Matheus Camilo, the 24-year-old Brazilian lightweight, has quickly become a name to watch in the MMA world. After earning a UFC contract with a standout performance against Dorobshokh Nabotov, Camilo faced a challenging debut at UFC Vegas 106. Despite the setback, his journey reflects resilience and potential that could shape the lightweight division’s future.
From Brazil to the Octagon: Camilo’s Journey to the UFC
Born on January 2, 2001, in Brazil, Matheus Camilo began his professional MMA career in 2019. Standing at 5’9″ with a 69-inch reach, he fights out of Las Vegas, Nevada, training at the renowned Xtreme Couture gym. His fighting style is orthodox, and he has compiled a record of 9 wins and 3 losses, with victories coming via knockout, submission, and decision.
Camilo’s path to the UFC wasn’t straightforward. His breakout moment came during a fight against Dorobshokh Nabotov under the ZFN promotion, which was part of Dana White’s “Lookin’ for a Fight” series. Despite Nabotov’s public plea for a UFC contract, it was Camilo who impressed White with his performance and professionalism, leading to his signing with the UFC.
UFC Vegas 106: A Tough Debut Against Gabe Green
Camilo made his UFC debut on May 17, 2025, at UFC Vegas 106, facing the returning Gabe Green. The fight started competitively, with Camilo showcasing his striking and grappling skills. However, in the second round, Green capitalized on a scramble, securing a rear-naked choke that forced Camilo to submit at 3:43.
Despite the loss, Camilo demonstrated potential, particularly with a near-successful triangle choke earlier in the fight. His performance indicated that, with experience, he could become a formidable contender in the lightweight division.
Learning from Defeat: Camilo’s Path Forward
Losses can be pivotal learning experiences for fighters. Camilo’s debut highlighted areas for improvement, such as maintaining composure during transitions and capitalizing on submission opportunities. Training at Xtreme Couture, he has access to elite coaching and sparring partners, providing an environment conducive to growth.
Moreover, Camilo’s resilience, demonstrated by his journey to the UFC and his performance against Green, suggests he has the mental fortitude to rebound. With continued development, he could evolve into a well-rounded fighter capable of climbing the lightweight ranks.
The Lightweight Division: Opportunities and Challenges
The UFC’s lightweight division is one of its most competitive, featuring fighters like Islam Makhachev, Charles Oliveira, and Dustin Poirier. For Camilo, breaking into the top tier will require consistent performances and strategic fight selections.
His diverse skill set—combining striking, submissions, and wrestling—positions him well to adapt to various opponents. By focusing on refining his techniques and gaining experience, Camilo can establish himself as a rising star in the division.
Looking Ahead: Camilo’s Potential in the UFC
While his debut didn’t go as planned, Matheus Camilo’s journey is far from over. His background, training, and determination provide a solid foundation for future success. As he continues to develop and gain experience, fans and analysts alike will be watching to see how he navigates the challenges of the UFC.
Camilo’s story is a testament to perseverance and the unpredictable nature of MMA. With the right mindset and support, he has the potential to become a significant player in the lightweight division.
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