Rafael Lovato Jr.
Black
Biography
Rafael Lovato Jr. is an American Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt, MMA world champion, and one of the most accomplished competitors to ever emerge from the United States. Known for his refined technique, disciplined pressure, and complete skill set in both gi and no-gi, Lovato Jr. is widely regarded as a pioneer who helped put American jiu-jitsu on the global map.
His no-gi career includes major wins at IBJJF No-Gi Worlds, a silver medal at ADCC, and numerous high-level superfights. Lovato Jr. built his reputation on heavy top control, strong passing mechanics, and tight, methodical submission chains from dominant positions.
Lovato Jr. later transitioned to mixed martial arts, competing for Bellator MMA, where he captured the Bellator Middleweight World Championship while maintaining an undefeated record. His MMA game—built around elite grappling, superior positional awareness, and precise finishing ability—cemented him as one of the most successful jiu-jitsu athletes to cross into professional fighting.
Personal
* Legend status is reserved for retired athletes with outstanding achievements and a lasting impact on the sport.
Rankings
| Opponent | Result | Date | Event | Method | Weight | Round | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Giancarlo Bodoni | Win | 11/16/2025 | ONE 173 | Decision | Absolute | — | 375 |
| Michael Pixley | Win | 2024 | ADCC | Decision | 99KG | Semi-Finals | 831 |
| Kaynan Duarte | Loss | 2024 | ADCC | Rear naked | -99KG | Finals | — |
| Felipe Pena | Loss | 2024 | WNO 23 | Decision | 93KG | — | — |
| Craig Jones | Loss | 2024 | UFC FPI 6 | Inside heel hook | Absolute | — | — |
| Elder Cruz | Win | 2023 | WNO 18 | Rear naked | 92KG | — | 319 |
| Pedro Marinho | Loss | 2023 | WNO 21 | Decision | 94KG | — | — |
| Nicholas Meregali | Loss | 2022 | ADCC | Penalty | 99KG | — | — |
| Kaynan Duarte | Loss | 2022 | ADCC | Decision | -99KG | Semi-Finals | — |
| Nicholas Meregali | Loss | 2022 | WNO 14 | Decision | 93KG | — | — |
| Fellipe Andrew | Loss | 2021 | No-Gi Worlds | Points: 4-0 | 97KG | 16 | — |
| Roberto Abreu | Loss | 2020 | Sub Stars | Points | N/A | — | — |
| Josh Hinger | Win | 2018 | F2W 95 | Decision | 88KG | — | 11 |
| Felipe Pena | Loss | 2017 | ADCC | Decision | 99KG | Semi-Finals | — |