All around the world there are fighters most people have never heard of that are quietly climbing the ranks waiting for the call-up to a bigger league. Brazilian-based promotion like Jungle Fights, Shooto Brasil, Nitrix Championship Fight, Circuito Talent MMA and Coliseau Extreme Fight have produced some of the most talented fighters in Brazil. So, here are some Fighters to Watch that are currently making a name for themselves over there. (Note: If a fighter has fought exclusively outside of Brazil for more than 12 months as of writing, they are not eligible for this list.)
- (FW/BW) Luis “Japa” Rafael Laurentino | 23 years old | 31-0 w/ 9 (T)KO, 19 Submissions, 3 Decisions.