AAHS graduate transitions from wrestling to coaching UFC fighter | Local news, sports, employment

Altoona Native Jason Kutz Coaches UFC Champion to Victory

Altoona native Jason Kutz, a former wrestling standout, has found success in coaching after guiding Racquel Pennington to victory in the Ultimate Fighting Championships women’s national title bout in Toronto. Kutz, a Blair County Sports Hall of Fame inductee, has had a storied wrestling career, winning multiple championships and medals in freestyle competition.

Kutz, who now resides in Colorado Springs with his family, has been coaching Pennington for the past 10 years. The 35-year-old fighter secured the 135-pound bantamweight title with a unanimous decision over Mayra Buena Vista of Brazil. Pennington, with a record of 16-8, has won her last six fights under Kutz’s guidance.

Describing the championship fight as “one-sided,” Kutz praised Pennington’s striking abilities and the combination of wrestling and Jiu-Jitsu techniques they have been working on. Pennington expressed gratitude towards Kutz for his mentorship and guidance throughout her career, calling him her wrestling coach, mentor, and friend.

Kutz, who also coaches a high school wrestling team in Colorado Springs, finds coaching in the MMA realm particularly satisfying. He enjoys blending wrestling techniques with Jiu-Jitsu in training fighters for competition. Pennington’s victory marks a significant milestone in both her career and Kutz’s coaching journey, showcasing the impact of dedicated mentorship and hard work in achieving success in the world of mixed martial arts.