A Fighter’s Roots: The Story Behind Melquizael Costa

Age: 29
Record: 25‑7 (UFC)
Nationality: Brazilian
Gym: Chute Boxe – home of Charles Oliveira & Anderson Silva

Quick Facts

• Birthdate: September 14, 1996
• Fighting Style: Combines hard striking with slick submissions
• Upcoming Opponent: Dan Ige (UFC Fight Night 267)

Early Life & Training

• First Gym: 2010 – Initially a striker, knocked out quickly
• Turn to Jiu‑Jitsu: A single submission sparked his passion for grappling
• Influential Gym: Chute Boxe, renowned for producing multiple UFC champions

Family Influence

• Reluctance to Fight: Parents hesitant; only his brother pushed him forward
• Brother’s Death (2013): Motivated Costa to train harder, turning grief into strength
• Father’s Support: Overcame doubts about his physique; calls before fights to calm nerves

Personal Struggles & Strength

• Vitiligo: Childhood isolation, but training built confidence and resilience
• Public Persona: No declared religion; focuses on overcoming discrimination

Mindset Ahead of the Fight

• Facing Experience: Dan Ige brings veteran savvy, but Costa’s recent wins suggest readiness
• Mental Edge: Training has prepared him to translate off‑the‑mat growth into in‑ring success
• Goal: Prove that his development will shine under UFC lights