Rafael Alves

Fighter Facts

• Pro since 2007
   
• Seven wins by KO, seven by submission (2 Guillotine, 4 RNC, undisclosed submission)
   
• Eight first round finishes
   
• Has won five of his last six
   
• Holds 2016 win over UFC vet Yoislandy Izquierdo
   
• Also faced UFC vet Vagner Rocha in 2016

UFC HISTORY

UFC Fight Night (5/22/21) Rafael Alves lost a three round unanimous decision to Damir Ismagulov

Dana White's Contender Series, Season 4
Episode 4 (8/25/20) Alves submitted Alejandro Flores via guillotine choke at 2:55 of the second round

Q&A

When and why did you start training for fighting? I started training at the age of seven, in a backyard gym. Before I started training my trainer saw me fighting in the streets, so he called me to train and that’s where it all started.
What ranks and titles have you held? In my city in Icoaraci I have several Muay Thai tittles as well as titles in Jiu-Jitsu. Black belt in Muay Thai, black belt in Jiu-Jitsu, Titan FC 155 champion.
Do you have any heroes? My hero will always be my father. With difficult times growing up he never left anything missing for me. He died a hero for me. This is my hero, my father, with pride.
What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? Everything. It is the dream of all athletes to arrive at the biggest event in the world and for me it is no different when I step into the Octagon.
Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I never went to college but I finished my studies.
What was your job before you started fighting? I was a soccer player
Favorite grappling technique: Heel hook
Favorite Striking technique: Superman punch