Deaf Ultimate Fighter Shares Inspirational Story at Batesville High School

Matt Hamill gave a presentation to American Sign Language students on Monday.

Matt Hamill addresses students at Batesville High School. Photo provided.

(Batesville, Ind.) – Mixed martial artists Matt Hamill was in Batesville on Monday to give a presentation about overcoming adversity and the importance of perseverance and dedication in pursuing goals.

Hamill, a Loveland, Ohio native, was born deaf.

Despite the challenges that come with being deaf, Hamill would earn a scholarship to wrestle at Purdue University. He eventually transferred to Rochester Institute of Technology, where he won three NCAA Division III wrestling titles.

In 2006, Hamill joined the UFC, where he would face fighters such as Tito Ortiz, Jon Jones, Rampage Jackson, and Michael Bisping.

He would amass 13 victories over 21 matches between his debut in 2006 and his last match in 2018.

Now that his MMA career appears to be behind him, Hamill remains active in the deaf community.

His presentation at Batesville High School took place in front of approximately 80 students who are currently enrolled in American Sign Language (ASL) classes.

Hamill’s visit to BHS was funded through a grant from the Batesville Community Education Foundation.

More from Local News

Events

East Central FCCLA Shines at State Conference

The event took place February 26-27 at the Horizon Convention Center in Muncie.

Indiana Legislative Session Wraps

Gov. Braun says Hoosiers win on affordability, jobs, wages, public safety and education.

Winter Weather Advisory Issued for Tri-State Area

Snow, light ice possible overnight.

Hoosier Basketball Magazine Names Top 60 Senior Girls

The 44th annual Top 60 Senior Workout will take place March 8 at Beech Grove High School.

Local Sports Report - February 27-28, 2026

Boys Basketball and Boys Swimming and Diving results.

OA's Nash King Earns Second, Third Place Finishes at Swim State Finals

Three other local swimmers competed at State.

On Air

Eagle Country 99.3 playing
Alabama - When We Make Love

Tim McGraw One Of Those Nights 10:04
John Anderson Straight Tequila Night 10:01
Fox News Fox News National Newscast 10:00
Rascal Flatts Yours If You Want It 9:56