022/01/ufc-news-jeremy-stephens-released-free-agent|access-date=2022-01-27|website=MMA Junkie|language=en-US}}

After his contract was not renewed by the UFC, Stephens signed with PFL for the 2022 season to compete in their Lightweight division.{{Cite web|date=2022-01-31|title=34-fight UFC veteran Jeremy Stephens signs with PFL for 2022 season|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2022/01/ufc-veteran-jeremy-stephens-signs-with-pfl-2022-season|access-date=2022-01-31|website=MMA Junkie|language=en-US}}

In his promotional debut, Stephens faced Clay Collard on April 23, 2022, at PFL 1.{{Cite web |date=2022-03-22 |title=Manfio vs. Madge to headline PFL season kickoff |url=https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/33570255/raush-manfio-vs-don-magic-man-madge-headline-professional-fighters-league-2022-season-kickoff-former-ufc-champ-anthony-pettis-myles-price-co-main-event |access-date=2022-03-22 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}} In a back and forth affair, Stephens lost the bout via unanimous decision.{{Cite web |last=Anderson |first=Jay |date=2022-04-20 |title=PFL 1 2022: Jeremy Stephens and Clay Collard Engage in Back-and-Forth Brawl |url=https://cagesidepress.com/2022/04/20/pfl-1-2022-jeremy-stephens-vs-clay-collard/ |access-date=2022-04-21 |website=Cageside Press |language=en-US}}

Stephens faced Myles Price on June 17, 2022, at PFL 4.{{Cite web |date=2022-05-18 |title=Collard to face Martinez in PFL second round |url=https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/33937912/clay-collard-face-alexander-martinez-pfl-second-round |access-date=2022-05-18 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}} He won the bout via split decision.{{Cite web |last=Anderson |first=Jay |date=2022-06-17 |title=PFL 4: Jeremy Stephens Beats Myles Price, Playoff Hopes Dashed for Both |url=https://cagesidepress.com/2022/06/17/pfl-4-jeremy-stephens-vs-myles-price/ |access-date=2022-06-18 |website=Cageside Press |language=en-US}}

Stephens faced Natan Schulte on November 25, 2022, at PFL 10.{{Cite web |date=2022-09-28 |title=2022 PFL Championships lineup set for Thanksgiving week pay-per-view, includes 6 title fights and more |url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/lists/2022-pfl-championships-fight-card-kayla-harrison-shane-burgos-muhammad-ali-more |access-date=2022-09-29 |website=MMA Junkie |language=en-US}} Stephens lost the bout in the second round, getting submitted by arm-triangle choke.{{Cite web |last=Martin |first=Damon |date=2022-11-25 |title=PFL World Championship 2022 video: Natan Schulte taps out Jeremy Stephens with nasty arm-triangle choke |url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2022/11/25/23478514/pfl-world-championships-2022-video-natan-schulte-taps-out-jeremy-stephens-nasty-arm-triangle-choke |access-date=2022-11-26 |website=MMA Fighting |language=en}}

On December 11, 2024, it was announced that Stephens was signed by Global Fight League.{{Cite web |date=2024-12-11 |title=Global Fight League reveals massive list of signings, including 8 ex-UFC champs, for new team-based MMA organization |url=https://sports.yahoo.com/global-fight-league-reveals-massive-list-of-signings-including-8-ex-ufc-champs-for-new-team-based-mma-organization-201248109.html |access-date=2024-12-12 |website=Yahoo Sports |language=en-US}} However, in April 2025, it was reported that all GFL events were cancelled indefinitely.{{Cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2025/04/global-fight-league-inaugural-events-canceled-may-los-angeles|title=Global Fight League's inaugural back-to-back events in May canceled|publisher=mmajunkie.usatoday.com|author=Matthew Wells, Mike Bohn and Nolan King|date=2025-04-09|access-date=2025-04-10}}

Stephens made his return to the UFC in a bout against former Cage Warriors Lightweight and Welterweight Champion Mason Jones in his hometown of Des Moines, Iowa on May 3, 2025 at UFC on ESPN 67.{{Cite web|url=https://www.lowkickmma.com/jeremy-stephens-fight-mason-jones-ufc-iowa/|title=Jeremy Stephens books Octagon return in fight with Mason Jones at UFC Des Moines in May|publisher=lowkickmma.com|author=Ross Markey|date=2025-03-13|access-date=2025-03-13}} He lost the fight by unanimous decision.{{Cite web|url=https://cagesidepress.com/2025/05/03/mason-jones-dominates-wrestling-late-gets-dec-over-stephens/|title=Mason Jones Dominates Wrestling Late, Gets Dec Over Stephens|publisher=cagesidepress.com|author=Eddie Law|date=2025-05-03|access-date=2025-05-03}} This 19th UFC loss ties him with Clay Guida for most losses in UFC history.{{Cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/story/sports/ufc/2025/05/04/ufc-on-espn-67-post-event-facts-jeremy-stephens-ties-record-most-losses-history/83391033007/|title=UFC on ESPN 67 post-event facts: Jeremy Stephens ties all-time record for octagon losses|author=Mike Bohn|date=2025-05-04|access-date=2025-05-04}}

On April 1, 2023, Stephens made his professional boxing debut against Brazilian mixed martial artist José Aldo on the undercard of Roy Jones Jr. vs. Anthony Pettis at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The bout ended via majority draw.{{Cite web |last=Martin |first=Damon |date=April 2, 2023 |title=Gamebred Boxing 4 results: Jose Aldo vs. Jeremy Stephens ends in majority draw after 6-round battle |url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2023/4/2/23666536/gamebred-boxing-4-results-jose-aldo-vs-jeremy-stephens-ends-in-majority-draw-after-6-round-battle |website=MMA Fighting}}

On June 21, 2023, it was announced that Stephens would face American mixed martial artist Chris Avila on the undercard of Jake Paul vs. Nate Diaz at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas.{{Cite web |last=Al-Shatti |first=Shaun |date=June 21, 2023 |title=Chris Avila vs. Jeremy Stephens boxing match added to Paul vs. Diaz PPV card |url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2023/6/21/23768745/chris-avila-vs-jeremy-stephens-boxing-match-added-to-paul-vs-diaz-ppv-card |website=MMA Fighting}} Avila missed weight (170lbs) and was fined a percentage of his purse.{{Cite web |last=Ujwal |first=Jain |date=August 5, 2023 |title="He went for the Daniel Cormier towel trick" - Fans slam Nate Diaz's teammate Chris Avila for missing weight against Jeremy Stephens |url=https://www.sportskeeda.com/mma/news-he-went-daniel-cormier-towel-trick-fans-slam-nate-diaz-s-teammate-chris-avila-missing-weight-jeremy-stephens |website=Sportskeeda}} Avila defeated Stephens via unanimous decision.{{Cite web |last=Al-Shatti |first=Shaun |date=August 5, 2023 |title=Paul vs. Diaz results: Chris Avila dominates Jeremy Stephens to win lopsided fight |url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2023/8/5/23821663/paul-vs-diaz-results-chris-avila-dominates-jeremy-stephens-to-win-lopsided-fight |website=MMA Fighting}}

Stephens faced Jimmie Rivera on December 2, 2023, at BKFC 56 and won by TKO due to doctor stoppage.{{cite web |url=https://www.bjpenn.com/mma-news/jimmie-rivera/jimmie-rivera-expecting-a-brawl-against-jeremy-stephens-at-bkfc-56-im-going-in-there-for-a-war/|title=Jimmie Rivera expecting a "brawl" against Jeremy Stephens at BKFC 56: "I'm going in there for a war"|website=bjpenn.com}}{{cite web |url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2023/12/bkfc-56-results-jeremy-stephens-beats-jimmie-rivera-doctors-stoppage-tko|title=BKFC 56 results: Jeremy Stephens cuts Jimmie Rivera with one punch, wins by doctor's stoppage TKO|website=mmajunkie.usatoday.com|date=3 December 2023 }}

Stephens faced Bobby Taylor on September 6, 2024 at BKFC 65.{{Cite web |title=BKFC 65 FEREA VS MASSON-WONG |url=https://www.bkfc.com/events/bkfc-65-ferea-vs-masson-wong:7529f340-888e-457f-909e-c1d753415427 |access-date=2024-08-13 |website=Bare Knuckle Fighting Championships}} He won the fight by unanimous decision.{{Cite web |title=BKFC 65: Ferea vs. Masson-Wong Results {{!}} BKFC |url=https://www.bkfc.com/news/bkfc-65-ferea-vs-masson-wong-results:b23b1915-a5b6-4c03-af90-9682a39173ae |access-date=2024-09-08 |website=Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship}} This fight earned him a Performance of the Night award.{{Cite web |author=BKFC |date=2024-09-06 |title=BKFC 65 POST-FIGHT PRESS CONFERENCE - LIVE!

|url=https://www.youtube.com/live/NPo0GEgTyAg?t=52|access-date=2024-09-07|publisher=BKFC on YouTube}}

Stephens faced Eddie Alvarez at BKFC Knucklemania 5 at Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, PA on January 25, 2025.{{cite news |last1=Iskenderov |first1=Parviz |title=Eddie Alvarez vs Jeremy Stephens tops BKFC Knucklemania 5 in Philadelphia in Jan |url=https://www.fightmag.com/eddie-alvarez-vs-jeremy-stephens-tops-bkfc-knucklemania-5-in-philadelphia-in-jan/ |work=FIGHTMAG |date=19 November 2024}} Stephens scored two knockdowns and won the fight via third-round TKO, as Alvarez was not able to return for the fourth round.{{cite news |last1=Iskenderov |first1=Parviz |title=BKFC KnuckleMania 5 photos: Jeremy Stephens stops Eddie Alvarez in three rounds |url=https://www.fightmag.com/bkfc-knucklemania-5-photos-jeremy-stephens-stops-eddie-alvarez-in-three-rounds/ |work=FIGHTMAG |date=26 January 2025}}{{cite news |last1=Martin |first1=Damon |title=BKFC KnuckleMania 5 live blog: Eddie Alvarez vs. Jeremy Stephens |url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2025/1/25/24352091/bkfc-knucklemania-5-live-blog-eddie-alvarez-vs-jeremy-stephens |work=MMA Fighting |date=25 January 2025 |language=en}}

Stephens is of Mexican descent maternally.[https://twitter.com/LiLHeathenMMA/statuses/68883427184754688 Jeremy Stephens (lilheathenmma) on Twitter] He has two daughters and is a good friend of former UFC Fighter Anton Kuivanen.{{cite web |url=http://mmajunkie.com/news/18987/the-new-mr-international-jeremy-stephens-plans-on-stealing-the-show-at-ufc-113.mma |title=The new "Mr. International," Jeremy Stephens, plans on stealing the show at UFC 113 |access-date=2010-05-04 |publisher=MMAJUNKIE.com |date=2010-05-04 |archive-date=2012-11-11 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121111051835/http://mmajunkie.com/news/18987/the-new-mr-international-jeremy-stephens-plans-on-stealing-the-show-at-ufc-113.mma |url-status=dead }} Stephens has spoken about how self-doubt has affected his life and how his failures have led to suicidal thoughts in the past.{{Cite web|last=Rosenstein|first=Greg|date=February 26, 2019|title=Jeremy Stephens pondered suicide after July loss to Jose Aldo|url=https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/26079415/jeremy-stephens-pondered-suicide-july-loss-jose-aldo|website=espn.com}}

On October 5, 2012, the date Stephens was supposed to fight at UFC on FX: Browne vs. Bigfoot, Stephens was arrested in Minneapolis, Minnesota, after Minneapolis PD served an arrest warrant. Stephens was charged with felony assault and burglary, stemming from an incident that took place in Des Moines, Iowa, in 2011. Stephens was then extradited to the Polk County jail where he was incarcerated for 15 days before being released. Most of the charges, however, were eventually dropped, and Stephens pled guilty to one count of disorderly conduct, a misdemeanor.{{cite web|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2013/7/8/4504544/felony-assault-and-burglary-charges-against-jeremy-stephens-dropped|title=Felony assault and burglary charges against Jeremy Stephens dropped|work=MMAFighting.com|date=July 8, 2013}}{{cite web|url=https://www.foxsports.com/ufc/story/ufc-s-jeremy-stephens-on-15-days-in-jail-i-m-kind-of-thankful-for-it-062314%3famp=true|title=UFC's Jeremy Stephens on 15 days in jail: 'I'm kind of thankful for it'|work=Fox Sports|date=June 23, 2014}}

• Ultimate Fighting Championship
• Knockout of the Night (Three times) {{small| vs. Rafael dos Anjos, Justin Buchholz, and Marcus Davis}}
• Fight of the Night (Six times) {{small| vs. Renan Barão, Cub Swanson, Sam Stout, Gilbert Melendez, Choi Doo-ho and Yair Rodríguez}}
• Performance of the Night (One time) vs. Josh Emmett
• Tied (Anderson Silva) for second most knockdowns in UFC history (18){{Cite web|url=http://statleaders.ufc.com/ |title=Record Book |website=Ultimate Fighting Championship}}
• Second most knockdowns in UFC Featherweight division history (11){{cite web|url=http://statleaders.ufc.com/?fighter_status=0&weight_class=FTW|title=UFC Stats - Featherweight Division|publisher=ufc.com|date=2023-06-24|author=UFC}}
• Sixth most bouts in UFC history (35){{cite web|url=http://statleaders.ufc.com/?fighter_status=0|title=UFC Stats - All Fighters|publisher=ufc.com|date=2025-05-03|author=UFC}}
• Tied (Clay Guida) for most losses in UFC history (19)
• UFC.com Awards
• 2008: Ranked #10 Knockout of the Year {{small|vs. Rafael dos Anjos}}{{cite web|url=https://www.ufc.com/news/highly-unofficial-2008-ufc-awards-knockouts|title=The Highly Unofficial 2008 UFC Awards - The Knockouts|author=Thomas Gerbasi|date=December 28, 2008|work=Ultimate Fighting Championship}}
• 2010: Ranked #10 Fight of the Year {{small|vs. Sam Stout}}{{cite web|url=https://www.ufc.com/news/ten-best-fights-2010|title=Ten Best – The Fights of 2010|author=Thomas Gerbasi|date=December 18, 2010|work=Ultimate Fighting Championship}}
• 2019: Ranked #10 Fight of the Year {{small|vs. Yair Rodriguez 2}}{{cite web|url=https://www.ufc.com/news/ten-best-fights-2019|title=TEN BEST – THE FIGHTS OF 2019|author=Thomas Gerbasi|date=3 January 2020|work=Ultimate Fighting Championship}}
• MMAJunkie.com
• 2014 June Fight of the Month vs. Cub Swanson{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2014/07/mmajunkies-fight-of-the-month-for-june-2014 |title=MMAjunkie's 'Fight of the Month' for June 2014 |publisher=MMAjunkie |date=2014-07-11 |access-date=2016-09-28}}
• 2019 October Fight of the Month vs. Yair Rodríguez{{cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2019/11/fight-of-the-month-october-2019-yair-rodriguez-jeremy-stephens-ufc-on-espn-6|title=MMA Junkie's 'Fight of the Month' for October: A featherweight grudge is settled|date=November 5, 2019|publisher=mmajunkie.com}}

• Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship
• Performance of the Night (One time) vs. Bobby Taylor

{{MMArecordbox

|nc=1

|ko-wins=19

|sub-wins=2

|dec-wins=8

|ko-losses=3

|sub-losses=5

|dec-losses=14

}}

{{MMA record start}}

|-

|{{no2}}Loss

|align=center|29–22 (1)

|Mason Jones

|Decision (unanimous)

|UFC on ESPN: Sandhagen vs. Figueiredo

|{{dts|2025|May|3}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

|Des Moines, Iowa, United States

|

|-

|{{no2}}Loss

|align=center|{{nowrap|29–21 (1)}}

|Natan Schulte

|Submission (arm-triangle choke)

|PFL 10 (2022)

|{{dts|2022|November|25}}

|align=center|2

|align=center|1:32

|New York City, New York, United States

|

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|29–20 (1)

|Myles Price

|Decision (split)

|PFL 4 (2022)

|{{dts|2022|June|17}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

|Atlanta, Georgia, United States

|

|-

|{{no2}}Loss

|align=center|28–20 (1)

|Clay Collard

|Decision (unanimous)

|PFL 1 (2022)

|{{dts|2022|April|20}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

|Arlington, Texas, United States

|

|-

|{{no2}}Loss

|align=center|28–19 (1)

|Mateusz Gamrot

|Submission (kimura)

|UFC on ESPN: Makhachev vs. Moisés

|{{dts|2021|July|17}}

|align=center|1

|align=center|1:05

|Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

|{{small|Return to Lightweight.}}

|-

|{{no2}}Loss

|align=center|28–18 (1)

|Calvin Kattar

|KO (elbows)

|UFC 249

|{{dts|2020|May|9}}

|align=center|2

|align=center|2:42

|Jacksonville, Florida, United States

|{{small|Catchweight (150.5 lb) bout; Stephens missed weight.}}

|-

|{{no2}}Loss

|align=center|28–17 (1)

|Yair Rodríguez

|Decision (unanimous)

|UFC on ESPN: Reyes vs. Weidman

|{{dts|2019|October|18}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

|Boston, Massachusetts, United States

|{{small|Fight of the Night.}}

|-

|{{nocontest}}NC

|align=center|28–16 (1)

|Yair Rodríguez

|NC (accidental eye poke)

|UFC Fight Night: Rodríguez vs. Stephens

|{{dts|2019|September|21}}

|align=center|1

|align=center|0:15

|Mexico City, Mexico

|{{small|Accidental eye poke rendered Stephens unable to continue.}}

|-

|{{no2}}Loss

|align=center|28–16

|Zabit Magomedsharipov

|Decision (unanimous)

|UFC 235

|{{dts|2019|March|2}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

|Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

|

|-

|{{no2}}Loss

|align=center|28–15

|José Aldo

|TKO (punches)

|UFC on Fox: Alvarez vs. Poirier 2

|{{dts|2018|July|28}}

|align=center|1

|align=center|4:19

|Calgary, Alberta, Canada

|

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|28–14

|Josh Emmett

|KO (elbows)

|UFC on Fox: Emmett vs. Stephens

|{{dts|2018|February|24}}

|align=center|2

|align=center|1:35

|Orlando, Florida, United States

|{{small|Performance of the Night.}}

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|27–14

|Choi Doo-ho

|TKO (punches and elbows)

|UFC Fight Night: Stephens vs. Choi

|{{dts|2018|January|14}}

|align=center|2

|align=center|2:36

|St. Louis, Missouri, United States

|{{small|Fight of the Night.}}

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|26–14

|Gilbert Melendez

|Decision (unanimous)

|UFC 215

|{{dts|2017|September|9}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

|Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

|{{small|Fight of the Night.}}

|-

|{{no2}}Loss

|align=center|25–14

|Renato Moicano

|Decision (split)

|UFC on Fox: Johnson vs. Reis

|{{dts|2017|April|15}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

|Kansas City, Missouri, United States

|

|-

|{{no2}}Loss

|align=center|25–13

|Frankie Edgar

|Decision (unanimous)

|UFC 205

|{{dts|2016|November|12}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

|New York City, New York, United States

|

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|25–12

|Renan Barão

|Decision (unanimous)

|UFC Fight Night: Almeida vs. Garbrandt

|{{dts|2016|May|29}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

|Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

|{{small|Fight of the Night.}}

|-

|{{no2}}Loss

|align=center|24–12

|Max Holloway

|Decision (unanimous)

|UFC 194

|{{dts|2015|December|12}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

|Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

|

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|24–11

|Dennis Bermudez

|TKO (flying knee and punches)

|UFC 189

|{{dts|2015|July|11}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|0:32

|Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

|{{small|Catchweight (149.5 lb) bout; Stephens missed weight.}}

|-

|{{no2}}Loss

|align=center| 23–11

|Charles Oliveira

|Decision (unanimous)

|The Ultimate Fighter: A Champion Will Be Crowned Finale

|{{dts|2014|December|12}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

|Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

|{{small|Catchweight (146.5 lb) bout; Oliveira missed weight.}}

|-

|{{no2}}Loss

|align=center| 23–10

|Cub Swanson

|Decision (unanimous)

|UFC Fight Night: Swanson vs. Stephens

|{{dts|2014|June|28}}

|align=center|5

|align=center|5:00

|San Antonio, Texas, United States

|{{small|Fight of the Night.}}

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 23–9

|Darren Elkins

|Decision (unanimous)

|UFC on Fox: Henderson vs. Thomson

|{{dts|2014|January|25}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

|Chicago, Illinois, United States

|

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 22–9

|Rony Jason

|KO (head kick)

|UFC Fight Night: Belfort vs. Henderson 2

|{{dts|2013|November|9}}

|align=center|1

|align=center|0:40

|Goiânia, Brazil

|

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|21–9

|Estevan Payan

|Decision (unanimous)

|UFC 160

|{{dts|2013|May|25}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

|Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

|{{small|Featherweight debut.}}

|-

|{{no2}}Loss

|align=center|20–9

|Yves Edwards

|KO (punches and elbows)

|UFC on Fox: Henderson vs. Diaz

|{{dts|2012|December|8}}

|align=center|1

|align=center|1:55

|Seattle, Washington, United States

|

|-

|{{no2}}Loss

|align=center|20–8

|Donald Cerrone

|Decision (unanimous)

|UFC on Fuel TV: The Korean Zombie vs. Poirier

|{{dts|2012|May|15}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

|Fairfax, Virginia, United States

|

|-

|{{no2}}Loss

|align=center|20–7

|Anthony Pettis

|Decision (split)

|UFC 136

|{{dts|2011|October|08}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

|Houston, Texas, United States

|

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|20–6

|Danny Downes

|Decision (unanimous)

|The Ultimate Fighter: Team Lesnar vs. Team dos Santos Finale

|{{dts|format=mdy|2011|June|4}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

|Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

|

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|19–6

|Marcus Davis

|KO (punch)

|UFC 125

|{{dts|format=mdy|2011|January|1}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|2:33

|Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

|{{small| Knockout of the Night.}}

|-

|{{no2}}Loss

|align=center|18–6

|Melvin Guillard

|Decision (split)

|UFC 119

|{{dts|format=mdy|2010|September|25}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

|Indianapolis, Indiana, United States

|

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|18–5

|Sam Stout

|Decision (split)

|UFC 113

|{{dts|format=mdy|2010|May|08}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

|Montreal, Quebec, Canada

|{{small| Fight of the Night.}}

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|17–5

|Justin Buchholz

|TKO (doctor stoppage)

|UFC Fight Night: Diaz vs. Guillard

|{{dts|format=mdy|2009|September|16}}

|align=center|1

|align=center|3:32

|Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, United States

|{{small|Knockout of the Night.}}

|-

|{{no2}}Loss

|align=center|16–5

|Gleison Tibau

|Decision (unanimous)

|UFC Fight Night: Condit vs. Kampmann

|{{dts|format=mdy|2009|April|01}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

|Nashville, Tennessee, United States

|

|-

|{{no2}}Loss

|align=center|16–4

|Joe Lauzon

|Submission (armbar)

|UFC Fight Night: Lauzon vs. Stephens

|{{dts|format=mdy|2009|February|07}}

|align=center|2

|align=center|4:43

|Tampa, Florida, United States

|

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|16–3

|Rafael dos Anjos

|KO (punches)

|UFC 91

|{{dts|format=mdy|2008|November|15}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|0:39

|Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

|{{small| Knockout of the Night.}}

|-

|{{no2}}Loss

|align=center|15–3

|Spencer Fisher

|Decision (unanimous)

|The Ultimate Fighter: Team Rampage vs. Team Forrest Finale

|{{dts|format=mdy|2008|June|21}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

|Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

|

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|15–2

|Cole Miller

| TKO (punches and elbows)

| UFC Fight Night: Swick vs. Burkman

|{{dts|format=mdy|2008|January|23}}

|align=center|2

|align=center|4:44

|Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

|

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|14–2

|Diego Saraiva

|Decision (unanimous)

|UFC 76

|{{dts|format=mdy|2007|September|22}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

|Anaheim, California, United States

|

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|13–2

|Nick Walker

|TKO (punches)

|Midwest Cage 9

|{{dts|format=mdy|2007|July|27}}

|align=center|1

|align=center|4:45

|Des Moines, Iowa, United States

|

|-

|{{no2}}Loss

|align=center|12–2

|Din Thomas

|Submission (armbar)

|UFC 71

|{{dts|format=mdy|2007|May|26}}

|align=center|2

|align=center|2:44

|Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

|

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|12–1

|Vern Jefferson

| TKO (punches)

|Greensparks: Full Contact Fighting 3

|{{dts|format=mdy|2007|March|17}}

|align=center|1

|align=center|3:58

|Des Moines, Iowa, United States

|

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|11–1

|Norm Alexander

| Submission (triangle choke)

| Title FC: Battle at the Barn

|{{dts|format=mdy|2007|February|21}}

|align=center|1

|align=center|3:26

|Des Moines, Iowa, United States

|

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|10–1

|Chris Mickle

| KO (punch)

|Midwest Cage 5

|{{dts|format=mdy|2006|November|22}}

|align=center|4

|align=center|0:27

|Des Moines, Iowa, United States

|

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|9–1

|Aaron Williams

| TKO (punches)

|Universal Gladiator 4

|{{dts|format=mdy|2006|September|22}}

|align=center|1

|align=center|N/A

|Kenner, Louisiana, United States

|

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|8–1

|Doug Alcorn

| Submission (armbar)

|Greensparks: Full Contact Fighting 1

|{{dts|format=mdy|2006|August|19}}

|align=center|1

|align=center|1:56

|Clive, Iowa, United States

|

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|7–1

|Chris Mickle

| TKO (punches)

| Midwest Cage 4

|{{dts|format=mdy|2006|July|15}}

|align=center|2

|align=center|3:36

|Des Moines, Iowa, United States

|

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|6–1

|Kendrick Johnson

| KO (punch)

| Midwest Cage 1

|{{dts|format=mdy|2006|February|11}}

|align=center|1

|align=center|1:46

|Des Moines, Iowa, United States

|

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|5–1

|Will Shutt

| TKO (punches)

| Xtreme Kage Kombat: Trials

|{{dts|format=mdy|2005|August|27}}

|align=center|1

|align=center|1:19

|Des Moines, Iowa, United States

|

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|4–1

|Sharome Blanchard

|TKO (punches)

| Xtreme Kage Kombat: Des Moines

|{{dts|format=mdy|2005|March|19}}

|align=center|1

|align=center|2:36

|Des Moines, Iowa, United States

|

|-

|{{no2}}Loss

|align=center|3–1

|Chris Mickle

| Submission (rear-naked choke)

| Downtown Destruction 3

|{{dts|format=mdy|2005|March|02}}

|align=center|2

|align=center|1:51

|Des Moines, Iowa, United States

|

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|3–0

|Chris Caleb

| KO (punch)

| Downtown Destruction 2

|{{dts|format=mdy|2005|February|02}}

|align=center|1

|align=center|1:44

|Owatonna, Minnesota, United States

|

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|2–0

|Gary Percival

| TKO (submission to punches)

| Jungle Madness 2

|{{dts|format=mdy|2005|January|15}}

|align=center|1

|align=center|N/A

|Des Moines, Iowa, United States

|

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|1–0

|Ted Worthington

| KO (punches)

| Downtown Destruction 1

|{{dts|format=mdy|2005|January|12}}

|align=center|1

|align=center|0:33

|Des Moines, Iowa, United States

|{{small|Lightweight debut.}}

|-

{{end}}

{{Cite web|url=https://www.sherdog.com/fighter/Jeremy-Stephens-12179|title=Jeremy|last=Sherdog.com|website=Sherdog|access-date=2019-09-26}}

{{BoxingRecordSummary

|ko-wins=

|ko-losses=

|dec-wins=

|dec-losses= 1

|dq-losses=

|draws=1

}}

{{MMArecordbox

|nc=

|ko-wins=2

|ko-losses=

|sub-wins=

|sub-losses=

|dec-wins=1

|dec-losses=

}}

{{MMA record start}}

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|3–0

|Eddie Alvarez

|TKO (corner stoppage)

| BKFC Knucklemania V

|{{dts|2025|January|25}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|2:00

| Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States

|

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|2–0

|Bobby Taylor

|Decision (unanimous)

|BKFC 65

|{{dts|2024|September|6}}

|align=center|5

|align=center|2:00

|Salt Lake City, Utah, United States

|{{small|Performance of the Night.}}

|-

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|1–0

|Jimmie Rivera

|TKO (doctor stoppage)

|BKFC 56

|{{dts|2023|December|2}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|2:00

|Salt Lake City, Utah, United States

|

|-

{{end}}

• List of male mixed martial artists

{{reflist|colwidth=30em}}

• {{sports links}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Stephens, Jeremy}}

Category:American male mixed martial artists

Category:Mixed martial artists from Iowa

Category:Mixed martial artists utilizing wrestling

Category:Mixed martial artists utilizing Brazilian jiu-jitsu

Category:American mixed martial artists of Mexican descent

Category:Living people

Category:1986 births

Category:Sportspeople from Des Moines, Iowa

Category:Sportspeople from Polk County, Iowa

Category:American male sport wrestlers

Category:Amateur wrestlers

Category:American practitioners of Brazilian jiu-jitsu

Category:Ultimate Fighting Championship male fighters

Category:American male boxers

Category:Boxers from Iowa