Junior Assuncao is a Brazilian mixed martial artist who has made his mark in the world of MMA, particularly in the UFC’s featherweight division.
Known for his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu skills and submission prowess, Assuncao has had a career spanning over a decade, facing some of the toughest opponents in the sport.
This article teaches you about Junior Assuncao’s net worth, salary, career earnings, contract, stats, wife, career overview, and more.
Junior Assuncao’s Biography
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Cleuder Ferreira Assunção Júnior |
| Nickname | “Junior” |
| Born | June 24, 1981 |
| Age | 42 (as of 2024) |
| College | – |
| Reach | 71 in (180 cm) |
| Nationality | Brazilian |
| Height | 5’9″ (175 cm) |
| Turned Pro | 2004 |
| Net Worth | Estimated $1-5 million |
| Salary | Varies per fight |
| Years active | 2004-2018 |
| Relationship Status | Unknown |
| Instagram Profile | @juniorassuncaomma |
Early Career
Junior Assuncao’s journey in martial arts began with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, where he earned his black belt.
Growing up in Brazil, a country known for producing world-class fighters, Assuncao was exposed to combat sports from a young age.
He trained in various disciplines, including boxing and wrestling, to complement his grappling skills.
Assuncao’s natural talent and dedication to the sport quickly became evident, leading him to pursue a career in professional MMA.
Professional Career
Assuncao made his professional MMA debut in 2004, quickly establishing himself as a formidable opponent in the regional circuit.
His Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu background proved a significant advantage, allowing him to secure numerous victories via submission.
In 2006, Assuncao’s skills caught the attention of the UFC, and he was signed to the promotion. His UFC debut came at UFC 64 in October 2006, where he faced Kurt Pellegrino.
Over the years, he has had multiple stints in the UFC, facing notable opponents such as Nate Diaz and Ross Pearson.
Assuncao has also competed in other promotions outside of the UFC, including Xtreme Fighting Championships (XFC) and Premium Fight Championship (PFC).
Junior Assuncao’s Net Worth Details
As of 2026, Junior Assuncao’s net worth is estimated to be between $1-5 million.
Fight Purses
| Event | Opponent | Result | Purse |
|---|---|---|---|
| UFC 141 | Ross Pearson | Loss | $12,000 |
| UFC 135 | Eddie Yagin | Win | $12,000 ($6,000 to show, $6,000 win bonus) |
| UFC 70 | David Lee | Win | $6,000 ($3,000 to show, $3,000 win bonus) |
| UFC 64 | Kurt Pellegrino | Loss | $3,000 |
Career Records
| Opponent | Event | Result | Method | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nate Diaz | UFC Fight Night 11 | Loss | Submission (Guillotine Choke) | 2007 |
| Ross Pearson | UFC 141 | Loss | Unanimous Decision | 2011 |
| Eddie Yagin | UFC 135 | Win | Unanimous Decision | 2011 |
| John Mahlow | XFC 10 | Win | Submission (Guillotine Choke) | 2010 |
| Dustin Hazelett | Full Throttle 3 | Win | TKO | 2005 |
FAQs
1. Who is Junior Assuncao?
Junior Assuncao is a Brazilian mixed martial artist born on June 24, 1981, in Recife, Brazil. He is a professional fighter who has competed in the lightweight and featherweight divisions, holding championships in Xtreme Fighting Championships and Premium Fight Championship.
2. What is Junior Assuncao’s martial arts background?
Junior Assuncao has a strong background in multiple martial arts disciplines. He holds black belts in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Capoeira. He is also trained in Boxing, Judo, Muay Thai, and Wrestling, with Capoeira being his foundational martial art.
3. What are Junior Assuncao’s notable achievements in MMA?
He has won championships in two promotions: the XFC Lightweight Championship and the PFC Featherweight Championship. His professional record stands at 16 wins and 7 losses, with victories by knockout, submission, and decision.
4. Which fighting organizations has Junior Assuncao competed in?
Junior Assuncao has competed in several major MMA organizations, including the UFC, Xtreme Fighting Championships (XFC), and King of the Cage. He has had multiple stints in the UFC, with two separate periods of competition.
5. What is unique about Junior Assuncao’s fighting style?
His fighting style is heavily influenced by Capoeira, a Brazilian martial art known for acrobatic movements, kicks, and core strength. He incorporates techniques of agility, balance, and practical strength from his 12 years of Capoeira training.
