Regan Upshaw grew up in Tampa, Florida, where the roar of professional sports was a constant backdrop. The son of Regan Upshaw Sr., a former NFL tight end who appeared in Super Bowl XXXVII, he initially chased hockey and rugby before discovering football later than most of his peers.
A late‑blooming transition
A camp at Clemson University caught the eye of the coaching staff, leading to a scholarship with the Tigers. Over three seasons he helped the team capture two NCAA College Football National Championships, cementing his reputation as a reliable defensive back.
After graduating, Upshaw faced a crossroads: pursue a career in the NFL or follow a long‑standing fascination with combat sports. He chose the latter, beginning his martial arts training in Ohio before relocating to Denver to join the Elevation Fight Team, where he could train alongside elite coaches and athletes.
Building an unbeaten foundation
In the amateur ranks, Upshaw remained undefeated across MMA, Muay Thai and kickboxing, a streak that underscored his natural aptitude for striking and grappling. The discipline required to stay unbeaten mirrored the work ethic he had honed on the football field.
Earlier this year he signed with ONE Championship, the Singapore‑based organization that broadcasts to a global audience. The promotion offered a platform that aligned with his ambition to test himself against the world’s best fighters.
The upcoming debut
At ONE Fight Night 44 in Bangkok, Thailand, Upshaw will step into the cage for the first time as a professional. He will face Britain’s Paul Elliott in a heavyweight showdown, marking a dramatic shift from the 100‑yard lines of college football to the 25‑foot octagon.
The fight represents more than a personal milestone; it is a testament to Upshaw’s belief that his athletic instincts can translate to a new arena. "I’ve always trusted my abilities," he said, "and now I’m ready to prove them on a global stage."