Jalin Turner: Reborn with a Terrifying New Purpose
The Fighter Who Found His Way Back: Turner’s Story of Faith, Friends, and Second Chances
Meet Turner: The Fighter Who Almost Quit
Imagine training for years, getting really good at something, but then waking up one day and not wanting to do it anymore. That’s exactly what happened to Turner.
- Pro since 2016 – He’s been fighting professionally for almost a decade
- Started at Jackson-Wink MMA – This famous gym in Albuquerque, New Mexico helped shape his early career
- Was ready to hang up his gloves – He genuinely wanted to retire and walk away
Important Point: Even top athletes sometimes lose their passion. What matters is what happens next.
The Turning Point: Finding a Bigger "Why"
Turner didn’t come back because he suddenly loved training again. He came back because something deeper pulled him back.
How It Happened (Step by Step)
- He prayed about it – Turner grew in his faith and started talking to God about his future
- He felt a clear message – He sensed God telling him: "You have talent. You have a light to shine. There’s more for you to do here."
- He chose obedience – Even though he didn’t want to fight, he decided to do it anyway
- Love followed action – Surprisingly, a new love for fighting grew after he made the decision
Important Point: Sometimes purpose comes before passion. You don’t always feel like doing something before you start—you start, and the feeling follows.
A New Training Home: Bloodline Combat Sports
When Turner decided to return, he didn’t go it alone. He reconnected with an old friend.
The Cub Swanson Connection
- Known each other since age 18 – They go way back to the Jackson-Wink days
- Cub now owns Bloodline Combat Sports – His own gym and fight team
- Trained there for two camps now – First for the Edson Barboza fight (December), now for the Fernandes fight
Why This Team Matters
- Familiar faces, fresh energy – "We’ve kind of got a cool crew"
- Seeing others succeed fuels him – Watching teammate Richie Miranda make it to the UFC reminded Turner: "I’m right here and I’ve got this opportunity; I don’t want to waste it."
- Hunger is contagious – Being around people chasing dreams keeps you chasing yours
The Mindset Shift: Results Are Not His Burden
This might be the most powerful part of Turner’s story.
His Honest Prayer
"You asked me, You want me in this area, You want me to do it, so I will do it. But the results are honestly on You because You want me to be here, so I’m here."
What This Means (In Simple Terms)
| Old Mindset | New Mindset |
|---|---|
| "I have to win or I failed" | "I showed up. That’s my job." |
| Pressure to perform | Freedom to trust |
| Fear of losing | Peace in obedience |
Important Point: When you fight (or work, or create) for a purpose bigger than winning, the pressure lifts. You show up. You give your best. The outcome isn’t yours to carry.
Summary: What We Can Learn From Turner
- It’s okay to want to quit – Even pros feel burned out
- Purpose can find you when you’re not looking – Turner wasn’t chasing a comeback; it chased him
- Community matters – The right team (Bloodline) and the right people (Cub, Richie) make the hard days doable
- Obedience > feelings – He didn’t feel like fighting. He did it anyway. The joy came later.
- Surrender the results – Do your part. Let go of the rest.
FAQ: Your Questions Answered
Who is Turner fighting next?
He’s preparing for a bout against Fernandes. This comes after his December fight with Edson Barboza.
What is Jackson-Wink MMA?
A world-famous gym in Albuquerque, New Mexico where many UFC champions have trained. Turner started his pro career there.
Who is Cub Swanson?
A UFC veteran and Turner’s longtime friend (since age 18). He now owns Bloodline Combat Sports, the gym where Turner currently trains.
What does "the results are on You" mean?
Turner believes God called him back to fighting. So he trusts that if he shows up and does his part, the outcome (win or lose) is in God’s hands—not his to stress over.
Who is Richie Miranda?
A teammate at Bloodline Combat Sports who recently earned a UFC contract. His success inspired Turner to make the most of his own opportunity.
Final Thought: Turner’s story isn’t just about fighting. It’s about showing up when you don’t want to, trusting a bigger plan, and finding your people. Whatever your "octagon" is—work, school, parenting, art—maybe the next right step isn’t feeling ready. Maybe it’s just being obedient to the call.