Emmanuel Sanchez, known as “El Matador” in the world of mixed martial arts, has made a significant impact in the lightweight division.
With a career spanning over a decade, Sanchez has showcased his skills in various promotions, most notably in Bellator MMA.
This article teaches you about Emmanuel Sanchez’s net worth, salary, career earnings, contract, stats, wife, career overview, and more.
Emmanuel Sanchez’s Biography
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Emmanuel Sanchez |
| Nickname | El Matador |
| Born | August 11, 1990 |
| Age | 34 |
| College | – |
| Reach | 70.0″ (178cm) |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 5’9″ (175.26 cm) |
| Net Worth | $1-5 million |
| Salary | Varies per fight |
| Relationship Status | Single |
| Instagram Profile | @matadorsanchez |
Early Career
Emmanuel Sanchez began his professional MMA career in November 2011.
Born and raised in a lower-middle-class family of Mexican immigrants, Sanchez developed an interest in MMA and Brazilian jiu-jitsu during his high school years.
After a successful amateur career, Sanchez turned pro and quickly made a name for himself in the regional circuit.
Professional Career
Sanchez’s professional career took off when he signed with Bellator MMA in 2014. He made his promotional debut at Bellator 128, winning via rear-naked choke submission in the first round.
Throughout his time with Bellator, Sanchez faced numerous high-profile opponents and consistently proved himself as a top contender in the featherweight division.
He participated in the Bellator Featherweight World Grand Prix, reaching the semifinals before losing to Patricio Freire in a championship bout.
Sanchez’s fighting style combines strong striking with excellent submission skills, making him a well-rounded and dangerous opponent.
Emmanuel Sanchez’s Net Worth Details
As of 2026, Emmanuel Sanchez’s net worth is estimated to be between $1-5 million.
Fight Purses
| Event | Purse(s) |
|---|---|
| Bellator 226 | $110,000 ($55,000 to show, $55,000 to win) |
| Bellator 252 | $110,000 ($55,000 to show, $55,000 to win) |
MMA Career Records
| Opponent | Result | Event | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kenneth Cross | Loss | XFC 51: Evolution | September 27, 2024 |
| Yannick Yuji Ephoeviga | Loss | TTF Challenge 10 | August 16, 2024 |
| Peter Petties | Win | Anthony Pettis FC 11 | May 25, 2024 |
| Patricio Freire | Loss | Bellator 255 | April 2, 2021 |
| Daniel Weichel | Win | Bellator 252 | November 12, 2020 |
FAQs
1. Who is Emmanuel Sanchez?
Emmanuel Sanchez, nicknamed “El Matador,” is an American mixed martial artist born on August 11, 1990. He competes in the Lightweight division and has been a professional since 2011. He is known for his time in Bellator MMA, where he was a contender for the Featherweight World Championship.
2. What is Emmanuel Sanchez’s fighting style?
Sanchez utilizes a mix of Brazilian jiu-jitsu, karate, and striking techniques. He is recognized for his cardio, relentless pace, and submission skills, earning nine of his wins via submission.
3. What is Emmanuel Sanchez’s professional MMA record?
As of 2024, Sanchez has a professional MMA record of 22 wins and 11 losses. His victories include one by knockout, nine by submission, and 12 by decision.
4. What are some of Emmanuel Sanchez’s career highlights?
Key highlights include victories over Daniel Straus via triangle choke at Bellator 184 and Tywan Claxton via submission at Bellator 226. He also competed in the Bellator Featherweight World Grand Prix.
5. Has Emmanuel Sanchez ever fought for a world title?
Yes, Sanchez has fought for the Bellator Featherweight World Championship twice against Patrício Freire but lost both bouts—once by unanimous decision in 2018 and again via technical submission in 2021.
