Charles Rosa (born August 24, 1986) is an American professional mixed martial artist currently competing in the Featherweight division. A professional since 2012, he is most notable for his time in the Ultimate Fighting Championship.
Background
Charles, of Italian descent is the son of Chucky and Mary Rosa and was born and raised in Peabody, Massachusetts. Rosa's father, grandfather, and uncle were all professional boxers. Rosa had two older brothers, Domenic and Vincent, who both died from accidental drug overdoses. He also has a sister, Teresa, and two younger brothers, Lucas and Francis. Growing up, Rosa played football, hockey, lacrosse, and also trained in karate.
Rosa continued playing lacrosse at Johnson & Wales University, where he also earned a degree in the culinary arts. After graduating from the college, Rosa later relocated to Florida to find a fresh start. Looking for a boxing gym, Rosa stumbled upon American Top Team gym, where he began to train in mixed martial arts.