Fabricio Werdum, the Brazilian mixed martial arts legend, has left an indelible mark on the sport of MMA.
Known for his exceptional grappling skills and versatile fighting style, Werdum has competed at the highest levels of the sport for over two decades.
As we look at his career in 2025, let’s dive into the details of his personal life, professional achievements, earnings, and lasting impact on the world of mixed martial arts.
Fabricio Werdum’s Biography
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Fabricio Werdum |
| Nickname | Vai Cavalo (Go Horse) |
| Born | July 30, 1977 |
| Age | 47 |
| Nationality | Brazilian |
| Height | 6’4″ (1.93 m) |
| Weight | 109 kg (240 lbs) |
| Turned Pro | 2002 |
| Net Worth | $1 million |
| Spouse | Karine Groff Werdum |
| Relationship Status | Married |
| Instagram Profile | @fabriciowerdum |
Fabricio Werdum was born in Porto Alegre, Brazil, and has become one of the most respected figures in mixed martial arts.
He is fluent in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, having lived in Spain for 10 years.
Early Career
Werdum’s journey into martial arts began unexpectedly when he was choked unconscious by his girlfriend’s ex-boyfriend, who practiced Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
This incident sparked Werdum’s interest in the sport, and he began training at the Winner-Behring Academy under Marcio Corletta.
His natural talent quickly became apparent, and he won his first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu World Championship as a blue belt in 2000.
Professional Career
Transitioning to MMA in 2002, Werdum quickly made a name for himself in various promotions. He competed in PRIDE, where he faced top-tier opponents and honed his skills.
His breakthrough came in Strikeforce, where he famously submitted Fedor Emelianenko in 2010, ending the Russian’s decade-long unbeaten streak.
This victory catapulted Werdum into the spotlight and set the stage for his successful UFC career, which included winning the heavyweight championship in 2015 by defeating Cain Velasquez.
Wife
Fabricio Werdum is married to Karine Groff Werdum, a public relations specialist and founder of a photography business.
The couple tied the knot in 2003 and have two daughters together, Joanna and Julia.
Fabricio Werdum’s Net Worth Details
Fabricio Werdum’s net worth is estimated to be $1 million as of 2025. This figure reflects his earnings from his fighting career, sponsorships, and various business ventures.
Fight Purses
| Event | Opponent | Purse |
|---|---|---|
| UFC 198 | Stipe Miocic | $540,000 |
| UFC 203 | Travis Browne | $375,000 |
| UFC 216 | Walt Harris | $400,000 |
| UFC Fight Night 127 | Alexander Volkov | $465,000 |
| UFC on ESPN 14 | Alexander Gustafsson | $100,000 |
Endorsements
- Kings MMA
- Venum
- Reebok (during UFC partnership)
- Pretorian Hard Sports
- Bad Boy
Career Records
| Opponent | Result | Method | Event | Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fedor Emelianenko | Win | Submission | Strikeforce: Fedor vs. Werdum | June 26, 2010 |
| Cain Velasquez | Win | Submission | UFC 188 | June 13, 2015 |
| Mark Hunt | Win | TKO | UFC 180 | November 15, 2014 |
| Alistair Overeem | Win | Decision | UFC 213 | July 8, 2017 |
| Stipe Miocic | Loss | KO | UFC 198 | May 14, 2016 |
FAQs
What is Fabricio Werdum’s most famous victory?
Werdum’s submission victory over Fedor Emelianenko in 2010 is widely considered his most famous win, as it ended Fedor’s decade-long unbeaten streak.
How many languages does Fabricio Werdum speak?
Werdum is fluent in three languages: Portuguese, English, and Spanish.
When did Fabricio Werdum win the UFC Heavyweight Championship?
Werdum won the UFC Heavyweight Championship on June 13, 2015, by defeating Cain Velasquez at UFC 188.
What is Fabricio Werdum’s nickname and its origin?
Werdum’s nickname is “Vai Cavalo,” which means “Go Horse” in Portuguese. He received this nickname in his youth while playing soccer.
Has Fabricio Werdum ever worked as a commentator?
Yes, Werdum has worked as a Spanish-language commentator for the UFC.
What is Fabricio Werdum’s background in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?
Werdum is a highly accomplished Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner, holding a black belt and multiple world championships in the sport.
How many children does Fabricio Werdum have?
Fabricio Werdum has two daughters with his wife Karine.
What prompted Fabricio Werdum to start training in martial arts?
Werdum began training after being choked unconscious by his girlfriend’s ex-boyfriend, who practiced Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Has Fabricio Werdum ever faced any suspensions in his career?
Yes, Werdum faced a USADA suspension in 2018 for a failed drug test, which was later reduced to 10 months.
What is Fabricio Werdum doing post-retirement from active competition?
Post-retirement, Werdum has focused on coaching at his Werdum Combat Team in Venice, California, and continues to be involved in MMA through commentary and analysis roles.
