Gabriel Santos: From Cowboy Dreams to UFC Success

Gabriel Santos, also known as “Mosquitinho,” has carved a path from a childhood dream of being a cowboy to a professional MMA fighter in the UFC. His journey, filled with challenges and determination, has led him to compete on the international stage.

Early Life and Introduction to Martial Arts

Born in Beberibe, a small town near Fortaleza, Brazil, Santos was raised by his mother on a small farm. His early ambition was to be a cowboy, but resources were limited. His introduction to martial arts came through a cousin who taught him jiu-jitsu. They practiced on a canvas on the ground, where Santos learned basic grappling moves. One move he learned was passing guard, knee on belly and Americana.

When his mother’s bosses sold the farm, the family moved to the city. Santos joined a jiu-jitsu gym and quickly gained recognition, using the techniques he had learned. He soon developed a passion for mixed martial arts, inspired by the UFC’s arrival in Fortaleza in 2013. The event, headlined by Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira and Fabricio Werdum, featured local talents and showed Santos a potential career path.

Transition to MMA and UFC Career

Santos made his MMA debut in 2014. He achieved a 10-fight winning streak in the Brazilian circuit, securing titles at LFA and Future MMA. Notable victories included wins over Jose Delano and Elves Brener, who later became his teammate. His success earned him a UFC opportunity.

Santos’ first UFC fight was as a replacement for Nathaniel Wood, where he faced Lerone Murphy in London and lost. Following a defeat to David Onama, he rebounded with a decision win against Yizha. At UFC 312 in Sydney, Santos faced Australia’s Jack Jenkins. Despite Jenkins stunning Santos with a head kick in Round 1, Santos secured a rear-naked choke in the second round to win the fight.

UFC 312 Victory Over Jack Jenkins

At UFC 312, Gabriel Santos defeated Jack Jenkins with a rear-naked choke in the second round. The fight took place at Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney. In Round 1, Jenkins stunned Santos with a head kick. Santos nearly secured a triangle choke. In Round 2, Santos delivered a knockdown blow. He then transitioned to Jenkins’ back and locked in the choke for the victory.

With this win, Santos extended his winning streak to two fights. Jenkins’ record moved to 1-2 in his last three fights. Santos had mentioned before the fight that he believed he would win by submission.

Personal Life and Motivations

Santos is part of the Chute Boxe team. He has expressed that becoming a father has given him more motivation in his career. Santos’ first son was due shortly after UFC 312.