Born and raised in Pennsylvania, Bastress wrestled for Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania as a freshman, before transferring to York College of Pennsylvania for his sophomore season. A two-time national champion under coach Tom Kessler, Bastress compiled an overall record of 97-6 at York. He also had an undefeated 40-0 senior season, and held a 65 match winning streak when he graduated. Bastress was later Kessler's assistant for several seasons before ascending to the head coach position.[1]
Mixed martial arts career
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.[2]
With a record of three victories and one loss, he signed with Bellator.[3]
Bellator Fighting Championships
Bastress made his debut on October 15, 2011 at Bellator 54 against Daniel Gracie. Bastress won when the doctor deemed Gracie unable to continue due to a cut over his eye at the end of the second round.[4]
Bastress faced Plinio Cruz on April 13, 2012 at Bellator 65. He won via TKO in the second round.[5]
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.[6]
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.[7] Bastress defeated Sepulveda via split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28).[8]
In May 2013—despite coming off from a win—it was announced that Bellator didn't renew Bastress' contract.[9]
Personal life
Bastress is married and has two daughters; Cora and Audrey and one son, Drake. Bastress' wife, April, was a standout field hockey player for York.[1]