Shawn Bunch has an extensive background in collegiate and freestyle wrestling competing in many tournaments before transitioning to MMA.  Born in Colombus, Georgia, Bunch competed in high school for Leavenworth High School and in university for Edinboro University of Pennsylvania, where he was a four-time NCAA qualifier and two-time All-American. He was also an U.S. national and Pan American champion, and two-time Olympic alternate at 133 lb (60 kg). In June 2012, he lost to Coleman Scottat a wrestle-off, which decided the final Olympic roster spot.  

Bunch then relocated to San Jose, California to begin his training for his mixed martial arts career, training alongside other wrestlers like Daniel 'DC' Cormier and Cain Velasquez at AKA.  

Amateur wrestling FILA (Freestyle wrestling) World Olympic Games Qualifying Tournament: 3rd place (2012)Pan American Olympic Qualifying Tournament: 3rd place (2012)Pan American Championships: Gold medal (2007)USA Open: Champion (2010)USA Open: Runner-up (2011)USA Nationals: Champion (2008)USA Nationals: 3rd place (2007)USA Olympic Team Trials: Runner-up (2008)USA World Team Trials: Champion (2009)USA World Team Trials: Runner-up (2011)USA World Team Trials: Runner-up (2010)USA World Team Trials: 4th place (2007)National Collegiate Athletic Association[2]NCAA Division I All-American out ofEdinboro University (2005–06)NCAA Division I 133 lb: Runner-upout of Edinboro University (2005)NCAA Division I 133 lb: 3rd placeout of Edinboro University (2006)Four-time NCAA Division I qualifier (2002–03, 2005–06)