Ricardo Lamas, widely known as “The Bully,” is a respected figure in mixed martial arts who carved out a successful career in the UFC’s featherweight division.
A former title challenger and a consistent top contender, Lamas retired from professional competition in 2020 but remains active in the fitness and martial arts community as an entrepreneur.
In 2026, he continues to build his legacy outside the cage. In this article, you will know Ricardo Lamas’ net worth, career earnings, career overview, stats, relationship details, and more.
Ricardo Lamas’ Biography
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ricardo Alejandro Lamas |
| Nickname | The Bully |
| Date of Birth | May 21, 1982 |
| Age | 43 |
| Nationality | American (Cuban/Mexican Heritage) |
| Height | 5 ft 8 in (1.73 m) |
| Weight | 145 lbs (Featherweight) |
| Turned Pro | 2008 |
| Net Worth | Approx. $2 Million – $2.5 Million |
| Career Earnings | Over $2 Million (Estimated) |
| Wife | Olivia Lamas |
| Instagram Profile | @ricardolamasmma |
| Twitter Profile | @RicardoLamasMMA |
Early Career
Ricardo Lamas was born in Chicago, Illinois, to a Cuban father and a Mexican mother. Growing up, he was deeply influenced by his father, who was a leader in the Cuban resistance movement against Fidel Castro.
This family history instilled a fighting spirit in him from a young age. Lamas attended Elmhurst College (now Elmhurst University), where he was an NCAA Division III All-American wrestler, amassing over 100 wins during his collegiate career.
After graduating with a degree in Exercise Science, Lamas transitioned into mixed martial arts. He began his professional career in 2008, fighting in smaller promotions like the IFL (International Fight League).
He quickly built an undefeated record of 6-0 before joining the WEC (World Extreme Cagefighting), which was the premier organization for lighter weight classes at the time. His success in the WEC laid the foundation for his eventual move to the UFC when the promotions merged in 2011.
Professional Career
Ricardo Lamas’ UFC career was defined by his tenacity and well-rounded skill set. He made an immediate impact in the featherweight division, securing impressive stoppage wins over veterans like Cub Swanson and Erik Koch.
These victories earned him a shot at the UFC Featherweight Championship against the dominant José Aldo at UFC 169 in 2014. Although he lost via unanimous decision, Lamas proved he belonged among the elite, going five hard rounds with one of the greatest champions in history.
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Following his title fight, Lamas remained a perennial contender, engaging in memorable battles against top-tier opponents like Max Holloway, Chad Mendes, and Charles Oliveira.
He was known for his durability and dangerous submission game, notably submitting Charles Oliveira with a guillotine choke in 2016.
Lamas retired in 2020 after a “Fight of the Night” victory over Bill Algeo, finishing his career on a high note. Post-retirement, he transitioned successfully into entrepreneurship, opening a UFC Gym in Naperville, Illinois, where he mentors the next generation of martial artists.
Wife
Ricardo Lamas is married to Olivia Lamas. The couple has built a strong family life together in the Chicago suburbs. Olivia has been a pillar of support throughout his fighting career and his transition into business owner.
They have three children together. Lamas is a devoted father who is actively involved in his children’s lives, including coaching his son in wrestling.
He frequently shares proud “dad moments” on social media, highlighting his son’s success in wrestling tournaments and expressing gratitude for his wife’s role in managing their busy household.
Ricardo Lamas’ Net Worth Details
As of 2026, Ricardo Lamas has an estimated net worth of approximately $2 million to $2.5 million.
Fight Purses
| Event | Opponent | Result | Estimated Payout (Disclosed) |
|---|---|---|---|
| UFC 169 | José Aldo | Loss | $250,000 (Title Fight) |
| UFC 214 | Jason Knight | Win | ~$106,000 (inc. bonus) |
| UFC Fight Night | Charles Oliveira | Win | ~$106,000 (inc. bonus) |
| UFC 225 | Mirsad Bektić | Loss | $68,000 |
| UFC Fight Night | Bill Algeo | Win | ~$100,000+ (inc. FOTN bonus) |
Career Earnings
| Year | Estimated Earnings |
|---|---|
| 2014 | ~$350,000+ (Peak Year) |
| 2015-2017 | ~$200,000 – $300,000 (Avg.) |
| 2018-2020 | ~$150,000+ |
| Total | ~$2 Million+ (Excluding sponsors) |
Career Stats
| Statistic | Details |
|---|---|
| Pro Record | 20-8-0 |
| UFC/WEC Record | 15-8 |
| Knockout Wins | 6 |
| Submission Wins | 5 |
| Significant Wins | Cub Swanson, Charles Oliveira, Diego Sanchez, Erik Koch |
| Honors | UFC Title Challenger (2014) |
FAQs
1. What is Ricardo Lamas’ net worth?
Ricardo Lamas has an estimated net worth of $2 million to $2.5 million in 2026. This comes from his decade-long UFC career and his ownership of a UFC Gym franchise.
2. Is Ricardo Lamas still fighting?
No, Ricardo Lamas officially retired from professional MMA in September 2020. He retired after a victory over Bill Algeo to focus on his family and business.
3. Who is Ricardo Lamas’ wife?
He is married to Olivia Lamas. They have three children together and reside in the Chicago area.
4. Does Ricardo Lamas own a gym?
Yes, he is the owner of a UFC Gym franchise located in Naperville, Illinois. He opened this gym while he was still an active fighter and now manages it full-time.
5. What was Ricardo Lamas’ nickname?
His nickname was “The Bully.” Ironically, he is known for being a respectful martial artist outside the cage, but inside, he employed a relentless, high-pressure fighting style.
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