Background
Lima was born and spent his early childhood in the Brazilian city of GoiĆ¢nia and began training in mixed martial arts as a teenager.
Lima was born and spent his early childhood in the Brazilian city of GoiĆ¢nia and began training in mixed martial arts as a teenager.
Lima made his professional debut in 2010 competing for regional promotions across North America, including a five fight stint with Maximum Fighting Championship. He compiled a record of 10 - 1, before auditioning for The Ultimate Fighter. The Ultimate Fighter
In December 2013, it was announced that Lima would a cast member on The Ultimate Fighter 19, representing Team Edgar at middleweight.
Over the course of the show, Lima first defeated Tim Williams in the quarterfinals via submission (rear-naked choke).
In the semifinals, Lima went on to defeat Roger Zapata via submission (armbar) to reach the finals. Ultimate Fighting Championship
Lima made his official debut facing fellow castmate, and Team Edgar teammate Eddie Gordon in the middleweight finals on July 6, 2014 The Ultimate Fighter 19 Finale.
Lima lost the fight via knockout in the first round. Subsequently, Lima was awarded both Performance of the Season bonuses for his submission finishes during the season.
Lima was expected to face Pawel Pawlak in a welterweight bout on November 8, 2014 at UFC Fight Night 56.
However, Pawlak was forced to pull out of the fight due to injury and replaced by Jorge de Oliveira. Lima faced Tim Means on February 28, 2015 at UFC 184. Lima filled in as a short notice replacement against Li Jingliang on May 16, 2015 at UFC Fight Night 66, replacing Roger Zapata.
He lost the fight by knockout in the first round.
On July 5th 2015, Lima confirmed his release from the UFC. Ultimate Fighting Championship
The Ultimate Fighter 19 - Performance of the Season (Lima was awarded both Performance bonuses).