Vagner Rocha


Vagner Rocha is a Brazilian-American Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner and professional mixed martial artist, currently competing in the lightweight division.
He is the current CJJ Worlds Combat Jiu Jitsu lightweight champion.

Mixed martial arts career

Primarily known for his expertise in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, Rocha began his MMA career in 2009. In addition to regional promotions in his adopted state of Florida, Rocha has competed for Bellator and Strikeforce.

Ultimate Fighting Championship

Vagner made his UFC debut on June 11, 2011 against Donald Cerrone at UFC 131, replacing an injured Mac Danzig. Cerrone dominated Rocha by utilizing leg kicks, Rocha lost via unanimous decision.
In his second UFC bout Rocha defeated Ultimate Fighter 14 alumni Cody McKenzie on September 17, 2011 at UFC Fight Night 25 by submission due to a rear naked choke in the second round.
Rocha was expected to make his featherweight debut against Mike Brown on January 15, 2012 at UFC on FX 1. However, Brown was forced from the bout with an injury. Rocha instead made his featherweight debut against Jonathan Brookins on February 15, 2012 at UFC on Fuel TV 1. He lost the fight via KO in the first round. After the loss to Brookins, Rocha was subsequently released from the promotion.

Fight Time Promotions

Rocha faced Mike Bruno on November 2, 2012 at Fight Time 12. Rocha won the fight by submission due to a triangle choke in the second round.
Rocha faced Kamrin Naville on February 15, 2013 at Fight Time 13. Rocha won the fight by unanimous decision.
Rocha faced J.P. Reese on April 26, 2013 at Fight Time 14. Rocha won the fight by submission in the fifth round.
Rocha faced journeyman Randy Barroso on August 23, 2013 at Fight Time 16. Rocha won the fight by submission in the first round.

Return to UFC

On April 20, 2014, it was announced that Rocha would return at UFC 172 to replace Yancy Medeiros, who shifted in the card to face Jim Miller, against Joe Ellenberger. However, Rocha suffered a last-minute training injury and the bout was removed from the card.
Rocha faced Jake Matthews on November 8, 2014 at UFC Fight Night 55. He lost the fight due to technical submission in the second round.
Rocha was expected to face promotional newcomer Joseph Duffy on March 14, 2015 at UFC 185. However, Rocha pulled out of the bout in early February citing injury and was replaced by Jake Lindsey. Rocha was subsequently released from the promotion.

Titles and accomplishments

He is married, has 2 children and currently resides in Pembroke Pines, Florida where he teaches Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at Vagner Rocha Martial Arts.

Mixed martial arts record