Ronaldo Souza dos Santos, nicknamed “Jacare” (Portuguese for “Alligator”), is a Brazilian former professional mixed martial artist, submission grappler, and 4th degree Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt.
Souza is widely regarded as one of the greatest BJJ practitioners of his time and was inducted into the ADCC Hall of Fame in 2024.
You can follow Ronaldo Souza’s biography, career details, wife, net worth, contract, fight purses, earnings, endorsements, fight records, achievements, and more here.
Ronaldo Souza’s Biography
| Attribute | Information |
| Full Name | Ronaldo Souza dos Santos |
| Nickname | Jacare (Alligator) |
| Birth Date | December 7, 1979 |
| Height | 6′ 1″ (185 cm) |
| Weight | 185 lbs (84 kg) |
| Birthplace | Vila Velha, Brazil |
| Nationality | Brazilian |
| Turned Professional | 2003 |
| Current Net Worth | $3 million |
| Relationship Status | Married |
| Wife | Larissa Carvalho |
| Instagram Profile | @ronaldojacare |
Ronaldo Souza dos Santos was born on December 7, 1979, in Vila Velha, Brazil, contrary to the common belief that he was born in Manaus. He was raised in Cariacica, Brazil, where he had a rough upbringing.
On his 15th birthday, Souza witnessed the tragic death of one of his close friends, who was shot. This traumatic event prompted his mother to move him to Manaus to live with his brother. It was in Manaus that Souza’s martial arts journey began.
Early Career
Souza’s martial arts journey began at the age of 17 when he started training in Judo and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He quickly excelled in these disciplines, becoming an eight-time World Jiu-Jitsu Champion before transitioning to MMA.
Professional Career
Souza made his mixed martial arts debut on September 9, 2003, at Jungle Fight’s inaugural event. Despite losing his first fight to Jorge “Macaco” Patino by knockout, he quickly bounced back.
In his second MMA bout at Jungle Fight 2, Souza secured a submission victory over Victor Babkir in less than a minute.
Souza’s professional career spanned from 2003 to 2021. He competed in various promotions, including Jungle Fight, DREAM, Strikeforce, and ultimately the UFC. In Strikeforce, Souza became the Middleweight Champion.
In the UFC, Souza faced some of the best middleweights in the world. He had notable victories over fighters like Chris Weidman, Vitor Belfort, and Gegard Mousasi.
His last UFC fight was against Andre Muniz at UFC 262 in May 2021, after which he announced his retirement from MMA.
Wife
Ronaldo Souza is married to Larissa Carvalho. The couple has three children together. Their relationship has been a source of support for Souza both personally and professionally.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, when traditional training methods were limited, Larissa played a crucial role in Souza’s preparation for his fights. She regularly trains in CrossFit, which allowed Souza to adapt his training regimen and use her as a training partner.
Ronaldo Souza’s Net Worth Details
Ronaldo Souza’s net worth is estimated to be $3 million as of 2025. This wealth has been accumulated through his successful MMA career, fight purses, and endorsements.
Contract
Souza’s last contract was with the UFC, which ended after his fight at UFC 262 in May 2021. The organization did not re-sign him, making him a free agent.
Fight Purses
| Event | Opponent | Reported Earnings |
| UFC 262 | André Muniz | $210,000 |
| UFC 256 | Kevin Holland | $210,000 |
| UFC Fight Night 164 | Jan Blachowicz | $210,000 |
| UFC 230 | Chris Weidman | $220,000 |
| UFC Fight Night 117 | Yushin Okami | $135,000 |
Career Earnings
Throughout his MMA career, Souza earned significant prize money from his fights and performance bonuses. His UFC earnings alone are over $3 million.
This figure does not include undisclosed bonuses, sponsorships, or earnings from other promotions like Strikeforce.
Endorsements
Souza had an exclusive sponsorship deal with Reebok during his time in the UFC. He has also been associated with other brands.
Fight Records
| Statistic | Record |
| Total Fights | 37 |
| Wins | 26 |
| Losses | 10 |
| Draws | 1 |
| Wins by KO/TKO | 8 |
| Wins by Submission | 14 |
| Wins by Decision | 4 |
Achievements
- Strikeforce Middleweight Champion
- ADCC Submission Fighting World Champion
- Two-time BJJ World Champion (Black Belt)
- CBJJO World Cup Champion
- Brazilian National Champion
- European Open Champion
- Inducted into the ADCC Hall of Fame (2024 class)
FAQs
What is Ronaldo Souza’s nickname?
Jacare, which means “Alligator” in Portuguese.
When did Ronaldo Souza start his MMA career?
He made his MMA debut in 2003.
What is Ronaldo Souza’s background in martial arts?
He is a 4th degree Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt and former world champion in BJJ.
Has Ronaldo Souza ever been a champion in MMA?
Yes, he was the Strikeforce Middleweight Champion.
When did Ronaldo Souza retire from MMA?
He announced his retirement in August 2021.
What is Ronaldo Souza’s record in the UFC?
He had a record of 9-6 in the UFC.
Has Ronaldo Souza competed in other combat sports?
Yes, he made his boxing debut in 2023 against Vitor Belfort.
What is Ronaldo Souza’s most famous submission technique?
He is known for his powerful arm-triangle chokes.
Did Ronaldo Souza ever fight for a UFC title?
No, despite being a top contender, he never fought for a UFC championship.
What is Ronaldo Souza doing after retirement from MMA?
He opened his own BJJ Academy in Orlando, Florida, in 2020.
