He wrestled for Ohio State University from 2006-2010 at 149lbs.
In 2010, Palmer was champion of the Big Ten Conference and NCAA runner-up.
On December 7, 2013, Palmer made his World Series of Fighting debut at WSOF 7 against Bellator veteran Georgi Karakhanyan for the inaugural WSOF Featherweight Championship. He lost via guillotine choke in the third round.
On December 13, 2014, Palmer challenged Rick Glenn for the WSOF Featherweight Championship at WSOF 16. He won via rear naked submission in the third round to become the WSOF Featherweight Champion.
On December 18, 2015, Palmer made the second defense of the WSOF Featherweight Championship at WSOF 26 against Alex Andre Almeida. He lost via unanimous decision.
On May 10, 2016, it was announced that Palmer will have a rematch against Alex Andre Almeida for the WSOF Featherweight Championship at WSOF 32 on July 30, 2016 in the co-main event. He won via unanimous decision to become a two time WSOF Featherweight Champion.
