Henry Justin Martinez (born August 7, 1983) is an American mixed martial artist who last competed in the Lightweight division. A professional competitor since 2006, Martinez formerly competed for the UFC and Bellator.
Mixed martial arts
Ultimate Fighting Championship
Martinez was signed to the UFC and stepped in to fight Matthew Riddle at welterweight on February 4, 2012 at UFC 143 after Riddle's original opponent Jorge Lopez was injured.[1] He lost the fight via split decision.
Martinez faced Bernardo Magalhaes on June 8, 2012 at UFC on FX 3.[2] He earned his first UFC victory via split decision.
Martinez was expected to face Daron Cruickshank on September 1, 2012 at UFC 151.[3] However, after UFC 151 was cancelled, Martinez/Cruickshank was rescheduled and took place on December 8, 2012 at UFC on Fox 5.[4] Martinez lost the fight via KO in the second round. After this loss he was released from the UFC.[5]
Personal life
Martinez was arrested in Albuquerque September 9, 2016 for hit and run of a cyclist on the Pan American Freeway frontage road. He was stopped by a citizen and held at gunpoint until law enforcement arrived. The dramatic scene was captured on video and shown by KRQE news in Albuquerque. Martinez drug the bicycle approximately a mile under his car until stopped by the good samaritan.[6]
Additionally, in 2018, Martinez pled guilty to possession of a controlled substance, and two counts of evading, resisting, or obstructing an officer according to New Mexico court records. This was for a separate incident. [7]
