Education
York College of Pennsylvania.
York College of Pennsylvania.
Early career
Bastress started his professional career in 2010. He fought primarily for Pennsylvania-based promotion Central Pennsylvania Warrior Challenge, winning three times in a row. In December 2010 Bastress faced Tim Williams for the middleweight title of Philadelphia"s organization Locked in the Cage in a five round bout.
He lost the fight at the end of the third round via doctor stoppage.
With a record of three victories and one loss, he signed with Bellator. Bellator Fighting Championships
Bastress made his debut on October 15, 2011 at Bellator 54 against Daniel Gracie.
Bastress faced Plinio Cruz on April 13, 2012 at Bellator 65. Bastress faced promotional newcomer Jason Butcher on June 22, 2012 at Bellator 71.
He had his first defeat in the promotion via submission in the very first round.
Bastress was expected to face Lewis Rumsey on October 19, 2012 at Bellator 77. However, Rumsey was replaced by Ariel Sepulveda due to undisclosed reasons. Bastress defeated Sepulveda via split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28).
Amateur wrestling
National Collegiate Athletic AssociationNCAA Division III All-American out of York College of Pennsylvania (2005-2006)
National Wrestling Coaches AssociationNWCA Division III National Hall of Fame (2013).