Oklahoma City, January 2, 2026
Rafael Lovato Jr., a seasoned Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and former Bellator MMA champion, is transitioning to collegiate wrestling at Oklahoma City University. At 42, he will compete in the NAIA division, beginning with the National Duals tournament in Iowa. This move follows his recent bronze medal achievement in freestyle wrestling, marking a significant chapter in his athletic career and highlighting his resilience and community engagement.
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – In a remarkable turn of events, Rafael Lovato Jr., a 42-year-old Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and former Bellator MMA Middleweight World Champion, is set to make his collegiate wrestling debut with Oklahoma City University (OCU) in the NAIA division. His first competition is slated for the prestigious National Duals tournament in Iowa, taking a significant step into the world of collegiate athletics after years of professional combat sports participation.
The move comes on the heels of Lovato’s recent success in freestyle wrestling, where he secured a bronze medal at the Freestyle Wrestling Masters Nationals in the Master B (35–42 years) 100 kg division. Achieving a 5–1 record in six matches, Lovato’s performance was a testament to his ability to adapt despite no prior formal wrestling experience, marking a pivotal moment in his athletic journey.
Community Impact through Athletic Engagement
Lovato’s decision to join the OCU wrestling program can potentially inspire other athletes in Oklahoma City and beyond. His return to collegiate athletics symbolizes a commitment to personal growth, competition, and community engagement, proving that perseverance can lead to new opportunities, regardless of age.
Supportive Structures in University Sports
The backing from OCU’s staff, particularly Coach Brian Picklo, played a crucial role in Lovato’s decision. Such initiatives highlight the university’s commitment to fostering diverse talent and ensuring that student-athletes receive the guidance they need to excel in their pursuits. The university atmosphere provides a strong foundation for athletes from various backgrounds, promoting growth and fostering camaraderie.
Lovato’s Unique Journey in Combat Sports
Despite having a rich history in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and mixed martial arts, Lovato has embraced wrestling as a new path following a health scare in 2020. Diagnosed with a cavernoma, he had to vacate his Bellator title, leading to a significant life change. Now, grappling with younger opponents while sharing his extensive knowledge and experience adds an enriching layer to the collegiate wrestling scene at OCU.
A New Chapter in Collegiate Athletics
Lovato’s transition into collegiate wrestling at an age when most athletes retire is not only unique but also an opportunity to reshape perspectives around age and competitive sports. His recent performance at the Masters Nationals, where he demonstrated high-level skills including two pins and a technical fall, speaks volumes of his determination and adaptability in this new endeavor.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Lovato?
As Lovato gears up for the National Duals tournament, he is also honing his wrestling techniques under the guidance of a dedicated coach. The synergy of his grappling foundation with dedicated wrestling training positions him to compete effectively against younger, less experienced athletes. The OCU wrestling program could see a blend of traditional styles and innovation, thanks to Lovato’s diverse background.
The implications of Lovato’s collegiate debut resonate deep within the Oklahoma sports community, illustrating that athletics can serve as a vehicle for personal achievement and community pride. As the excitement builds around his participation, local fans and aspiring athletes can watch closely, perhaps drawing inspiration to pursue their own athletic dreams.
Conclusion
Rafael Lovato Jr.’s foray into college wrestling is a compelling narrative of resilience, adaptability, and the pursuit of new challenges. His journey encourages community engagement and highlights the vital role of universities in supporting athletes. Oklahoma City’s residents have a chance to witness a remarkable evolution in local sports—fostering excitement and investment in the future of competitive athletics.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Rafael Lovato Jr.?
Rafael Lovato Jr. is a 42-year-old Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and former Bellator MMA Middleweight World Champion from Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He is set to make his college wrestling debut for Oklahoma City University’s wrestling team in the NAIA division.
What is the National Duals tournament?
The National Duals tournament is a collegiate wrestling competition where teams from various universities compete in dual meet formats. Lovato’s first competition is scheduled for this tournament in Iowa.
What is a cavernoma?
A cavernoma is a brain condition involving a cluster of abnormal blood vessels, which can increase the risk of bleeding and other complications. Lovato was diagnosed with this condition, leading him to vacate his Bellator title in 2020 and preventing his return to mixed martial arts.
At what age is Lovato making his collegiate wrestling debut?
Rafael Lovato Jr. is making his collegiate wrestling debut at the age of 42.
What is Lovato’s wrestling experience?
Despite his extensive background in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and mixed martial arts, Lovato has no prior formal wrestling experience. He has incorporated wrestling techniques into his training through MMA and Jiu-Jitsu but has not competed in scholastic wrestling.
Key Features of Rafael Lovato Jr.’s Collegiate Wrestling Debut
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Age at Debut | 42 years old |
| University | Oklahoma City University (OCU) |
| Competition Level | NAIA Division |
| First Competition | National Duals tournament in Iowa |
| Previous Achievements | Former Bellator MMA Middleweight World Champion, 5th-degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu |
| Recent Wrestling Performance | Bronze medal at Freestyle Wrestling Masters Nationals in April 2025 |
| Medical Condition | Diagnosed with a cavernoma, leading to vacating Bellator title in 2020 |
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