Rafael Lovato Jr. has added another improbable chapter to one of the most accomplished careers in grappling history…
At 42 years old, the BJJ legend has officially signed to make his college wrestling debut in 2026, representing Oklahoma City University in the NAIA division!
Lovato is eligible because his college education was never completed.
He first attended college in 2004 but walked away from school to chase a bigger dream, relocating to Brazil and committing fully to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
That gamble paid off quickly.
Just three years later he became only the second American ever to win an IBJJF World Championship, launching a run that would span nearly two decades at the top of the sport.
Since then, Lovato has rewritten record books across multiple disciplines.
Last year he became the first athlete to win all four major IBJJF titles in both gi and no-gi competition
In MMA, he compiled a flawless 11-0 professional record, winning the Bellator middleweight world title and finishing nine of his fights inside the distance before retiring undefeated.
His time in MMA also transformed his standing grappling.
Always known for strong takedowns, Lovato elevated that skill set to another level and recently put it on display by winning a bronze medal at the U.S. Open in freestyle wrestling.
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