Want more wrestling news, rumors, and results? Be sure to visit PWInsider.com and PWInsiderXtra.com.
UFC veteran Brad Kohler, who competed twice for the promotion at UFC 15.5 and UFC 22, has announced that he will be running for the role of the Governor of Minnesota.
A press release was issued announcing Kohler’s intentions:
Brad Kohler Announces Independent Conservative Candidate for Governor of Minnesota
Brad Kohler has formally announced his candidacy for Governor of Minnesota, declaring he will run as an Independent conservative candidate. After years of involvement within the Republican Party, Kohler is exiting the party but continuing his campaign, citing the current political climate in Minnesota as the driving force behind his decision.
Kohler first began his mission to run for governor in 2021, entering the political arena with limited experience but a strong conviction that Minnesota’s leadership was failing its communities. Motivated by concerns over public safety, economic stability, and government accountability, he committed himself to learning the political system and identifying solutions to restore the state.
Throughout his journey, Kohler has also been open about his personal background and experiences within the justice system. Like many justice-impacted individuals, he has spoken about the challenges he faced and how those experiences shaped his perspective on systemic reform. He now views his story as part of a broader mission to highlight flaws within the legal system and advocate for meaningful change.
Over the past six years, Kohler has worked alongside the Republican Party as an independent conservative, building experience through multiple campaigns. He previously ran for State Senate in District 38 in 2022, for U.S. Congress in Minnesota’s 3rd Congressional District in 2024, and for Hennepin County Commissioner District 7 in 2024.
Kohler’s decision to run as an Independent comes from his belief that both major political parties in Minnesota have become too compromised to effectively serve the people. He maintains that while there are dedicated individuals within both parties, systemic issues and political pressures have prevented real reform.
“This campaign is about the people of Minnesota, not political parties,” Kohler said. “I am running as an independent conservative because Minnesota needs leadership that is accountable, solutions-driven, and focused on restoring prosperity, safety, and opportunity for every community.”
Kohler’s campaign will focus on revitalizing Minnesota’s economy, strengthening public safety, improving the quality of education, and creating an environment where businesses can grow and families can thrive. He aims to bring forward practical solutions that encourage job growth, support young families, and restore confidence in the state’s future.
As an Independent candidate, Kohler is positioning himself as a unifying leader who can work across political lines while remaining grounded in conservative principles.
Kohler went 12-15-0 during his professional MMA career, fighting such notables as Tre Telligman, Dan Severn, Travis Fulton, Renato Sobral, Valentijn Overeem, and Alberto Rodriguez (aka Alberto Del Rio).
