Stipe Miocic named 2019 Pro Athlete of the Year at 20th Annual Cleveland Sports Awards

Stipe Miocic
Photo credit Ben Fontana - 92.3 The Fan
CLEVELAND, OH — Stipe Miocic was named the 2019 Professional Athlete of the Year on Wednesday night at the 20th Annual Greater Cleveland Sports Awards.

“This is crazy. It's amazing to be nominated,” Miocic said. “I'm blessed to be a part of such a great city. I'm speechless."

Miocic became the UFC Heavyweight Champion in August after he knocked out Daniel Cormier in the fourth round at UFC 241.

The Cleveland native has successfully defended his heavyweight championship three times, which is the most consecutive title defenses in UFC history. 

Miocic is a part-time firefighter and paramedic for the Oakwood and Valley View fire departments. He’s 19-3 in mixed martial arts matches. Miocic is a two-time UFC Heavyweight Champion.

Nick Chubb, Roberto Pérez and Collin Sexton were the other finalists for the award. Past winners include Baker Mayfield, Corey Kluber, LeBron James, Josh Gordon and Kyrie Irving. 

                                                                         Other Award Winners
Lifetime Achievement Award — The Dolan Family
Female High School Athlete of the Year —Kirsten Eppele
Male High School Athlete of the Year —Kyle Cusimano
Male Collegiate Athlete of the Year — Jordin James
Female Collegiate Athlete of the Year — Naz Hillmon
Courage Award — Skylar Scarnecchia