Profiles

Jeff Monson Biography: Age, Earlier Life, Religion, Career, Net Worth

Full Name: Jeffrey William Monson

Date of Birth: January 18, 1971 (Age: 54 as of 2025)

Place of Birth: Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA

Nationality: Russian (formerly American)

Occupation: Mixed Martial Artist (MMA), Grappler, Politician

Weight Class: Heavyweight, Light Heavyweight

Fighting Style: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Wrestling


Early Life & Education

Jeff Monson was born in Saint Paul, Minnesota. He grew up in a working-class family and developed an interest in wrestling at an early age. He attended Timberline High School in Lacey, Washington, where he excelled as a high school wrestler.

He later went to the University of Illinois and then transferred to the University of Minnesota-Duluth, where he earned a degree in psychology. Monson initially worked as a mental health professional before transitioning full-time into combat sports.


Career

Amateur Wrestling & Grappling

Monson was an accomplished amateur wrestler before transitioning into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and submission grappling. He became a two-time ADCC Submission Wrestling World Champion, one of the most prestigious grappling competitions.

Mixed Martial Arts (MMA)

Jeff Monson had a long professional MMA career, competing in promotions such as:

  • UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship)
  • PRIDE FC
  • Strikeforce
  • M-1 Global
  • Cage Warriors

He fought some of the biggest names in MMA, including Fedor Emelianenko, Josh Barnett, and Daniel Cormier. Known for his exceptional grappling skills, Monson was a submission specialist with many wins coming by way of chokes and joint locks.

Russian Citizenship & Political Career

In 2018, Monson was granted Russian citizenship and became involved in Russian politics. He expressed strong support for Vladimir Putin and the Russian government, aligning himself with communist and socialist ideologies. He later became a regional deputy in Krasnogorsk, Russia.


Religion

Jeff Monson has not publicly identified with a specific religion in the past. However, recently after joining Islam, he has this to say;

“A long time ago, when I was in Dubai, I witnessed some of my friends doing this prayer and for me, the big thing was I felt closer to God, but also I felt really close to my brothers who were doing the prayer with me. And that is a reason that I converted to Muslim, to being with his brotherhood,” he said on August 17, 2024.


Relationships & Family

Monson has been married multiple times and has children. However, he keeps much of his personal and family life private.


Net Worth

As of 2025, Jeff Monson’s estimated net worth is around $500,000 to $1 million. His income sources include MMA fights, grappling competitions, coaching, political activities, and public appearances.