Connor Soberay

Fighting For Success

Connor Soberay, a Lynn University senior from Anchorage, Alaska, made his amateur MMA

(mixed martial arts) debut earlier this year, winning in the second round by submission, and

hopes to further his career by participating in the PFL (Professional Fighters League) in the

upcoming years before utilizing his political science degree and attending law school to become a public defense attorney.

Though still early in his MMA career, Soberay is committed to training rigorously 6 days a week while pursuing a political science degree. “I've always been drawn to competition and testing myself mentally and physically,” said Soberay.

Soberay trains at the American Combat Gym under his coach, Matt Wagy, and Charles

McCarthy. Soberay’s goal is to eventually compete professionally in the PFL after college,

setting his sights on fighting in the 155-weight class.

When asked about his long-term career plans, Soberay explained that after graduating from Lynn University, he would take some time off school to make his professional debut and concentrate on his personal development and training.

Soberay’s goals go further than just fighting. After taking a few years off to train, he plans to

attend law school and become a public defense attorney. “Everyone deserves proper

representation and a good lawyer, regardless of income or background.” Soberay said,

“Everyone questions defense attorneys can represent certain people until it's their kid or loved

one who’s in trouble.”

His motivation for the law stems from watching his father, a defense attorney in Anchorage,

have an unwavering commitment to helping people in need. Soberay also wants to help people and ensure fairness and equality in the legal system. Soberay said, “My goal is to do what I love for a living, whether it be fighting or becoming a lawyer.”

Although his schedule is demanding, Soberay enjoys spending time with friends, reading, and

cooking in his free time. His favorite book is A Farewell to Arms by Earnest Hemingway, “I

enjoy books that put you into the perspective of the main character, and I find that Hemingway’s writing tends to elicit a lot of different emotions while reading.”

In addition to Soberay’s training and school schedule, he has worked several jobs over the years and works at Flybird, a popular chicken restaurant in Delray Beach. His ability to manage his time effectively allows him to juggle work, school, and MMA training.

“Working and balancing school and training hasn’t been the easiest, but it defiantly helped me learn how to manage stress and stay organized so I can get everything that needs to be done,” said Soberay.

As Soberay prepares for his next fight and continues his education, he remains focused on

building a future that combines his passion for competition and desire to help others. Soberay is determined to carve out a meaningful path for his life, making the most of the time he has left at Lynn University and proving that hard work and determination can fuel success inside and outside the cage.