After realizing his dream of fighting in the UFC, local man joins Fall River Fire Department

After hard work and dedication, a Fall River born fighter realized his dream and fought in the UFC. Now he has started a new career path.

Connor “The Controller” Matthews, an Air Force Combat Controller veteran, defeated undefeated Jair Farias in October of 2023 by unanimous decision in a featherweight matchup in Dana White’s UFC Contender Series and received a contract from the man himself.

After three fights in the UFC, Matthews announced on Friday his new role with the Fall River Fire Department.

“I’m honestly honored to join and be a part of the Fall River Fire Department. Joining the fire service was unexpected but has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life. Huge thanks to the Massachusetts firefighter instructors. class 38 was (a group of solid) individuals, kept a positive attitude, and became family. I’m proud to be a part of this class and can’t wait to get to work.”

The 24 members of Massachusetts Firefighting Academy Career Recruit Class #BW38 trained in Bridgewater and were expected to graduate a week ago – but the ceremony was postponed after the Blizzard of 2026 dropped more than 30” of snow on the campus.

According to the Massachusetts Fire Marshal, students receive classroom training in all basic firefighter skills. They practice first under non-fire conditions and then during controlled fire conditions. To graduate, students must demonstrate proficiency in life safety, search and rescue, ladder operations, water supply, pump operation, and fire attack. Fire attack operations range from mailbox fires to multiple-floor or multiple-room structural fires. Upon successful completion of the Career Recruit Program, all students have met the national standards of NFPA 1010, Standard for Fire Fighter Professional Qualifications, and are certified to the levels of Firefighter I/II and Hazardous Materials First Responder Operations by the Massachusetts Fire Training Council, which is accredited by the National Board on Fire Service Professional Qualifications.

Matthews still appears to have love for MMA. He competed in a IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu Championship in Boston last year and also teaches at Moms MMA Basement in Mattapoisett. Becoming a Fall River firefighter adds another level to the service he has already committed to the community and his country.