It seems safe to assume that the mixed martial arts world would look much different today had Urijah Faber not left his imprint on it. The Team Alpha Male founder and former World Extreme Cagefighting champion will celebrate his 40th birthday on May 14.
An Isla Vista, California, native, Faber wrestled collegiately at UC Davis, where he was a two-time national qualifier. His background as an amateur wrestler made for a natural transition to MMA. Faber debuted on Nov. 12, 2003, won 21 of his first 22 professional fights and captured titles in King of the Cage, Gladiator Challenge and the WEC.