Former deaf UFC fighter shares story with BHS students

(BATESVILLE, Ind.) – Former mixed martial artist Matt Hammill recently visited Batesville High School. 

Hammill was born deaf but didn’t let that stop him from following his passion. 

He won three NCAA Division III national championships and was the first deaf fighter to compete in the UFC.

Hammill is known as "The Hammer" and he competed against some of the top fighters in UFC before starting a career as a motivational speaker.

The Ohio native spoke to students who are part of American Sign Language classes at the high school on Wednesday. 

“Approximately 150 students attended the presentation, where Hamill shared his life story and encouraged students to overcome challenges and pursue their goals,” said BHS American Sign Language teacher Betsy Baugh. 

She added, "His visit gave ASL students a unique chance to interact with a well-known Deaf athlete and learn about perseverance, determination, and Deaf culture.

The event was sponsored by the John and Joan Hillenbrand Foundation.