Vagner Rocha

Overview

Vagner Rocha's one UFC win came by submission, and he's also lost by submission. The grappling is the story either way.

"Ceara" is an Orthodox lightweight with a 1-3 UFC record inside a 14-4-0 professional record across all promotions. He debuted in the UFC in 2011 and carries a two-fight losing streak into his next appearance.

UFC Career

The debut came against Donald Cerrone at UFC 131, and it went the distance: a unanimous decision loss after three full rounds.

The bounce-back was his best night. He submitted Cody McKenzie in round 2 at 3:49 later that year, his only UFC win and his only finish.

Then it turned. Jonathan Brookins stopped him by KO/TKO at 1:32 of the first round in February 2012. After a gap of more than two and a half years, he returned in November 2014 and was submitted by Jake Matthews in round 2, at 1:52.

Four fights is a small sample. It still reads clearly: one win, three losses, and a debut that was his only trip to a decision.

Fighting Style

Vagner Rocha is a submission hunter. He attempts far more submissions than most UFC fighters, and that is the trait that defines him. His one UFC win came by submission in the second round.

The striking side is where he struggles. He lands less than most fighters on the feet, takes more in return, and is easier to hit than the typical UFC fighter. His accuracy, takedown rate and takedown defense all sit about even with the UFC average, so nothing there makes up for it.

His losses came by decision, KO/TKO and submission.

Notable Wins

• Cody McKenzie — submission, round 2, UFC Fight Night: Shields vs Ellenberger (2011)

Quick Facts

• Division: Lightweight
• UFC record: 1-3 (1 submission win)
• Professional record (all promotions): 14-4-0
• UFC debut: 2011
• Stance: Orthodox
• Height / reach: 5'10" / 73"
• Born: United States