5 Things You Must Know About Rafael Lovato Jr.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu icon Rafael Lovato Jr. is widely regarded as the most decorated American in the sport’s history, and now he’s ready to showcase his elite skills on the grandest stage of submission grappling.
The multi-time BJJ World Champion will make his ONE Championship debut against fellow American debutant Giancarlo Bodoni, in a middleweight submission grappling match at ONE 173: Superbon vs. Noiri inside Tokyo’s Ariake Arena on Sunday, November 16.
But before the fifth-degree BJJ black belt steps into the Circle for the first time, here are five things you must know about the 42-year-old grappling wizard.
#1 He’s An Undefeated MMA World Champion
While Rafael Lovato Jr. was still carving his legacy in the jiu-jitsu realm, he decided to take on a major side quest and try his luck in MMA. The result was nothing short of spectacular.
The Oklahoma native compiled a perfect 11-0 record in the all-encompassing discipline, with nine finishes on his resume that showcased his well-rounded skill set.
Seven of those victories came by submission, which is certainly no surprise given his BJJ pedigree, while another two came via TKO, proving that his striking is just as devastating as his grappling acumen.
What made his undefeated run even more impressive is that he captured a World Championship when he overcame highly regarded Dutch veteran Gegard Mousasi in June 2019.
#2 The Only Athlete To Complete The BJJ Grand Slam In Both Gi And No-Gi
Rafael Lovato Jr. didn’t just make history in “the gentle art” a one-time thing. The first time was so nice, he had to do it twice.
In 2007, the Oklahoma native achieved the IBJJF Grand Slam in gi, becoming the first person to win the four major titles — European, Pan, Brasileiro, and the World Championships — all in a single year.
That accomplishment alone would have cemented his legacy as one of the sport’s all-time greats. But the American wasn’t satisfied with just one Grand Slam.
This past June, he became the first athlete to win all four major titles in both gi and No-Gi after capturing the No-Gi Brasileiro Championship, adding to his earlier gold medal finish at the IBJJF No-Gi European Championships, Pans, and Worlds.
It’s a testament to his technical mastery, competitive longevity, and ability to dominate at the highest level regardless of the rule set.
#3 He’s A Devoted Father Of Twins
When he’s not turning opponents into human pretzels on the mats, Rafael Lovato Jr.’s most important victories come at home with his family.
The BJJ black belt is a loving husband to his wife, Diana Saldana, and together they’re raising twins — a boy named Lorenzo and a girl named Mila, who both turned three this past July.
He has embraced fatherhood with the same dedication he’s shown in his fighting career.
Whether it’s playtime, bedtime stories, or simply being present during the everyday moments, the American athlete has proven that being a world-class competitor and a devoted father aren’t mutually exclusive.
The twins are already spending time on the mats with their dad, and if they do forge their own paths in the BJJ circuit, they certainly wouldn’t have to look far for inspiration.
#4 He’s A Diehard Oklahoma City Thunder Fan
Rafael Lovato Jr. bleeds orange and blue when it comes to his beloved Oklahoma City Thunder.
Growing up in Oklahoma City, the 42-year-old developed a strong affinity with his hometown NBA franchise.
The Thunder captured the NBA Championship in 2025, and for the submission specialist, watching his team reach the pinnacle of basketball mirrored his own journey to the top of the grappling and MMA realm.
Their never-say-die attitude and relentless competitive spirit mirrored the mindset that has defined Lovato’s own career. Like the Thunder, Lovato grits his teeth through adversity, stays composed under enormous pressure, and always believes victory is within reach — no matter the circumstances.
#5 He’s A Fierce Submission Hunter
With 141 career wins, including 76 by submission, Rafael Lovato Jr. has built his reputation on one simple truth: if he gets a hold of you, you’re going to tap out.
That 54 percent submission rate is staggering, especially considering the world-class competition he’s faced throughout his career.
The American athlete has used a variety of match-finishing maneuvers throughout his decorated run on the mats, and even when things get difficult, he knows how to methodically break down defenses until he finds the opening he needs.
This relentless style will come in handy when he collides against a fellow submission hunter, Giancarlo Bodoni, at ONE 173: Superbon vs. Noiri on Sunday, November 16, at Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan.
