From Cage to Cell: The Fall of MMA Fighter Pietro Menga

Once hailed as a rising star in the mixed martial arts (MMA) world, Pietro Menga’s journey from the octagon to incarceration serves as a stark reminder of how swiftly fortunes can change. Known in the fighting circuits as “The Italian Stallion,” Menga’s promising career took a dark turn, culminating in a 15-year and 5-month prison sentence for serious criminal offenses.

A Promising Start

Menga began his professional MMA career with an impressive 13-fight winning streak, capturing the attention of major promotions. His prowess earned him a spot as a short-notice replacement against Tim Elliott at UFC on FOX 26 in 2017. However, failing to make weight led to the bout’s cancellation and his subsequent release from the UFC. Despite setbacks, Menga continued to compete, securing a victory in April 2023 and preparing for a bout in the OKTAGON promotion in early 2024.

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Descent into Crime

Behind the scenes, Menga was entangled in illicit activities. Greater Manchester Police uncovered his role as a middleman in an organized crime group, facilitating the distribution of large quantities of cocaine and firearms. Encrypted messages revealed his involvement in transactions worth over $500,000, marking one of the UK’s most significant firearm trafficking conspiracies.

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Sentencing and Aftermath

On April 22, 2025, Menga was sentenced to over 15 years in prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to sell or transfer prohibited weapons and conspiracy to supply cocaine. His conviction underscores the severe consequences of straying from the path of professional sportsmanship.