Raphael Assuncao

Raphael O. Assunção^[is a Brazilian mixed martial artist born on July 19th 1982 who fights in the bantamweight division of the UFC.

Originally from Recife, Brazil, Assuncao now trains in Atlanta alongside his brothers.

Raphael Assuncao – Photo by MMAjunkie

Raphael Assuncao’s career before the UFC

Raphael Assuncao made his amateur MMA debut in 2003 and only fought once as an amateur, a fight he won. He made his pro debut in 2004 and won his first 9 fights, notably beating Jorge Masvidal and Joe Lauzon. His first professional loss was a majority decision loss to Jeff Curran.

Assuncao started another winning streak, this time six fight, two of them in the WEC.

He lost two straight fights in the UFC to Urijah Faber and Diego Nunes. Faber was the first man to finish Assuncao in his career. After defeating L.C. Davis at WEC 52 – Faber vs. Mizugaki the WEC fighters were transferred to the UFC.

Raphael Assuncao’s career in the UFC

Raphael Assuncao lost his UFC debut to rising star Erik Koch at UFC 128 – Shogun vs. Jones. Assuncao. He rebounded with an incredible winning streak of seven fights, notably beating future champion T.J. Dillashaw, top contenders Bryan Caraway and Pedro Munhoz.

Raphael Assuncao vs. Aljamain Sterling – Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

He rematched Dillashaw at UFC 200 – Tate vs. Nunes and lost a close decision.

Since the decision loss Assuncao rebounded again with split decision wins against Aljamain “Funkmaster” Sterling and spoiled the debut of Marlon Moraes.