About Rafael Feijao Cavalcante
Brazilian mixed martial artist Rafael Cavalcante, who competes in the light heavyweight division and has an estimated net worth of $1 million, was born on April 5, 1980. Feijao, a portugese word that meaning “bean” is Cavalcante’s pet name. He works out with Black House, which also includes Lyoto Machida, Anderson Silva, and Antônio Rodrigo Nogueira. Prior to fighting for Bellator, Cavalcante competed for the UFC.
Beginnings of MMA
On February 10, 2006, Feijao defeated Eduardo Maiorino by TKO at a Pantanal Combat event in Brazil, making his professional MMA debut. He actually won his first four fights before falling to UFC heavyweight veteran Marcio Cruz after being disqualified (illegal upkick). Before ultimately falling to Mike Kyle by TKO, he went on to win his only three fights for the now-defunct EliteXC company.
Feijao competed in both the heavyweight and light heavyweight weight classes in the early stages of his career. He’s chosen the light heavyweight at this point.
Taking home the Strikeforce Light Heavyweight Championship
When Feijao competed against former collegiate wrestler Mo Lawal at Strikeforce: Houston on August 21, he was the underdog. He did, however, show that he was more than capable of resisting Lawal’s effective takedown attempts during their fight. Because of this, he was able to use his highly skilled Muay Thai techniques throughout the fight. In the third round in particular, when he applied constant pressure to Lawal with punches, knees, elbows, and more, he was able to finish with a TKO victory.
On honoring America and establishing himself there
Before facing Mo Lawal and earning the Strikeforce Light Heavyweight title, Feijao reportedly expressed a desire to improve his English fluency, according to a Five Ounces of Pain article.
“I think it’s important,” he said. “It shows respect and I think more of the Americans are learning who I am. (Speaking English) shows what we really feel. When you use a translator they never say the same thing you want them to say. It’s just different. When I’m thinking something I can say it exactly the way I want so I think it’s important.”
Background in martial arts and fighting style:
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt holder Cavalcante. However, he is well recognized for his explosive and powerful Muay Thai abilities. It’s that simple: you’re in danger if you’re standing next to him.
The greatest victories of Rafael “Feijao” Cavalcante include:
Mo Lawal is KO’d by Feijao at Strikeforce-Houston: Up until his encounter with Feijao at this event in August 2010, Lawal was the undisputed Strikeforce champion. He eventually put his Muay Thai prowess on display by knocking Lawal out in the third round with a variety of strong strikes. Feijao received the Strikeforce Light Heavyweight Championship belt for his victory.
Feijao wins his first professional match by way of a technical knockout over Eduardo Maiorino at PC – Pantanal Combat. What is superior to that?
Rafael Feijao Cavalcante’s net worth is projected to reach $1 million as of 2023. 2017 saw Cavalcante sign a contract with Bellator MMA when he defeated Dan Konecke via technical knockout in the opening round.
