Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos is a Brazilian MMA fighter known for his impressive skills in the welterweight division of the UFC. Born on November 12, 1986, in Francisco Beltrao, Parana, Brazil, Zaleski started his MMA career in 2009, competing in various promotions before making his way to the UFC. Notably, he became the Jungle Fight welterweight champion, showcasing his talent and determination.
In his UFC debut, Zaleski faced Nicolas Dalby, though he suffered a setback with a split decision loss. However, he swiftly recovered and secured his first UFC victory against Omari Akhmedov, delivering a knockout in the third round. Zaleski has accumulated several notable wins in the UFC, triumphing over esteemed fighters such as Lyman Good, Max Griffin, and Sean Strickland.
Zaleski’s fighting style is marked by his capoeira background, which adds a unique and flashy element to his performances. Fans appreciate his agile movements and dynamic strikes, making each of his fights a spectacle to watch. His thrilling displays have earned him multiple Fight of the Night bonuses, solidifying his reputation as an entertaining and skilled fighter.
Currently under contract with the UFC, Zaleski is preparing to face Rinat Fakhretdinov on November 4, 2023, at UFC Fight Night 231. As he continues to showcase his talent and determination in the octagon, the future looks promising for this Brazilian MMA warrior.
Early Career and Jungle Fight Championship
Zaleski began his MMA journey in 2009 and quickly made a name for himself, eventually becoming the welterweight champion in the renowned Jungle Fight promotion. With his powerful striking and dynamic fighting style influenced by his background in capoeira, Zaleski showcased his skills and dominated his opponents inside the cage.
He displayed exceptional technique and precision, earning him a reputation as one of the most exciting fighters in the welterweight division. Zaleski’s impressive performances in Jungle Fight caught the attention of UFC scouts, leading to his opportunity to compete on the biggest stage in mixed martial arts.
Despite facing tough competition, Zaleski proved to be a force to be reckoned with, as he showcased his versatility and determination to succeed. His relentless pursuit of victory, combined with his natural talent and relentless work ethic, propelled him to the top of the welterweight division in Jungle Fight.
Zaleski’s achievements in Jungle Fight set the stage for his future success in the UFC, where he would continue to make waves in the welterweight division. His journey from a promising young fighter to a respected champion serves as an inspiration to aspiring MMA athletes around the world.
UFC Debut and Road to Redemption
After joining the UFC, Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos faced Nicolas Dalby in his debut fight. It was a highly anticipated showdown between two talented welterweights. The fight went the distance, with both fighters putting on an impressive display of skill and determination. Unfortunately, Zaleski ended up losing the fight via a split decision. It was a disappointing outcome for him, but he didn’t let it deter his spirit.
Coming off the loss, Zaleski wasted no time in bouncing back. He knew that he had to prove himself in the UFC and show the world what he was capable of. His next opportunity came in the form of a matchup against Omari Akhmedov. Zaleski entered the Octagon with a renewed focus and determination.
The fight with Akhmedov turned out to be a turning point in Zaleski’s career. He showcased his striking skills and power, landing a vicious knockout blow in the third round. The crowd erupted in cheers as Zaleski celebrated his victory. It was a spectacular redemption for him, proving that he had what it takes to succeed in the UFC.
Since then, Zaleski has continued to impress. He has faced tough opponents like Lyman Good, Max Griffin, and Sean Strickland, defeating them with his unique fighting style. Zaleski’s background in capoeira has given him a distinct advantage in the Octagon. His flashy kicks and spinning attacks have become trademarks of his fighting style.
In recognition of his exciting performances, Zaleski has received multiple Fight of the Night bonuses. These bonuses serve as a testament to his ability to entertain fans and put on thrilling fights. Zaleski’s dedication to his craft and his passion for the sport are evident in every performance.
Looking ahead, Zaleski is set to face Rinat Fakhretdinov at UFC Fight Night 231. It’s another opportunity for him to showcase his skills and continue his journey in the UFC. Fans and experts alike are eagerly awaiting this matchup, expecting nothing short of an electrifying fight from Zaleski.
Notable UFC Wins and Fighting Style
Zaleski has showcased his skills and resilience in the UFC with impressive victories over top-tier opponents such as Lyman Good, Max Griffin, and Sean Strickland, while his capoeira background adds a distinct flair to his fighting style.
In his fight against Lyman Good, Zaleski displayed his versatility by blending striking techniques with well-timed takedowns, ultimately securing a unanimous decision victory. Good, known for his power and aggression, was unable to find a solution to Zaleski’s slick footwork and dynamic striking combinations.
Zaleski’s fight against Max Griffin showcased his ability to adapt to different opponents. Griffin, a skilled striker himself, was put to the test as Zaleski relentlessly pressed forward with his unorthodox striking and formidable ground game. In a display of his well-rounded skill set, Zaleski secured a majority decision victory, leaving Griffin unable to effectively counter his aggressive attacks.
One of Zaleski’s most memorable performances came against Sean Strickland. Despite Strickland’s technical striking and solid grappling background, Zaleski overwhelmed him with his explosive capoeira-inspired movements. The fight ended in a thrilling second-round knockout, solidifying Zaleski’s reputation as a dangerous and exciting fighter.
Fight of the Night Bonuses and Recognition
Zaleski’s thrilling performances inside the Octagon have not gone unnoticed, as he has received multiple Fight of the Night bonuses for his electrifying fights. His relentless fighting style and explosive striking have captivated fans and earned him recognition as one of the most exciting fighters in the welterweight division.
One of the most memorable fights in Zaleski’s UFC career came against fellow striker Lyman Good. The two fighters engaged in a back-and-forth war, trading heavy shots and displaying incredible heart and determination. Their epic battle ended with Zaleski emerging victorious, winning by unanimous decision and securing the Fight of the Night bonus.
In another thrilling performance, Zaleski faced off against Max Griffin. The fight showcased Zaleski’s versatility and creativity in the cage, as he unleashed a barrage of strikes, including spinning elbows and spinning attacks that left the audience in awe. Once again, Zaleski’s exciting style earned him the Fight of the Night bonus.
Sean Strickland also fell victim to Zaleski’s explosive striking and unrelenting pressure. Zaleski’s dynamic striking arsenal was on full display as he unleashed a barrage of punches, kicks, and elbows, overwhelming Strickland and securing yet another Fight of the Night bonus.
Zaleski’s impressive performances and well-deserved Fight of the Night bonuses have solidified his reputation as a fan-favorite fighter. His exciting style, combined with his never-say-die attitude, makes him a must-watch fighter every time he steps into the Octagon.
Future Fight and Conclusion
Zaleski is set to face Rinat Fakhretdinov at UFC Fight Night 231, and fans eagerly anticipate another exciting display of his skills and determination inside the Octagon. Born on November 12, 1986, in Francisco Beltrao, Parana, Brazil, Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos has established himself as a prominent welterweight fighter in the UFC. With a career that began in 2009, Zaleski fought for multiple promotions before making his debut in the UFC.
Although his first UFC bout ended in a split decision loss to Nicolas Dalby, Zaleski quickly demonstrated his resilience and showcased his potential. In his next fight against Omari Akhmedov, he triumphed with a spectacular knockout victory in the third round, marking his first win in the UFC. This victory solidified Zaleski’s place in the promotion and set the stage for a string of notable wins.
Throughout his UFC career, Zaleski has demonstrated his versatility and unique fighting style influenced by his capoeira background. His flashy techniques and unorthodox approach have allowed him to secure victories against formidable opponents such as Lyman Good, Max Griffin, and Sean Strickland. Zaleski’s performances have not only earned him recognition but also multiple Fight of the Night bonuses, highlighting his ability to entertain fans with his thrilling fights.
Looking ahead, Zaleski’s upcoming bout against Rinat Fakhretdinov at UFC Fight Night 231 promises to be another exciting chapter in his career. Scheduled for November 4, 2023, this fight will provide an opportunity for Zaleski to showcase his skills and continue his ascent in the welterweight division. With his determination and passion for the sport, Zaleski remains a fighter to watch, capturing the attention of MMA enthusiasts worldwide.
