Brazilian · Fortaleza, Brazil · Born 3 January 1984Brazilian mixed martial artist and former UFC Heavyweight Champion, known for his elite boxing skills and knockout power in MMA competition.
Junior dos Santos is a Brazilian heavyweight and former UFC champion known as 'Cigano' for his exceptional boxing, the finest in the heavyweight division during his prime. His first-round knockout of Cain Velasquez to win the title and his victories over Fabricio Werdum and Frank Mir demonstrate his world-class striking. A genuinely likeable personality known for his sportsmanship, dos Santos is one of the UFC's most respected heavyweights.
Winning the UFC Heavyweight Championship by knocking out Cain Velasquez in the first round at UFC on FOX 1, the first UFC title fight broadcast on network television.
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)
- UFC Heavyweight Champion (2013)
- Strikeforce Heavyweight Grand Prix Alternate
- WEC Heavyweight Champion
- Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt World Championship gold medal
- UFC Fight of the Night bonus vs Frank Mir (2008)
- UFC Knockout of the Night bonus vs Mirko Cro Cop (2008)
- UFC Knockout of the Night bonus vs Fabricio Werdum (2008)
- UFC Performance of the Night bonus
- 2011 MMA Fighter of the Year (multiple outlets)
Brazilian Athletes