Baroni then attended Hofstra University before transferring to Central Michigan University, where he was a double major in biology and psychology and earned his degree in psychology. Between the ages of 17 and 20, he was also an amateur bodybuilder, competing in six shows in which he placed either first or second. He studied kickboxing under Keith Trimble, participated in seven matches, winning all by knockout. He also competed in 10 amateur boxing matches, winning all 10 by knockout. Baroni debuted in the UFC in only his second professional fight, at UFC 30 in Atlantic City, New Jersey. He competed against fellow striking specialist Curtis Stout, and Baroni won by unanimous decision. He was an undefeated 3-0 before getting his second fight with the UFC at UFC 34 against Matt Lindland, whom Baroni would develop a rivalry with later in their careers.