Michael Aswell is gearing up for one of the most crucial battles of his young career, facing Lucas Almeida at UFC Fight Night on October 11, 2025, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. At only 25 years old, the featherweight contender hopes to rebound from recent decision losses and make a statement in one of the sport’s most competitive divisions.

The stakes are high: competing in Almeida’s home country means facing not just a skilled opponent but also a passionate Brazilian crowd anxious to see their man win. The youngster enters this fight with a record of 10 wins and 3 losses, having never been finished in the cage. But beyond the record, little is known about the fighter, and fans are intrigued to know more about the man behind the nickname “The Texas Kid.”

Is Michael Aswell American? Ethnicity & Nationality

Michael Aswell Jr., often known as ‘The Texas Kid,’ is from Houston, Texas. Aswell is a born Christian raised in Houston, one of the country’s most diverse and vibrant cities, and his background there influenced both his character and fighting style. His strong links to Texas can be seen not just in his nickname but also in how he represents his home state in the UFC.

Growing up in Houston’s multicultural milieu exposed him to a wide range of influences, which helped him develop resilience, discipline, and adaptability. While specifics of his family’s past are mostly kept private, his roots are often mentioned in media coverage, giving fans a fuller picture of the fighter.

The 25-year-old showed athletic versatility from an early age, participating in an array of sports, including football, basketball, and baseball. It wasn’t until a casual visit to coach Saul Soliz’s gym that he learned about mixed martial arts. The encounter with Soliz, a renowned figure in Texas MMA, was life-changing, exposing Aswell to intense training, discipline, and the old-school grind mentality that would influence his approach to the sport.

Michael Aswell’s American citizenship has also influenced his fan base. Texas fans unite behind him, seeing him as a representative of local talent on a global scale. Beyond hometown pride, his story represents a larger narrative of American fighters attempting to make an impression in the UFC, combining skill, perseverance, and cultural identity to advance through the rankings.

Michael Aswell’s MMA Career

Michael Aswell began his professional MMA career in 2018 and quickly became known for his striking prowess and toughness. Competing largely in minor promotions such as Fury Fighting Championship, he compiled a combination of knockout and decision victories, establishing a record that drew the attention of UFC scouts.

By the time he signed with the UFC, ‘Texas Kid’ had established himself as a tough and dangerous featherweight with five knockouts in ten wins. Aswell made his UFC debut on May 31, 2025, at UFC on ESPN 68, against Bolaji Oki. Despite losing by unanimous decision, he showed persistence and skill, proving he belonged on the big stage.

His time at Metro Fight Club with Soliz had already improved his striking, cardio, and tactics, making him a well-rounded fighter prepared for the difficulties ahead. Aswell continues to evolve, hoping to rise up the featherweight ranks and establish himself as a contender. His upcoming fight against Lucas Almeida is critical for momentum, and with his aggressive style, knockout power, and toughness, you don’t want to miss his next fight at UFC Rio.