Guide Note: Shad Smith is a Mixed Martial Arts fighter who has taken part in both organized matches and "underground," backyard fights, including those organized by the controversial Felony Fights. As profiled in the March 23, 2008, issue of The New York Times Magazine, the fact that Smith is openly gay makes him unique in the world of professional fighting. Having spent much of his life behind bars, both as a juvenile and as an adult, Smith attributes his violent background to the strain of growing up gay, feeling the need to compensate for his sexual orientation with hyper-masculine behavior. In the Times piece, he admits to losing some of his edge as a fighter since coming out.

Fast Facts:

1. Born in Cincinnati, OH
2. Raised in San Bernardino, CA
3. 35-years-old
4. 5'5"
5. 155 lbs
6. Openly gay
7. Charged with 46 counts of assault and battery as juvenile
8. Imprisoned for carjacking, 1995-1999
9. First pro fight January 22, 2000

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