Ricardo Arona Brazilian hand-to-hand combat specialist Date of Birth: 17.06.1978 Country: Brazil

1. Biography of Ricardo Arona
2. Early Career
3. Championship Run
4. Later Career
5. Continued Fighting

Biography of Ricardo Arona

Ricardo Arona is a Brazilian expert in hand-to-hand combat and was a finalist in the 'PRIDE FC Grand Prix' in the middleweight category. He gained popularity primarily through his participation in the wrestling series 'Abu Dhabi Combat Club' (ADCC), where he achieved one of his most famous victories by winning the championship in the 92-kilogram and open weight categories. Arona remains the only fighter in the history of ADCC to win the championship title and remain undefeated.

Early Career

After his legendary victory in Abu Dhabi, Arona joined the Japanese martial arts tournament 'RINGS'. He only suffered one defeat in this project, losing to Fedor Emelianenko, although many consider the judges' decision to be incorrect. Arona's performance in 'RINGS' caught the attention of agents from 'Pride Fighting Championships'. He began his career in the new organization by defeating Guy Mezger, Dan Henderson, and Murilo Rua. However, he was later defeated by Quinton Jackson.

Championship Run

After a four-month break, Arona returned to fighting and embarked on a new winning streak, with three consecutive victories. On April 23, 2005, Arona began competing for the middleweight championship title in 'Pride Fighting Championships'. He easily defeated his first two opponents, Dean Lister and Kazushi Sakuraba. In the semifinals, Arona faced Wanderlei Silva and won a decision victory, marking Silva's first defeat in 'Pride'. In the tournament's final match, Arona faced Mauricio 'Shogun' Rua, but was overpowered and defeated in the first round.

Later Career

Arona had a rematch with Silva on December 31, 2005, this time competing for the middleweight championship title. However, Arona was unable to defeat Silva. In September 2006, Arona faced Alistair Overeem and won the fight by severely injuring Overeem's leg. However, he suffered a knockout defeat to Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou on April 8, 2007, due to being unwell with dengue fever.

Continued Fighting

Arona returned to the ring on September 12, 2009, facing Marvin Eastman, a veteran of the UFC project. Currently, Arona is actively competing, mainly in 'Ultimate Fighting Championship' (UFC) matches.