# Rafael Dos Anjos

> Black Belt

## Overview

**Name:** Rafael Dos Anjos

**Belt Rank:** Black Belt

**Date of Birth:** June 21, 1996 (age 30)


## Bio

Rafael Dos Anjos is among the rare few to achieve elite success in both BJJ and MMA, but his grappling foundation was laid under Aldo Januario “Caveirinha” at Gracie-Barra after starting as a teenager in Niterói. A purple belt world champion and multiple-time Brazilian national medalist at brown belt, he earned his black belt in 2005 and immediately placed third at the European Open in the lightweight division. His competitive BJJ career includes notable matches against Eduardo Rios, Rodrigo de Paula, and Murilo Santana, though he soon shifted focus to MMA, eventually becoming UFC lightweight champion.
## Gym Affiliations

- **Evolve MMA** (Singapore, Singapore) — Instructor

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**Last Updated:** October 01, 2026

**Data Source:** bjj.space (https://bjj.space/people/rafael-dos-anjos)