Brazilian · Fortaleza, Brazil · Born 30 January 1984Brazilian heavyweight knockout artist who won UFC gold with a 64-second KO of Cain Velasquez in 2011.
Junior dos Santos was born on 30 January 1984 in Caçador, Santa Catarina, Brazil, and was raised by his mother, Maria, alongside two siblings after his father, Sebastian, who struggled with alcoholism, left the family in the mid-1990s. Dos Santos, nicknamed "Cigano" (Gypsy), turned professional in mixed martial arts in 2006, training with American Top Team, and developed into one of the most feared boxers in the UFC heavyweight division, renowned for his fast hands and finishing power. Dos Santos won the UFC Heavyweight Championship in November 2011, knocking out Cain Velasquez in just 64 seconds at the promotion's network television debut event, before engaging in a celebrated trilogy with Velasquez across the following two years. Dos Santos has continued competing at the top level of MMA well into his forties, later becoming the Gamebred Bareknuckle MMA Heavyweight Champion, and briefly pursued professional wrestling with All Elite Wrestling, remaining one of the most respected and enduring heavyweights in the sport's history.
Former UFC Heavyweight Champion; part of the Velasquez trilogy
How They Played
Dos Santos was renowned for his exceptional boxing skills and knockout power, possessing some of the best hands in the heavyweight division. His striking was characterized by crisp technique, excellent footwork, and devastating uppercuts that could end fights instantly.
Lasting Impact
He helped elevate the profile of heavyweight MMA during his championship reign and trilogy with Cain Velasquez, showcasing technical striking at the highest level of the sport.
Career Honours
- UFC Heavyweight Champion 2011-2012
- Gamebred Bareknuckle MMA Heavyweight Champion, post-UFC
Brazilian Athletes