Mike “The Wolverine” Rio made his return to the MMA cage on September 18, 2010 after a year-and-a-half hiatus with a huge upset and show stopping fight over Mike Bruno (6-3 at the time of the fight). Mike Rio was a contestant on UFC's reality show "The Ultimate Fighter 15" (T.U.F.). Rio grew up in Miami, FL attending Miami Southridge Senior High School. Growing up in a rough neighborhood and attending school in the middle of the projects, he stayed out of trouble by focusing on his wrestling career. Rio quickly became a wrestling champion and high school stud.

​

Rio continued wrestling throughout his college career, becoming a three time college national champion, first at 149 lbs. at Harper Community College in 2004 and then at 149 lbs and 157 lbs with the NAIA in 2005 and 2006, respectively, while attending Lidenwood University. Rio’s wrestling background has made him a fierce competitor in the MMA cage, leading him to an impressive record. Rio is currently a certified wrestling coach and has dedicated his life to training to be a UFC champion.