Corey Hill facts for kids

Corey Cornelius Hill (born October 3, 1978 – died May 15, 2015) was an American mixed martial artist. He was known for his amazing wrestling skills. In high school, he won many state wrestling championships. He was also a two-time national finalist college wrestler.

Corey Hill's MMA Journey

Corey Hill was a talented fighter who competed in mixed martial arts (MMA). This sport combines different fighting styles. He showed great promise early in his career.

Joining The Ultimate Fighter

Corey Hill joined The Ultimate Fighter 5. This was a TV show where fighters competed for a contract with the UFC. He fought as a lightweight.

• His first professional fight on the show was against Rob Emerson.
• Corey won this fight by a decision from the judges.
• Later, he lost in the quarterfinals to Nate Diaz. Nate won by using a move called a triangle choke.
• Even though he lost, a coach named Jeremy Horn believed in Corey. He thought Corey could become a very strong fighter.

Fighting in the UFC

After the show, Corey made his official UFC debut.

• At UFC Fight Night 12, he won against Joe Veres. He won in the second round.
• Next, he fought Justin Buchholz at UFC 86. Corey lost this fight by a rear-naked choke.

A Tough Injury and Comeback

In December 2008, Corey faced a big challenge. During a fight at UFC: Fight for the Troops, he broke his right leg. This happened when his opponent, Dale Hartt, blocked his kick. It was a very serious injury. Doctors thought it would take a long time to heal.

• The UFC helped Corey a lot during his recovery. He was very thankful for their support.
• Another sponsor, Fighter Warehouse, also gave him a bonus.
• An event was held by the XFC to help raise money for him.

Returning to the Ring

Corey Hill made an amazing comeback. Just 13 months after his leg injury, he fought again.

• On January 23, 2010, he won against Jason Trzewieczynski. He won by a unanimous decision from the judges.
• He then had a few more fights. He lost to Mark Holst.
• But he won against WEC fighter Kit Cope. He won with a triangle choke.
• He also fought Rob McCullough and lost by decision.
• On July 14, 2012, Corey won against Darryl Madison. He used an anaconda choke to win.

Fighting in Xtreme Fighting Championships

In 2011, Corey signed a contract with XFC.

• He made his XFC debut on December 2, 2011. He won against Charlie Rader in the first round.
• His last fight in the XFC was on December 7, 2012. He lost to Ryan Thomas by an armbar.

Corey's Life Outside Fighting

Corey Hill lived in Spring Hill, Florida. He went to Springstead High School there.

• He was married to Lauran.
• They had three children: a daughter named Seytia and two sons, Keynan and Corey, Jr.
• Corey also went to Colby Community College in Kansas. He was a national champion wrestler there. He was on a national championship wrestling team.

Corey's Passing

Corey Hill passed away on May 15, 2015, when he was 36 years old. He had been sick with pneumonia.

• He had a collapsed lung.
• He also had a heart attack.
• His family was with him during this difficult time.

Mixed martial arts record