Ronaldo Souza

BIOGRAPHY

Ronaldo Souza dos Santos, better known by his nickname “Jacare,” is a Brazilian former professional mixed martial artist, submission grappler, and accomplished 4th-degree Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ) black belt, for which he achieved recognition under the expert tutelage of Henrique Machado. Born into a cafuzo family on December 7, 1979, in Vila Velha, Brazil, Souza was raised under challenging circumstances in Cariacica. After a tragic event that witnessed the death of a close friend on his 15th birthday, his mother decided to move him to Manaus to live with his brother. It was here he began training in Judo and Brazilian jiujitsu at the age of 17.

Souza has a varied and substantial list of accolades and championships to his name. Notably, he is an eight-time World Jiu-Jitsu Champion and has secured gold medals in the Openweight class in 2003, 2004, and 2005. His illustrious BJJ career saw him attain multiple championships, including being a two-time black belt World Champion, ADCC Submission Fighting World Champion, CBJJO World Cup Champion, Brazilian National Champion, and European Open Champion. He joined the ranks of Roger Gracie and Marcelo Garcia as one of the greatest BJJ practitioners of his time. In recognition of his outstanding achievements in the sport, Souza was inducted into the ADCC Hall of Fame as part of the 2024 class.

His transition from BJJ to professional mixed martial arts (MMA) took place in 2003. Souza’s first MMA fight was in the inaugural event of Jungle Fight, where he lost to Jorge “Macaco” Patino in the first round. He redeemed himself, however, in the following matches, showcasing his submission prowess by defeating opponents Alexander Shlemenko and Victor Babkir among others. Souza’s MMA career flourished as he participated in significant MMA events, competing in UFC from 2013 to 2021, becoming the former Strikeforce Middleweight Champion, and contending for DREAM and Jungle Fight.

In 2006, Souza fought UFC Hall of Famer Randy Couture in a gripping grappling contest that ended in a draw. Following that bout, Souza started training with Couture at Xtreme Couture in Las Vegas. Later, he joined various training camps, including training with Saulo and Xande Ribeiro in San Diego and Anderson Silva and André Galvão at the Black House in preparation for Silva’s bout with Thales Leites at UFC 97. Souza’s journey with UFC was prolific, winning against formidable opponents like Tim Kennedy, Robbie Lawler, Vitor Belfort, and Chris Weidman. Despite a few losses, Souza always came back stronger, showcasing improved skills and tactical acuity.

Not only did Souza demonstrate exceptional talent inside the cage, but he also proved courageous outside of it. In 2020, he had to withdraw from a fight after being tested positive for COVID-19. Following recovery, he faced Kevin Holland in 2021, but was defeated. One of his major setbacks came during his match with André Muniz in May 2021; his right humerus snapped when he fell prey to an armbar, which required surgery. This match was the last of his contract, and UFC decided not to re-sign Souza.

On August 10, 2021, Souza announced his retirement from MMA, hinting at a possible return to BJJ. However, surprising his fans, he later confirmed his participation in a boxing match against fellow MMA veteran, Vitor Belfort, in April 2023. Despite losing the match, Souza remained a formidable force in combat sports.

Away from the limelight, Souza leads a fulfilling personal life. He is married to Larissa Carvalho and together they share three children. With a passion for training future champions, in 2020, Souza commenced planning his own BJJ Academy in Orlando, Florida. His fighting spirit remains undeterred, and he continues to excel in the sports industry, demonstrating an unlikely resilience that maintains his status as one of Brazil’s most respected sports figures. Souza’s illustrious career in both BJJ and MMA attests to his skill, strength, and relentless passion for his craft.

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

What Is Ronaldo Souza's Record?
Ronaldo Souza's record in the UFC is 26 wins, 10 losses, and 0 draws.

What Is Ronaldo Souza's Profile On Sherdog?
Ronaldo "Jacare" Souza's profile on Sherdog includes his comprehensive fight history, records, statistics, and bio information.

Who Is Ronaldo Souza Gato Galactico?
Ronaldo Azevedo Souza, better known as Gato Galáctico, is a successful Brazilian YouTuber, cartoonist, and designer recognized for creating children's content.

What Is The Net Worth Of Ronaldo Souza?
The exact net worth of Ronaldo Souza as of 2023 is unknown.

Who Won The Fight Between Ronaldo Souza And Vitor Belfort?
Vitor Belfort won the fight against Ronaldo Souza via unanimous decision at the Gamebred Boxing 4 co-main event on April 2, 2023.

Who Is Ronaldo Souza In Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?
Ronaldo Souza is a renowned Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner, having multiple World Championships to his name along with prestigious titles such as ADCC Submission Fighting World Champion and CBJJO World Cup Champion, before transitioning to MMA and competing in the UFC.

What Is Ronaldo Souza's Tapology?
Ronaldo Souza's Tapology is a comprehensive profile on a website that documents his career as an MMA fighter.

Who Won The Fight Between Ronaldo Souza And Yoel Romero?
Yoel Romero won the fight against Ronaldo Souza via a 3 Round Decision.

Who Is Ronaldo Souza In MMA?
Ronaldo Souza is a decorated Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu champion and professional MMA fighter, who competed in the UFC from 2013 to 2021 after transitioning to MMA in 2003.