Rafael Lovato Jr. just added another milestone to his already remarkable combat sports journey – this time in a completely new arena.
The former Bellator MMA Middleweight Champion and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt took home third place at the Freestyle Wrestling Masters Nationals, competing in the Master B (35–42 years old) 100kg division.
It was his first-ever freestyle wrestling tournament, and despite going in without a formal wrestling background, Lovato managed a 5-1 run through six matches:
I had a lot of nerves & was a bit tense & hesitant this morning.
But after losing my 2nd match I felt my game open up & I started to get more comfortable with the format & how to play.
Lovato was dealing with two-minute rounds and learning how to navigate a repechage system.
His only loss came early in the bracket to what he jokingly described as a “silverback gorilla” – the only opponent to score a takedown on him the entire weekend.
Rather stormed through the repechage rounds, scoring two pins and a technical fall to lock up the bronze:
In my effort to be the best martial artist I can possibly be, I have fallen in love with the art of wrestling.
Nowadays, I probably watch more wrestling than I do Jiu-Jitsu or MMA.
View this post on Instagram
Sloth Jiu-Jitsu: The Ultimate Guide for Calmly Beating Bigger, Younger Opponents
💥 What if slowing down was the fastest way to win?
💭 Tired of Getting Smashed by Younger, Stronger Grapplers?
It’s not your age. It’s your strategy.
If you’re a passionate grappler over 35 who’s sick of getting outpaced, outmuscled, or out-cardio’d by opponents half your age — this 120 page e-book was made for you.
🔓 Unlock the Power of Sloth Jiu-Jitsu:
Build Sustainable Strength—Without Wrecking Your Joints, Energy, or Jiu-Jitsu
Tired of waking up sore and burnt out after lifting? Sloth Strength is a proven blueprint for grapplers over 35 who want to get stronger—without the pain, burnout, or injuries.
Developed from 25 years on the mats, this no-burnout approach is made specifically for BJJ athletes in their 30s, 40s, and beyond.
