Meet Serena DeJesus: MMA Fighter With Autism

In yet another example of the futility in placing limitations on individuals with autism, Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fighter Serena DeJesus is taking the sport by storm as one of the first professional MMA fighters to be diagnosed with autism. She also happens to be female, making the milestone all the more significant.

DeJesus, who is 25, recently won her first professional match by unanimous decision in a hard-fought bout against Kelly “Skittles” Clayton.

Dubbed “the Southpaw Outlaw,” DeJesus had previously racked up an impressive amateur record before making the leap into the pro ranks during Autism Awareness Month in April.

Several days before her fight, she was profiled by MTN Sports and said her goal was to represent the autism community in a positive way:

“I want to show that there can be good role models in the autism community. Everybody looks up to fighters. I can be that strong example that you can do it; even if something is hard, just try, try again. It’s great. I have two siblings who are also autistic, and they’re doing it too. One of them wants to fight like me when they get to be of age, and the other one wants to be social and be healthy, so it’s nice.”

With a huge fan base and unprecedented growth within the last 10 years, Mixed Martial Arts provides an excellent platform for DeJesus and others to educate, inspire and demonstrate that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.

Be sure to follow Serena on Facebook Twitter and Instagram to get updates on upcoming matches so you are able to follow and support her.