Diego Ferreira has made a name for himself as a formidable competitor in the UFC’s lightweight division.
With his Brazilian jiu-jitsu background and evolving striking skills, Ferreira has become a well-rounded fighter who poses a threat to anyone in the 155-pound weight class.
Let’s take a closer look at the life and career of this talented mixed martial artist.
Diego Ferreira’s Biography
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Carlos Diego Ferreira Neves |
| Nickname | Diego |
| Born | January 18, 1985 |
| Age | 40 |
| College | Unknown |
| Religion | N/A |
| Nationality | Brazilian |
| Height | 5’9″ (175 cm) |
| Turned Pro | 2011 |
| Net Worth | Estimated $1-2 million |
| Salary | Varies per fight |
| Spouse | Yvonne Ferreira |
| Relationship Status | Married |
| Instagram Profile | @diegoufctx |
Early Career
Diego Ferreira’s martial arts journey began at the age of 10 when he started training Brazilian jiu-jitsu in his home country of Brazil.
Growing up on a ranch, Ferreira’s early life was filled with hard work and responsibility. His passion for jiu-jitsu grew, and he eventually earned his black belt at the age of 18.
This accomplishment marked a turning point in his life, as it finally convinced his father that pursuing a career in martial arts was a viable path.
Professional Career
In 2011, Ferreira made his professional MMA debut. Ferreira’s early professional career was marked by an impressive undefeated streak.
He competed primarily in Texas-based promotions, quickly making a name for himself with his grappling skills and improving striking.
His success in regional promotions, including winning the Legacy FC Lightweight Championship, caught the eye of the UFC.
In 2014, Ferreira signed with the world’s leading MMA organization, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his career.
Wife
Diego Ferreira is married to Yvonne Ferreira, who is also deeply involved in the martial arts world. Yvonne is a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt and runs her own gym called Team Ferreira.
The couple has five children together, including four boys and a daughter born in 2023.
Diego Ferreira’s Net Worth Details
Diego Ferreira’s net worth is estimated to be between $1-2 million as of 2025.
Fight Purses
| Event | Opponent | Purse |
|---|---|---|
| UFC 311 | Grant Dawson | $300,000 (show) + $100,000 (win bonus) |
| UFC Fight Night: Lewis vs. Nascimento | Mateusz Rębecki | – |
| UFC Fight Night 223 | Michael Johnson | – |
| UFC Fight Night: Lewis vs. Daukaus | Mateusz Gamrot | – |
| UFC on ESPN 24 | Gregor Gillespie | $160,500 (including $30,000 fine for missing weight) |
| UFC Fight Night 184 | Beneil Dariush | – |
| UFC 246 | Anthony Pettis | – |
Career Records
| Record | 19-5 |
|---|---|
| Wins by KO/TKO | 5 |
| Wins by Submission | 7 |
| Wins by Decision | 7 |
Notable UFC Opponents
| Opponent | Result |
|---|---|
| Grant Dawson | TBD (UFC 311) |
| Mateusz Rębecki | Win (TKO) |
| Michael Johnson | Win (KO) |
| Mateusz Gamrot | Loss (TKO) |
| Gregor Gillespie | Loss (TKO) |
| Beneil Dariush | Loss (Split Decision) |
| Anthony Pettis | Win (Submission) |
| Mairbek Taisumov | Win (Decision) |
| Rustam Khabilov | Win (Decision) |
FAQs
1. Where was Diego Ferreira born and what is his early background?
Ferreira was born on January 18, 1985, in Careiro da Várzea, Brazil. He began training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at age 10 and developed a strong foundation before moving into MMA.
2. What is Ferreira’s primary fighting style and weight division in the UFC?
Ferreira competes in the lightweight division (155 pounds), known for a well-rounded skillset featuring technical striking and high-level Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
3. When did Ferreira make his UFC debut and who was his first opponent?
Ferreira debuted in the UFC in June 2014 against Colton Smith, winning by rear-naked choke submission in the first round and establishing himself as a submission threat.
4. What notable UFC victories has Ferreira achieved?
Ferreira has earned key wins over Anthony Pettis, Rustam Khabilov, Olivier Aubin-Mercier, and Jared Gordon. His submission win over Pettis in 2020 solidified his reputation as a dangerous grappler.
5. What is Ferreira’s overall professional MMA record?
Ferreira holds a professional record of 18 wins and 6 losses. Most of his victories come by submission or decision, reflecting his endurance and technical approach.
6. Who are Ferreira’s main MMA coaches and where does he train?
Ferreira trains at Fortis MMA in Dallas, Texas, led by head coach Sayif Saud. The team focuses on conditioning, striking, and improving his submission game for high-level competition.
7. What signature moves or techniques does Ferreira favor in fights?
Ferreira specializes in rear-naked choke and armbar submissions, often using pressure on the ground to set up finishes. He complements his grappling with accurate boxing and aggressive combinations.
8. Has Ferreira faced any significant injuries or career setbacks?
Ferreira has struggled with back injuries and suffered consecutive losses from 2021 to 2022. He worked through lengthy recovery and training adjustments before returning to the win column in recent fights.
9. What recognition or awards has Ferreira received in the UFC?
Ferreira earned “Performance of the Night” honors for his win over Pettis and “Fight of the Night” in the bout against Beneil Dariush. He is respected for his toughness and fight style among fans.
10. What are Ferreira’s goals for the remainder of his UFC career?
Ferreira aims to reenter the lightweight division’s top rankings, secure more high-profile wins, and continue competing for title contention while mentoring younger fighters at Fortis MMA.
