Juliana Velasquez Bio
Juliana Velasquez Tonasse is a Brazilian professional mixed martial artist competing in the flyweight division of Bellator MMA. She is the former Bellator Women’s Flyweight World Champion, known for her strong judo background and effective mixed martial arts skills.
Early Life and Background
Born on October 19, 1986, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Juliana Velasquez was introduced to judo by her father at the age of four. She developed her skills over the years, competing at a high level in the South American judo circuit and earning several medals. Despite her success, she did not secure a spot on the Brazilian Olympic Judo team.
After her judo career, Velasquez transitioned to mixed martial arts at age 28, leveraging her grappling expertise. She resides in Rio de Janeiro and holds a black belt in judo, which forms the foundation of her fighting style in MMA.
Path to MMA
Velasquez began her professional MMA career in 2014 after a successful amateur debut by submission. She quickly made a name for herself in regional Brazilian promotions, winning the 1RC Vacant Bantamweight Championship and defending it once. Her early success earned her a multi-fight contract with Bellator MMA.
Her transition from judo to MMA was marked by rapid development, with her grappling skills proving effective against a variety of opponents. She gained national attention in Brazil, notably involved in a campaign against violence toward women, which highlighted her presence in the sport.
Juliana Velasquez Career
Early Career (2014–2017)
Juliana Velasquez started her professional MMA career in 2014, quickly amassing a 5–0 record in regional Brazilian promotions. She demonstrated her submission skills and striking ability, which helped her capture and defend the 1RC Bantamweight title. Her performances attracted the attention of larger organizations.
Her early career was characterized by steady growth and skill refinement, setting the stage for her entry into Bellator MMA. She showed versatility and resilience, essential traits for success at higher competition levels.
Bellator MMA Breakthrough (2017–2022)
Velasquez made her Bellator debut on December 1, 2017, against Na Liang, winning by second-round armbar submission. She continued to build momentum with victories over Rebecca Ruth, Alejandra Lara, Kristina Williams, and Bruna Ellen, showcasing her striking and grappling capabilities.
Her career-defining moment came on December 10, 2020, when she defeated undefeated flyweight champion Ilima-Lei Macfarlane by unanimous decision to claim the Bellator Women’s Flyweight World Championship. She successfully defended the title once against Denise Kielholtz in 2021.
In 2022, Velasquez faced Liz Carmouche in a title defense but lost the championship via elbows from a crucifix position. A rematch later that year also ended in defeat by armbar submission. Despite these setbacks, Velasquez remained a top contender in the division.
Professional Fighters League Era (2024–Present)
In 2024, Juliana Velasquez joined the Professional Fighters League (PFL), debuting at PFL 1 with a loss to Liz Carmouche. She rebounded with a TKO victory over Lisa Mauldin at PFL 4. Velasquez was announced as a participant in the 2025 PFL Women’s Flyweight Tournament.
In the 2025 tournament quarterfinals, she faced Ekaterina Shakalova, losing by rear-naked choke in the first round. She later avenged this loss with a unanimous decision win in a rematch at PFL 9, demonstrating her continued competitiveness at the highest level.
Fighting Style and Strengths
Velasquez fights from a southpaw stance and is known for her strong judo base, which she integrates effectively into her MMA grappling and submissions. Her reach and height advantage in the flyweight division complement her striking and clinch work. She is recognized for her strategic approach and ability to adapt during fights.
Notable Events and Milestones
Key milestones in Velasquez’s career include winning the Bellator Women’s Flyweight World Championship and successfully defending it once. Her victory over Ilima-Lei Macfarlane marked a significant upset and established her as a top fighter in her division. Her involvement in a campaign against violence toward women also highlights her impact beyond the cage.
Juliana Velasquez Career Wins
Juliana Velasquez has accumulated a professional record of 14 wins and 4 losses across multiple promotions. Her victories include submissions, knockouts, and decisions, reflecting a well-rounded skill set.
Bellator MMA Highlights
Velasquez secured several important wins in Bellator, including her championship victory over Ilima-Lei Macfarlane. She defended her title successfully once before losing it to Liz Carmouche. Her Bellator tenure solidified her reputation as one of the top female flyweights globally.
Other Wins and Performances
Before joining Bellator, Velasquez captured and defended the 1RC Bantamweight Championship in Brazil. Her early career success laid the foundation for her rise in international MMA competition.
Juliana Velasquez Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
Juliana Velasquez was introduced to judo by her father, who played a pivotal role in her early development in martial arts. Details about her wider family background are not publicly documented.
Personal Life
Velasquez resides in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. There is no public information available regarding her marital status or children.
2025 Season Performance
In 2025, Juliana Velasquez is competing in the PFL Women’s Flyweight Tournament. After an initial loss in the quarterfinals, she secured a unanimous decision win in a rematch, demonstrating resilience and determination. Her performances this season will be crucial as she aims to regain championship status and continue her professional growth.