Cláudia Gadelha, known as “Claudinha” in the world of mixed martial arts, is a former UFC fighter who made a significant impact in the women‘s strawweight division.
Her journey from a small town in Brazil to becoming a top-ranked UFC contender is a testament to her dedication and skill in the sport.
This article will teach you about Claudia Gadelha’s net worth, salary, career earnings, contract, stats, wife, career overview, and more.
Claudia Gadelha’s Biography
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ana Cláudia Dantas Gadelha |
| Nickname | Claudinha |
| Birth Date | December 7, 1988 |
| Age | 35 |
| Nationality | Brazilian |
| Height | 5’3″ (160 cm) |
| Weight Class | Strawweight (115 lbs / 52.2 kg) |
| Net Worth | Estimated $1-3 million |
| Relationship Status | Single |
| @claudiagadelha |
Early Career
Cláudia Gadelha’s journey in martial arts began at age 14 when she started training in secret.
Growing up in Mossoró, Brazil, she faced initial resistance from her parents but found her passion after witnessing a female MMA fight.
Her encounter with Jair Lourenço led her to train at Nova União, a renowned MMA gym.
This marked the beginning of her dedication to martial arts, which not only shaped her career but also helped her steer clear of negative influences in her life.
Professional Career
Gadelha made her professional MMA debut in 2008 and quickly rose through the ranks in the Brazilian circuit. She amassed an impressive undefeated record before joining the UFC in 2014.
Her UFC debut was a successful one, defeating Tina Lähdemäki by unanimous decision.
Gadelha’s career in the UFC was marked by high-profile fights, including 2 memorable bouts against Joanna Jędrzejczyk for the strawweight title.
Although she fell short in these title attempts, Gadelha remained a top contender in the division throughout her career.
Her fighting style, characterized by strong grappling and improved striking, made her a formidable opponent for anyone in the strawweight division.
Claudia Gadelha’s Net Worth Details
Claudia Gadelha’s net worth is estimated to be between $1-3 million as of 2025.
Fight Purses
| Event | Opponent | Purse |
|---|---|---|
| UFC 239 | Randa Markos | $102,000 ($51,000 to show, $51,000 win bonus) |
| UFC 225 | Carla Esparza | $103,000 ($49,000 to show, $49,000 win bonus, $5,000 fight week incentive pay) |
| UFC 212 | Karolina Kowalkiewicz | $103,000 ($49,000 to show, $49,000 win bonus, $5,000 Reebok sponsorship) |
Endorsements
Throughout her career, Gadelha had several endorsements, including:
- Reebok (during their partnership with UFC)
- Venum (current UFC apparel sponsor)
- Various Brazilian brands
UFC Records
| Opponent | Result | Event | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Joanna Jędrzejczyk | Loss | TUF 23 Finale | July 8, 2016 |
| Jessica Andrade | Loss | UFC Fight Night 117 | September 22, 2017 |
| Carla Esparza | Win | UFC 225 | June 9, 2018 |
| Nina Nunes | Loss | UFC 231 | December 8, 2018 |
| Xiaonan Yan | Loss | UFC on ESPN 17 | November 7, 2020 |
FAQs
1. What is Cláudia Gadelha’s most significant achievement in the UFC?
While Gadelha never won a UFC title, her most significant achievement was likely her 2 close fights against Joanna Jędrzejczyk, which were highly competitive and showcased her skills at the highest level.
2. How did Cláudia Gadelha get into MMA?
Gadelha started training in secret at age 14 after being inspired by watching a female MMA fight. She later joined Nova União gym, which set her on the path to becoming a professional fighter.
3. What is Cláudia Gadelha doing after retirement from MMA?
After retiring in 2021, Gadelha took on a role with the UFC focusing on fighter development in Brazil, helping to nurture new talent in her home country.
4. What was Cláudia Gadelha’s fighting style?
Gadelha was known for her strong grappling skills, particularly her Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, combined with improved striking as her career progressed.
5. Has Cláudia Gadelha ever won a UFC title?
No, Gadelha never won a UFC title, but she did challenge for the strawweight championship twice against Joanna Jędrzejczyk.
6. What weight class did Cláudia Gadelha compete in?
Gadelha competed in the UFC’s strawweight division, which has a weight limit of 115 pounds (52.2 kg).
7. How many fights did Cláudia Gadelha have in the UFC?
Gadelha had 13 fights in the UFC, compiling a record of 8 wins and 5 losses within the organization.
8. What is Cláudia Gadelha’s nationality?
Cláudia Gadelha is Brazilian, born in Mossoró, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil.
9. Did Cláudia Gadelha ever compete in other MMA organizations before the UFC?
Yes, before joining the UFC, Gadelha competed in various Brazilian MMA promotions and also fought for Invicta FC.
10. What is the meaning behind Cláudia Gadelha’s nickname “Claudinha”?
“Claudinha” is a diminutive form of Cláudia in Portuguese, often used as an affectionate nickname. It likely originated as a term of endearment in her early fighting days.
