HomeUFCCapoeira Master: Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos in the UFC

Capoeira Master: Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos in the UFC

Discover the story of Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos, ‘Capoeira’, a Brazilian UFC fighter renowned for his unique fighting style. Dive into his journey of integrating Capoeira into MMA and his memorable victories.

Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos, also known as ‘Capoeira’, is a Brazilian UFC fighter celebrated for his distinctive fighting style that incorporates Capoeira techniques. Despite criticism, dos Santos remains loyal to his Capoeira roots, emphasizing its importance in his martial arts training. His notable victory includes a TKO finish against Sean Strickland, showcasing his prowess in blending Capoeira with MMA.

Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos, also known as ‘Capoeira’, hails from Francisco Beltrao, Parana, and has made a name for himself in the UFC with his unique fighting style. Starting his mixed martial arts journey at a young age, dos Santos focused on Capoeira, a dynamic dance-fighting style originating from Brazil. His incorporation of Capoeira techniques into his fights distinguishes him from his peers in the promotion. One of his notable victories includes a TKO finish against former middleweight champion Sean Strickland, achieved through a spectacular spinning heel kick. Despite facing some criticism, dos Santos remains steadfast in his dedication to his Capoeira roots, highlighting its significance in his overall martial arts training. In an ever-evolving UFC landscape, dos Santos stands out as a prime example of a fighter effectively blending Capoeira into his MMA arsenal.


Dos Santos’ Unique Style

Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos, nicknamed ‘Capoeira’, showcases a blend of traditional martial arts and the dynamic movements of Capoeira in his fighting approach. This fusion of styles not only surprises his opponents but also captivates fans worldwide. His ability to seamlessly transition from traditional strikes to fluid Capoeira kicks keeps his adversaries on edge, making him a formidable contender in the UFC.

Memorable Victory Against Sean Strickland

One of dos Santos’ most memorable moments in the octagon was his showdown with Sean Strickland. The fight culminated in a breathtaking TKO victory for dos Santos, thanks to a perfectly executed spinning heel kick. This highlight-reel finish solidified dos Santos’ reputation as a skilled and entertaining fighter, earning him respect from fans and fellow competitors alike.

Upholding Capoeira Tradition

Despite facing skepticism from some quarters, dos Santos remains unwavering in his commitment to Capoeira. He views this art form not just as a fighting style but as a representation of his cultural heritage and personal identity. By staying true to his roots, dos Santos continues to inspire aspiring martial artists to embrace their unique backgrounds and incorporate them into their craft.


In conclusion, Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos stands out as a beacon of innovation and tradition in the UFC, blending the dynamic flair of Capoeira with the rigors of mixed martial arts. His journey serves as a testament to the power of embracing one’s roots while evolving with the ever-changing landscape of professional fighting.