Rafael dos Anjos (RDA) stands as one of the most resilient and versatile fighters in UFC history.
A former lightweight champion who has successfully competed across multiple weight classes, RDA is revered for his well-rounded skillset and willingness to fight anyone, anywhere. Approaching the twilight of his career in 2026, he remains a respected veteran and a significant name in mixed martial arts.
In this article, you will know Rafael dos Anjos’ net worth, career earnings, career overview, stats, relationship, and more.
Rafael dos Anjos’ Biography
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Rafael Souza dos Anjos |
| Nickname | RDA |
| Date of Birth | October 26, 1984 |
| Age | 41 |
| Nationality | Brazilian / American |
| Height | 5 ft 8 in (1.73 m) |
| Weight | 155 lbs (Lightweight) / 170 lbs (Welterweight) |
| Turned Pro | 2004 |
| Net Worth | Approx. $4.5 Million – $5 Million |
| Career Earnings | Over $6.5 Million (Estimated) |
| Wife | Cristiane dos Anjos |
| Instagram Profile | @rdosanjosmma |
| Twitter Profile | @RdosAnjosMMA |
Early Career
Rafael dos Anjos was born in Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. He admitted to being a troubled youth who often got into street fights. To channel his energy more positively, he began training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at the age of nine.
This decision fundamentally changed his life path. He eventually earned his black belt in BJJ and added Muay Thai to his arsenal, developing the aggressive style that would later define his MMA career.
He made his professional MMA debut in September 2004 in Brazil. His early career on the regional circuit was a mix of grit and learning, as he compiled a record of 11-2 before catching the eye of the UFC.
Unlike many prospects who enter the major leagues undefeated, RDA battled his way up the hard way, proving his resilience long before stepping into the Octagon.
Professional Career
RDA made his UFC debut in 2008 at UFC 91, suffering a knockout loss to Jeremy Stephens. His early UFC run was rocky, but he steadily improved, transforming from a pure grappler into a dangerous striker.
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His perseverance paid off in March 2015 at UFC 185, where he dominated Anthony Pettis to win the UFC Lightweight Championship. He successfully defended the title once against Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone, finishing him in just 66 seconds.
After losing the belt to Eddie Alvarez in 2016, dos Anjos moved up to welterweight, where he found renewed success and even fought for the interim title against Colby Covington.
In recent years, he has returned to lightweight, continuing to compete against top-tier opponents well into his late 30s. Despite suffering a major ACL injury in late 2024 against Geoff Neal, RDA has remained determined to close out his career on his own terms.
Wife
Rafael dos Anjos is married to Cristiane dos Anjos (née Gurgel). The couple has been together for many years, and Cristiane has been a pillar of support throughout his tumultuous fighting career. They famously naturalized as U.S. citizens together in 2019, cementing their life in America.
Together, they have three children. Their two sons are named Rafael and Gustavo, and they welcomed a third child later.
RDA is known as a devoted family man who prioritizes his wife and children above all else, often stating in interviews that his family is his primary motivation for fighting.
Rafael dos Anjos’ Net Worth Details
As of 2026, Rafael dos Anjos’ net worth is estimated to be approximately $4.5 million. His wealth is the result of over 15 years in the UFC, including championship pay-per-view points and consistent main event slots.
Fight Purses
| Event | Opponent | Result | Estimated Payout |
|---|---|---|---|
| UFC Fight Night | Vicente Luque | Loss | ~$416,000 |
| UFC 272 | Renato Moicano | Win | ~$350,000+ |
| UFC Fight Night | Rafael Fiziev | Loss | ~$171,000 |
| UFC Fight Night 90 | Eddie Alvarez | Loss | ~$310,000 |
| UFC 299 | Mateusz Gamrot | Loss | ~$100,000+ |
Career Earnings
| Year | Estimated Earnings |
|---|---|
| 2015 (Champ Year) | ~$1 Million+ |
| 2016-2018 | ~$1.5 Million |
| 2019-2022 | ~$1.2 Million |
| 2023-2025 | ~$800,000 |
| Total Career | ~$6.5 Million+ (Gross) |
Career Stats
| Statistic | Details |
|---|---|
| Pro Record | 32-17 (approx.) |
| UFC Titles | Lightweight Champion (2015-2016) |
| Knockout Wins | 5 |
| Submission Wins | 11 |
| Fight of the Night Bonuses | Multiple |
| Significant Strikes Landed | 2,000+ (approx.) |
FAQs
1. What is Rafael dos Anjos’ net worth?
Rafael dos Anjos has an estimated net worth of $4.5 million, accumulated from his long tenure in the UFC and championship reign.
2. Who is Rafael dos Anjos’ wife?
He is married to Cristiane dos Anjos. They have been married for many years and have three children together.
3. Did Rafael dos Anjos win a UFC belt?
Yes, RDA won the UFC Lightweight Championship in March 2015 by defeating Anthony Pettis. He successfully defended it once before losing it to Eddie Alvarez.
4. What is Rafael dos Anjos’ nationality?
Rafael dos Anjos is Brazilian-American. He was born in Brazil but became a naturalized United States citizen in 2019.
5. How many children does Rafael dos Anjos have?
He has three children: two sons named Rafael and Gustavo, and a third child born later.
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