Introdução

Richarlison de Andrade, mais conhecido simplesmente como Richarlison, é um dos nomes mais vibrantes do futebol brasileiro contemporâneo. Nascido em 10 de maio de 1997, na cidade de Nova Venécia, no Espírito Santo, ele representa a essência do talento cru e da determinação que tanto caracterizam os jogadores do Brasil. Com sua velocidade explosiva, habilidade para finalizar e uma personalidade extrovertida que conquista torcidas ao redor do mundo, Richarlison se tornou um símbolo de superação. De origens humildes, ele subiu degraus íngremes para chegar aos gramados da Premier League e da Seleção Brasileira. Neste artigo, exploramos sua jornada, desde os primeiros chutes de bola até os desafios recentes, passando pelas conquistas que o definem como um dos atacantes mais completos de sua geração. Com mais de 200 jogos em clubes europeus e participações decisivas em Copas do Mundo e Olimpíadas, sua história inspira milhões.

Os Primeiros Passos no Futebol

A trajetória de Richarlison começou em meio às dificuldades da infância no interior do Espírito Santo. Filho de uma família de baixa renda, ele cresceu dividindo o tempo entre a escola e os campos improvisados de Nova Venécia. Aos 14 anos, já demonstrava um talento nato para o futebol de rua, onde aprendeu a driblar adversários em espaços apertados e a usar a força física a seu favor. Seu pai, Antônio de Andrade, trabalhava como pedreiro, e a mãe, Antonia, como faxineira, sempre incentivando o sonho do filho apesar das limitações financeiras.

Em 2011, Richarlison foi descoberto por olheiros do Real Noroeste, um clube modesto do Espírito Santo. Ali, ele jogou nas categorias de base, marcando gols em profusão e chamando atenção pela versatilidade: podia atuar como ponta, centroavante ou até meia ofensivo. Foi no América Mineiro, em 2015, que ele deu o salto inicial para o profissionalismo. Contratado por apenas R$ 50 mil, Richarlison estreou no time principal aos 18 anos, em uma partida da Série B do Campeonato Brasileiro. Seu primeiro gol profissional veio contra o Mogi Mirim, um belo chute de fora da área que ecoou como um presságio de sua carreira.

Naquele ano, ele disputou 25 jogos pelo América-MG, anotando 9 gols e ajudando o time a conquistar o acesso à Série A. Sua garra em campo, combinada com uma comemoração icônica – o gesto de “dedo na boca” para calar os críticos –, já começava a criar uma legião de fãs. Richarlison não era apenas um artilheiro; ele era um lutador, disposto a sujar o uniforme em divididas e a pressionar defensores até o apito final.

Ascensão no Fluminense e o Brilho no Brasileirão

Em 2016, o Fluminense apostou no jovem atacante, pagando R$ 8 milhões ao América-MG. No Tricolor carioca, Richarlison encontrou um palco maior. Sob o comando de treinadores como Levir Culpi, ele se adaptou rapidamente ao futebol de alto nível. Sua estreia foi contra o América-MG, ironicamente, onde marcou um gol e deu uma assistência. Na temporada de 2016, ele jogou 38 partidas, com 14 gols e 5 assistências, números que o colocaram no radar de clubes europeus.

O ano de 2017 foi o ápice no Brasil. Com 21 gols em 42 jogos, Richarlison foi eleito o melhor jogador do Campeonato Carioca e artilheiro do Brasileirão, com 15 tentos. Seu estilo de jogo – agressivo, imprevisível e cheio de energia – encantou a torcida das Laranjeiras. Ele formou uma dupla letal com Fred, o experiente centroavante, e ajudou o Flu a brigar por títulos. Fora de campo, sua personalidade brincalhona, com dancinhas pós-gol e interações nas redes sociais, o transformou em ídolo jovem. Mas o chamado da Europa era irresistível. Em julho de 2017, o Watford, da Premier League, o contratou por € 12 milhões, marcando o fim de sua primeira fase no futebol brasileiro.

A Adaptação na Premier League: Watford e Everton

Chegar à Inglaterra foi um choque cultural e esportivo para Richarlison. Aos 20 anos, ele enfrentou o ritmo frenético da Premier League, com defesas mais organizadas e jogos físicos. No Watford, sob Javi Gracia, ele demorou a engrenar. Na temporada 2017-18, marcou 7 gols em 38 jogos, mas mostrou flashes de brilhantismo, como um hat-trick contra o Cardiff City. Sua versatilidade era chave: jogava pelos lados ou centralizado, sempre pressionando alto.

Em 2018, o Everton o comprou por € 50 milhões, um recorde para um brasileiro na época. No Goodison Park, Richarlison explodiu. Na temporada 2018-19, ele anotou 13 gols e 3 assistências em 36 partidas, tornando-se titular absoluto. Sob Marco Silva, ele se adaptou ao clima chuvoso de Liverpool e à torcida apaixonada dos Toffees. Seus gols contra rivais como Liverpool e Manchester United o consagraram. Em 2019-20, mesmo com lesões, ele continuou produtivo, com 13 gols novamente.

O auge no Everton veio em 2020-21: 10 gols e 5 assistências, ajudando o time a brigar por posições europeias. Richarlison se tornou capitão ocasional, liderando com carisma. Sua comemoração com a torcida, pulando barreiras, simbolizava sua conexão emocional. Ao todo, no Everton, ele jogou 159 partidas, com 53 gols e 15 assistências, consolidando-se como um dos melhores atacantes brasileiros na Inglaterra.

A Transferência para o Tottenham e Novos Horizontes

Em julho de 2022, o Tottenham Hotspur pagou € 60 milhões para levá-lo a Londres. Sob Antonio Conte, Richarlison chegou como reforço para a disputa da Copa do Mundo. Sua estreia foi contra o Rennes, na Liga Europa, onde marcou dois gols. Na Premier League, ele se adaptou ao sistema de três atacantes de Conte, atuando como falso 9. Na temporada 2022-23, apesar de uma lesão no joelho que o tirou de parte da campanha, ele contribuiu com 3 gols e 3 assistências em 27 jogos.

Com a chegada de Ange Postecoglou em 2023, Richarlison ganhou mais liberdade. Seu estilo caótico se encaixava no futebol ofensivo do australiano. Em 2023-24, ele marcou 11 gols em todas as competições, incluindo um hat-trick histórico contra o Manchester United na Copa da Liga. No entanto, lesões recorrentes, como uma no tendão de Aquiles, o limitaram. Ainda assim, sua resiliência impressionava: ele voltava mais forte, sempre com um sorriso e uma provocação aos rivais.

Na temporada 2024-25, Richarlison enfrentou um ano desafiador. Uma lesão no posterior da coxa, sofrida contra o Aston Villa em novembro de 2024, o deixou fora por 16 jogos. Seu retorno em janeiro de 2025 foi gradual, mas impactante. Até outubro de 2025, ele disputou 7 partidas na Premier League, marcando 3 gols e dando 1 assistência. Destaque para um gol que virou o jogo contra o Brighton em setembro, reacendendo esperanças de uma vaga na Champions League para o Tottenham.

Desafios e Superação: Lesões e Pressões

Nenhuma carreira é sem obstáculos, e Richarlison enfrentou muitos. As lesões musculares o perseguem desde 2020, forçando-o a pausas longas e questionamentos sobre sua longevidade. Em 2023, ele passou por uma cirurgia no joelho que o deixou de fora da Copa América. Fora de campo, críticas à sua forma física e ao seu temperamento – ele recebeu cartões vermelhos por entradas duras – testaram sua paciência.

Mas Richarlison sempre rebateu com ações. Em entrevistas, ele fala abertamente sobre saúde mental, incentivando jovens jogadores a buscarem ajuda profissional. Sua tatuagem “Guerreiro” no braço resume sua filosofia: lutar até o fim. Em 2024, ele doou parte de seu salário para clínicas de reabilitação no Brasil, mostrando um lado humanitário que vai além do futebol.

Contribuições para a Seleção Brasileira

Vestir a camisa amarela é o sonho de todo menino brasileiro, e Richarlison o realiza desde 2018. Sua estreia foi contra a Áustria, em um amistoso, onde marcou um gol. Na Copa do Mundo de 2018, na Rússia, ele foi reserva, mas entrou em jogos decisivos, como contra a Bélgica, nas quartas de final.

O ouro olímpico em Tóquio 2020 foi um marco: como titular, ele marcou 3 gols, incluindo na final contra a Espanha, e celebrou com a torcida brasileira em casa, virtualmente. Na Copa América 2021, ele brilhou com 4 gols, ajudando o Brasil a chegar à final. Em 2022, na Copa do Qatar, seus 3 gols – incluindo um belo voleio contra a Sérvia – foram cruciais, mas a eliminação nas quartas contra a Croácia doeu.

Sob Dorival Júnior, em 2024-25, Richarlison reconquistou espaço. Após ficar fora da Copa América por lesão, ele voltou para as Eliminatórias da Copa de 2026, marcando contra o Paraguai em setembro de 2025. Sua versatilidade permite que ele jogue ao lado de Vinícius Jr. e Rodrygo, formando um ataque letal. Recentemente, em outubro de 2025, ele treinou com a Seleção para amistosos contra Japão e outros, com chances de ser titular no jogo contra os japoneses, marcado para o dia 15. Sua fome por gols é vital para o Brasil, que busca se reerguer após tropeços nas Eliminatórias.

Vida Pessoal: Família, Fé e Filantropia

Fora dos gramados, Richarlison é um pai dedicado. Casado com Thais Souza desde 2021, o casal tem uma filha, Maria Alice, nascida em 2023. Ele frequentemente posta fotos familiares nas redes, equilibrando a vida de estrela com a rotina simples. Sua fé evangélica é pilar: ele ora antes de jogos e credita vitórias a Deus.

Filantropia é outra paixão. Em 2020, fundou a Fundação Richarlison, que constrói escolas e campos de futebol em comunidades pobres do Espírito Santo. Durante a pandemia, doou máscaras e alimentos para Nova Venécia. Em 2025, ele ampliou o projeto para incluir programas de saúde mental para atletas jovens, inspirado em suas próprias batalhas. Sua amizade com Neymar e Paquetá, da Seleção, é notória, mas ele valoriza raízes humildes, visitando a família regularmente.

Atualizações Recentes: Outubro de 2025

Outubro de 2025 tem sido movimentado para Richarlison. No Tottenham, ele continua como peça chave no esquema de Postecoglou. Em 8 de outubro, um gol seu em virada contra o West Ham reacendeu debates sobre sua permanência no clube. Seu contrato vai até 2027, mas rumores de uma oferta do Orlando City, da MLS, agitam o mercado. Segundo fontes como ESPN e Goal, o clube americano se reuniu com o estafe de Richarlison no verão, propondo um salário milionário e um papel de estrela. As negociações pararam em uma taxa de transferência de US$ 46,4 milhões, considerada alta pelo Tottenham.

Richarlison, no entanto, reafirmou seu compromisso com os Spurs. Em entrevista ao site oficial do clube, ele disse: “Quero ficar e lutar pela taça. Meu foco é a Copa do Mundo de 2026 com o Brasil”. Sua forma recente – três gols em sete jogos na Premier League – o coloca como artilheiro parcial do time. Uma lesão leve no tornozelo, sofrida no treino de 10 de outubro, preocupa, mas ele deve estar apto para o próximo jogo contra o Arsenal.

Na Seleção, Dorival o convocou para os amistosos de outubro. Treinando em Londres, Richarlison foi visto marcando gols em sessões internas, ao lado de Endrick e Raphinha. O jogo contra o Japão, em 15 de outubro, pode ser o momento para ele brilhar internacionalmente novamente. Além disso, em setembro, ele reagiu às classificações do Ballon d’Or 2025 nas redes, elogiando Vinícius Jr. e brincando sobre sua própria ausência: “Ano que vem eu chego lá!”. Esses momentos mostram um Richarlison maduro, focado em evoluir.

O Futuro de Richarlison: Perspectivas e Legado

Aos 28 anos, Richarlison está no auge. Com o Tottenham mirando a Champions em 2025-26, ele pode acumular mais troféus. Na Seleção, sua vaga na Copa de 2026 parece garantida, especialmente com a aposentadoria iminente de veteranos. Rumores de uma possível volta ao Brasil, talvez ao Flamengo ou Palmeiras, circulam, mas ele prioriza a Europa.

Seu legado vai além dos gols: Richarlison inspira por quebrar barreiras. De menino pobre a ídolo global, ele prova que o sonho é acessível com trabalho duro. Em 2025, com novos desafios à frente, ele continua a escrever sua história, um chute de cada vez. O futebol brasileiro agradece por guerreiros como ele.

Introduction
Sérgio Cláudio dos Santos, known simply as Serginho, is a name that evokes memories of speed, pinpoint crosses, and total commitment on the pitch. Born on June 27, 1971, in Nilópolis, in Rio de Janeiro’s Baixada Fluminense, this left-footed left-back, standing at 1.81 meters, left an indelible mark on Brazilian and Italian football. His career, spanning from 1992 to 2008, was filled with triumphs, challenges, and unforgettable moments. Serginho wasn’t just a player; he was a warrior who combined refined technique with a tenacity that inspired teammates and fans alike.
Over 17 years as a professional, he played over 500 official matches, scored around 60 goals, and lifted trophies with clubs like Bahia, São Paulo, and Milan. With the Brazilian national team, though limited in appearances, he made his mark in the 1999 Copa América. Now, at 54, Serginho leads a quieter life, but his legacy endures in the hearts of fans. This report dives into the journey of this icon, from the dirt fields of his youth to the hallowed turf of the San Siro, exploring the joys and sorrows that shaped his story. Let’s relive the chapters of a life dedicated to the ball.

First Steps in Football
Childhood in Nilópolis
Nilópolis, a modest town in Rio’s metropolitan region, was Serginho’s cradle. Growing up in the Baixada Fluminense during the 1970s and 1980s meant football was part of daily life. Born to a humble family, Sérgio Cláudio spent his childhood playing on streets and makeshift pitches, where the dream of going pro was shared by many neighborhood boys. “Football was our escape, our passion,” he recalled in an interview years later. Limited resources were no obstacle; instead, they forged the resilient character that would define him on the field.
At 10, Serginho showed a natural flair for dribbling and speed down the left flank. His early idols were Brazilian national team left-backs like Júnior of Flamengo, whose elegance he tried to emulate. His family, though modest, supported his dream, as he balanced school and informal training. It was during this time that local scouts noticed him, opening doors to a future that once seemed distant.

Youth Career Beginnings
Serginho’s official entry into football came in 1988 when he joined the youth ranks of Esporte Clube Nova Cidade, a small club in São Gonçalo. From 1988 to 1993, he progressed through all age groups, honing fundamentals and learning the discipline the sport demands. Daily training, short trips, and the pressure of representing the team shaped his athletic physique and competitive mindset.
His professional debut came in 1992 with Itaperuna Esporte Clube, a regional side in Rio. He played just one match and scored no goals, but it was enough to draw attention. At 21, Serginho displayed versatility: he could play as a left-back or midfielder, always with intensity. This solid foundation prepared him for bigger leaps, proving that Nilópolis’ talent could shine beyond local borders. Gradually, he gained experience, dreaming of Brazil’s major football hubs.

Rise at Bahia and Flamengo
Tricolor Idol at Bahia
In 1993, Serginho joined Esporte Clube Bahia, a Northeast giant. It was here that he began building his reputation. With 35 matches and three goals, the young left-back became a fan favorite. His speed down the flanks and sharp crosses were lethal in attack, while his solid defending held firm at the back.
The highlight came in 1994 with the Bahia State Championship title. Serginho was a key figure in the campaign, helping Bahia overcome rivals like Vitória and Galícia. “He played with his heart,” fans at Fonte Nova would say. At 22, he was already a reference, competing with veterans and earning the coach’s trust. This season propelled him onto the national stage, catching the eye of bigger clubs. At Bahia, Serginho learned the value of the fans’ passion, something he’d carry forever.

Brief Stint at Flamengo
June 1994 saw Serginho transfer to Clube de Regatas do Flamengo, one of Brazil’s biggest clubs. Expectations were high: he arrived to bolster the left-back position, but competition with Marcos Adriano limited his minutes. He played just 10 matches, scoring no goals, in a season of ups and downs for the Rubro-Negro.
Despite the short stay, he left a positive impression in training and friendlies. Flamengo, then in a rebuilding phase, couldn’t fully utilize him, but the Maracanã experience was invaluable. Training alongside stars like Romário and Sávio, Serginho absorbed lessons in professionalism. His time at Flamengo, though brief, served as a springboard for bigger challenges, showing he needed more playing time to shine.

Shining at Cruzeiro and São Paulo
Reserve at Cruzeiro
In 1995, Serginho moved to Belo Horizonte, signed by Cruzeiro Esporte Clube. With 34 matches and two goals, he played mostly as a backup to Nonato, the starting left-back. Still, he contributed in key moments, like the Minas Gerais State Championship campaign. Cruzeiro’s attacking style suited laterals who pushed forward, and Serginho fit perfectly.
These months were a learning curve: he improved defensively, handling speedy attackers like Renatinho. Though not the star, his patience paid off. Cruzeiro, a Libertadores Supercup champion in 1991, was a winning environment, and Serginho soaked up its title-driven culture. This adaptation phase prepared him for a major leap.

Explosion at São Paulo
In 1996, a controversial deal took Serginho to São Paulo Futebol Clube, traded for players like Ronaldo Luiz and Palhinha. It was the perfect move. From 1996 to 1999, he played 179 matches and scored 28 goals, remarkable numbers for a left-back. His versatility allowed him to play as a wing-back or even midfielder, confounding opponents.
Under Telê Santana initially, and later Nelsinho Baptista, Serginho became indispensable. In 1996, he was a Paulista Championship runner-up; in 1997, a finalist again. But 1998 brought the state title against Corinthians, with standout performances. In 1999, he exploded, scoring 14 goals in 26 matches in the first half of the year. His crosses to França and Dodô, combined with sharp dribbling, made him a Tricolor idol.

Golden Era at São Paulo
Achievements and Memorable Moments
Serginho’s years at São Paulo were the peak of his Brazilian career. He was the engine on the left, linking up with Raí and Müller for lethal plays. An iconic moment came in the 1998 Paulista final: with Morumbi packed, he delivered the cross for the title-winning goal in a 2-1 victory over Corinthians.
In 1999, his physical and technical form hit its zenith. Despite occasional injuries, he was the informal captain of the left flank. Serginho also stood out for leadership, encouraging younger players and never shying away from challenges. His 28 goals for São Paulo – many from penalties or free kicks – broke barriers for left-backs of the era.

Off-Field Issues
Not everything was perfect. São Paulo’s board faced financial turmoil in 1999, with delayed salaries and instability. Serginho, always discreet, avoided controversies but later admitted it affected focus. Muscle injuries sidelined him for key matches, and competition with Fábio Aurélio tested his patience. Still, he left with his head high, leaving a legacy of gratitude to the fans.

European Adventure with Milan
Arrival in Italy
In mid-1999, Associazione Calcio Milan, coached by Fabio Capello, bet 10 million euros on Serginho. At 28, he swapped São Paulo’s heat for Milan’s cold. Adapting wasn’t easy: Italian football was more tactical, with tight marking. But his speed and crosses won over the coach and Rossoneri fans.
In his first months, he alternated between bench and starting lineup but soon established himself. By 2000, he was a key player, lining up alongside Oliver Bierhoff and Andriy Shevchenko.

Titles and Highlights
Serginho’s Milan was a juggernaut. In 2002-03, he helped win the UEFA Champions League, defeating Juventus 1-0 on penalties in Old Trafford. Serginho played every minute, marking opponents masterfully. The following year brought the Italian Scudetto, with 33 matches and key assists.
From 1999 to 2008, he played 280 matches and scored 25 goals for Milan. Highlights include the 2003 UEFA Super Cup, 2003 Coppa Italia, and 2007 Club World Cup. At 36, his 2008 farewell against Udinese (4-1) was emotional: standing ovation, tears, and a symbolic trophy lift.

Partnership with Milan Stars
Serginho formed an unbeatable duo with Cafu in defense. Alongside Kaká, Clarence Seedorf, and Paolo Maldini, he learned what it meant to be an elite professional. “Milan transformed me,” he said. His humility helped him integrate quickly, becoming a club ambassador in South America.

Brazilian National Team
Call-Ups and Copa América
With Brazil, Serginho played from 1998 to 2001, in 10 matches with one goal. Called up by Zagallo for the 1998 World Cup, he stayed on the bench. His brightest moment was the 1999 Copa América in Paraguay: a starter, he helped secure the title with solid performances against Uruguay and Argentina.
He was Felipão’s option at left-back, but injuries and competition with Roberto Carlos limited his chances.

Controversial Decision
In 2001, after a call-up for friendlies, Serginho sent a letter to the CBF requesting no further summons. Frustrated with limited opportunities, he said, “I’d rather focus on my club.” Years later, he regretted the impulsive move: “The national team is sacred.” The decision removed him from Brazil’s radar but doesn’t tarnish his pride as a five-time champion supporter.

Return to Brazil and Retirement
Back to São Paulo
In 2004, after a Milan injury, Serginho returned to São Paulo on loan. He played 20 matches, contributing to the Rio-São Paulo Tournament campaign. It was a heartfelt reunion with the fans, though his heart remained tied to Italian football.

Final Years and Farewell
Back at Milan in 2005, he won the Champions League again in 2007 against Liverpool. Retirement came in 2008, at 36, after 16 years in Europe. “I reached my limit, but with no regrets,” he said. His farewell marked the end of an era for the Rossoneri.

Life After Football
Milan Consultant
Post-retirement, Serginho stayed with Milan as a market consultant in Brazil, scouting talents like Lucas Paquetá. His network in Brazilian football is enviable, and he travels between Milan and São Paulo, promoting the club.
He also participates in charity events and speaks on resilience. Married to Lia Paiva, he has two sons: Matheus and the late Diego. His family life is low-key, rooted in simple values.

Family and Legacy
Serginho is remembered as the “eternal Rossonero.” His attacking style influenced left-backs like Marcelo. In Brazil, he’s a forever idol of São Paulo and Bahia. He founded a football school in Nilópolis, supporting underprivileged youth. “Football gave me everything; now I give back,” he says.

Recent Updates (2025)
In 2025, at 54, Serginho remains a Milan ambassador, engaging in promotional activities in Latin America. In March, he attended a charity event in São Paulo, reuniting with former teammates like Cafu and Raí to raise funds for favela projects.
However, 2024 brought personal tragedy. In August, his 20-year-old son Diego passed away from a bacterial infection that led to sepsis. The news devastated Serginho and his family. In October 2024, Lia Paiva used social media to raise awareness about lung infections, revealing Diego contracted a rare bacteria after a simple flu. “Take care of your health; don’t underestimate symptoms,” she wrote in a viral, heartfelt post.
Serginho, always private, paid subtle tributes to Diego in November 2024, posting old photos on Instagram with captions of eternal love. In 2025, he focused on family, canceling some trips to stay with Matheus and Lia. Close friends say he found strength in faith and the Milan fans’ support.
Despite the grief, Serginho plans to release a memoir by late 2025, sharing untold career stories and life lessons. “Losing Diego taught me to cherish the present,” he confided to a reporter in April. He also intensified efforts at his Nilópolis football school, now named after Diego, offering free medical checkups for kids.
In football, Serginho commentated Champions League matches for Italian broadcasters, praising young left-backs like Theo Hernández, his spiritual successor at Milan. In July 2025, he played in a charity match in Milan with former Rossoneri, donating his fee to child health causes. His resilience shines: even in mourning, he continues to inspire.
In September, visiting Morumbi for a São Paulo-Corinthians classic, Serginho was cheered by fans. Tearfully, he thanked them: “Football is family.” At 54, he plans more time in Brazil in 2026, possibly as Milan’s official scout.
Serginho’s legacy transcends trophies. It’s about a man who faced glory and loss with dignity, proving a true champion plays for life. From Nilópolis to Morumbi to the San Siro, his name echoes as a symbol of dedication. May his story continue to inspire generations.

Introduction
Beatriz Mesquita, affectionately known as Bia to those close to her, is one of the most inspiring figures in martial arts. Born on April 7, 1991, in Brazil, she embodies the strength and determination of an elite athlete and the essence of Brazilian fight culture. Dubbed the “Lady GOAT” – a nod to her status as the greatest of all time in jiu-jitsu – Bia Mesquita’s journey began on childhood training mats and has now reached the octagon of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). With an undefeated 6-0 professional MMA record and an unmatched legacy in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, her story is one of resilience, impeccable technique, and passion for the sport. In this article, we dive into the life of this warrior who, in October 2025, made a triumphant UFC debut, solidifying her status as one of the most exciting prospects in the women’s bantamweight division.

Childhood and First Steps in Jiu-Jitsu
Beatriz Mesquita’s journey began early, as many Brazilian success stories do. At five years old, in 1996, she stepped onto the tatami in a Rio de Janeiro gym. At the time, jiu-jitsu was just a playful activity for an energetic girl, but it soon became something greater. Alongside jiu-jitsu, Bia practiced judo, wrestling, and swimming, activities that shaped her athletic body and competitive mindset from a young age.
By ten, her efforts were bearing fruit. She won the Brazilian Junior Championship, three state titles, and several major tournaments. Her precocious talent caught the eye of renowned coaches. Bia was invited to train with jiu-jitsu legend Letícia Ribeiro at the Tijuca academy in Rio. Letícia, one of the greatest black belts in history, saw potential in the young student and took her under her wing as a spiritual heir. “Training with Letícia was like finding a second family,” Bia often says in interviews. Under her guidance, Bia learned not only techniques but also the discipline and humility that would define her career.
Those early years were foundational. Bia competed in youth categories, racking up victories that put her on the radar of federations. She balanced intense training with school, a common routine for young Brazilian athletes with big dreams. By 15, she was a purple belt, winning international tournaments. Her dedication was unwavering: she woke at 5 a.m. to run on Copacabana Beach and returned to the gym at night, exhausted but driven. This solid jiu-jitsu foundation prepared her for the challenges ahead, transforming a curious child into a relentless competitor.

Rise in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Jiu-jitsu wasn’t just a sport for Beatriz; it was her identity. At 18, she earned her black belt, a milestone few achieve so young. Under the Gracie lineage – from Royler Gracie to Helio Gracie, via Vini Aieta and Letícia Ribeiro – Bia carried the weight of a century-old tradition. But she wasn’t content to be just another practitioner. Her competitive career exploded in the following years, with achievements that placed her among the greatest in the sport.
Between 2009 and 2021, Bia amassed 24 black-belt titles in the four major gi championships: IBJJF Worlds, Pan-Americans, Europeans, and Brazilians. The highlight? Ten gold medals at the IBJJF Worlds, an absolute record for women in the black-belt division. In 2013, she won the ADCC, the most prestigious no-gi grappling tournament, proving her technique transcended gi rules. “The ADCC was the ultimate test. There’s no escape there,” she reflected years later.
Her training sessions were legendary. Bia traveled the world, competing in Abu Dhabi, Los Angeles, and São Paulo, facing the best on the planet. In 2015, she defended her world title three years in a row, a feat that earned her the “Lady GOAT” moniker. But it wasn’t all smooth sailing. Injuries, like a broken arm in 2017, tested her resilience. “Jiu-jitsu taught me to fall and rise stronger,” she says. Her technical approach was unique: a blend of fluid open guard, swift transitions, and precise submissions, with her signature rear-naked choke.
In 2021, Bia reached the fourth degree of her black belt, an honor reserved for the most dedicated. She became an ambassador for the sport, teaching seminars and inspiring a new generation of girls in Brazil. Her impact went beyond medals: Bia helped popularize women’s jiu-jitsu, proving the tatami has no gender. At 30, with an enviable résumé, she began dreaming bigger – of MMA.

Transition to MMA: A New Chapter
In 2023, at 32, Beatriz Mesquita took a bold step: transitioning to mixed martial arts. Jiu-jitsu had made her immortal, but the octagon beckoned. “I wanted to test my skills in a complete environment, with punches, kicks, and takedowns,” she explained in a UFC website interview. The transition wasn’t easy. Used to pure grappling, Bia had to master striking and the pressure of the cage.
She moved to Coconut Creek, Florida, to train at American Top Team (ATT), one of the world’s most respected gyms. There, she shared the mat with names like Kayla Harrison, her training partner and mentor. “Kayla showed me how to adapt jiu-jitsu to MMA. She’s an inspiration,” Bia says. The training was grueling: sparring with tough strikers, striking defense drills, and hours-long conditioning sessions. Bia invested in muay thai and wrestling to complement her base, turning weaknesses into strengths.
Her professional MMA debut came in June 2023, at a regional event in the U.S. Against an experienced opponent, Bia secured a rear-naked choke submission in under three minutes in the first round. It was a statement: the “Lady GOAT’s” jiu-jitsu worked in the octagon. “I felt adrenaline mixed with the technique I love,” she described post-fight. That victory fueled her drive, and a string of undefeated wins soon caught the eye of bigger promoters.

Professional MMA Career: Unstoppable Victories
Bia’s MMA record is short but impressive. With just six fights by October 2025, she remains 100% undefeated, with four submissions – three by rear-naked choke. Her approach is surgical: she uses wrestling to take down, ground and pound to wear out, and jiu-jitsu to finish. Here are the highlights.

Debut and Early Regional Success
After her 2023 debut, Bia fought in smaller Florida events, racking up quick wins. In September 2023, she faced an American striker and won by second-round TKO, showing striking improvement. In December, she secured another submission via armlock, proving versatility. These fights prepared her for the big leap: the Legacy Fighting Alliance (LFA), a top U.S. regional league.
In March 2025, at LFA 203, Bia faced Hope Chase, a grappling-savvy veteran. The fight was intense, but Chase committed a foul – an illegal upkick – in the second round, resulting in disqualification. Bia took the win but left with a superficial orbital cut. “I learned to stay calm in chaos,” she said. That fight elevated her profile, setting the stage for a title shot in June 2025.

LFA Title: Regional Glory
At LFA 211 on June 20, 2025, Bia fought for the vacant bantamweight title against Sierra Dinwoodie, a former champion. The fight was a masterclass in dominance. Bia took Dinwoodie down in the first round, passed her guard, and locked in a rear-naked choke at 4:32. At 34, with just five pro fights, she became LFA champion. “This belt is for Brazil and all the girls training jiu-jitsu,” Bia declared, hoisting the hardware. Her performance drew immediate UFC attention.

UFC Debut: Triumph at Home
The dream came true in July 2025 when Bia signed with the UFC. Her debut was set for October 11, 2025, at UFC Fight Night 261 in Rio de Janeiro – her hometown. Facing Irina Alekseeva, nicknamed “Russian Ronda,” a judo-based fighter on a two-fight UFC losing streak, Bia entered as the heavy favorite.
The event, dubbed UFC Rio, packed the arena with ecstatic Brazilian fans. Bia, carrying the weight of expectations, delivered. In the first round, she absorbed some strikes but took Alekseeva down, unleashing ground and pound that opened cuts on the Russian. In the second, her magic shone: fluid transitions led to a perfect rear-naked choke at 2:45. The crowd erupted. “Debuting at home with a submission is unforgettable. I feel all of Brazil’s support,” Bia beamed into the microphone.
This victory, her sixth straight, keeps her 6-0 in pro MMA. Analysts praise her rapid adaptation: in just 16 months, she’s gone from novice to regional champion to UFC star. On October 12, 2025, Bia woke up as headline news across Brazilian sports outlets, earning praise from icons like Anderson Silva and José Aldo.

Personal Life: Balance Off the Mat
Outside the cage, Beatriz is a balanced, passionate woman. In January 2021, she got engaged to Patrick Gaudio, another jiu-jitsu competitor, in a romantic Rio ceremony. “Patrick supports me in everything, from training to travel,” she says. The couple splits time between Florida and Brazil, dreaming of starting a family.
Bia is active on social media, sharing workouts, healthy recipes, and empowering messages. She supports social projects in Rio, like free jiu-jitsu gyms for girls in underserved communities. Her diet is strict – rice, beans, fruits, and lean proteins – and she practices yoga to keep her mind calm. “MMA taught me life is like a fight: you plan, but you adapt,” Bia philosophizes.

Legacy and Future: A Rising Star
Beatriz Mesquita’s legacy is vast. In jiu-jitsu, she’s untouchable: a record-holder for world titles and an ambassador for the sport. In MMA, her rise is meteoric – from novice to UFC threat in under two years. Her “Lady GOAT” mentality – humble yet confident – inspires athletes worldwide.
Looking ahead, Bia aims for the top of the bantamweight division. After defeating Alekseeva, she called for a ranked opponent in 2026, possibly Holly Holm or Irene Aldana. “I want the belt, but above all, to entertain the fans,” she says. With ATT and Brazil’s support, her path seems paved for greater glory.
In October 2025, Beatriz Mesquita is more than a fighter; she’s a symbol of perseverance. From a Rio girl to the UFC octagon, her story continues to unfold, one submission at a time. The fight world has never been more excited for what’s next.