Jose Delano, a former member of Brazil's cavalry-mechanized infantry, is preparing for his highly anticipated UFC debut against Robert Ruchala at UFC Vegas 115. His journey to the octagon is a testament to perseverance, unexpected turns, and a profound sense of purpose. Initially, Delano had set aside his martial arts aspirations, seeking stability in the military and then considering a career in physical education. However, a pivotal conversation with his uncle reshaped his destiny, leading him back to the sport he loved. Now, as an LFA champion, Delano views his platform in the UFC as more than just a professional achievement; it's an opportunity to share his spiritual convictions, believing divine guidance has led him to this global stage.
Jose Delano's Inspiring Ascent to the UFC Octagon
On Saturday, April 4, 2026, the Meta APEX will host UFC Vegas 115, where Jose Delano, a formidable fighter with a compelling backstory, will step into the UFC octagon for the very first time. His opponent, the former KSW champion Robert Ruchala, awaits him. Delano’s journey, however, began far from the bright lights of professional combat sports, rooted deeply in his service with the Brazilian army.
Growing up in Recife, Delano developed an early passion for martial arts. His initial foray into professional MMA was marked by a series of unregistered "underground" bouts, yielding both victories and defeats. Seeking a more structured path, he joined the cavalry-mechanized infantry in 2016, a decision that temporarily shifted his focus away from fighting. “I was adrift, unfamiliar with divine guidance,” Delano shared with MMA Fighting. “The military world consumed me, making me forget life beyond its confines. I’d surrendered my fighting dream, desiring a military career instead. It wasn't my ultimate aspiration, but I craved the security MMA couldn't offer. Yet, faith intervened, transforming my life entirely. Despite excelling as a soldier, I sensed a different calling.”
During his years in the army, Delano's athletic career lay dormant. He subsequently pursued a degree in physical education, aiming for a stable profession. The turning point arrived when his uncle, Eduardo, questioned why he was letting his obvious talent for MMA go to waste, reminding him of his deep affection for the sport. This realization prompted Delano to rekindle his fighting career.
With a renewed sense of purpose, Delano committed to winning his comeback fight before relocating to Rio de Janeiro to join a more prominent team. Despite an official record of 2-2, bolstered by his earlier "underground" experiences, he secured a victory over Leandro Lopes by submission in November 2017. Just three months later, he moved to Rio, where he began training under the tutelage of former UFC champion Murilo Bustamante at Brazilian Top Team.
Initially competing at welterweight in his unsanctioned fights, Delano readily embraced the transition to featherweight, quickly emerging as a promising prospect and eventually becoming an LFA champion. His relentless pursuit of a UFC contract culminated in a decisive victory over Manuel Exposito on Dana White’s Contender Series, finally earning him a spot in the prestigious organization.
“The past year was dedicated to reigniting my passion, truly envisioning MMA as a lifelong career, and now I’m here in the UFC,” Delano reflected. “I owe it all to the Lord Jesus. He guided me away from the military, saying, ‘Son, that chapter was essential for your growth, but it's now complete. I have a greater purpose for you: to travel the world and spread my message.’ Today, my presence in the UFC serves that very purpose, to proclaim the word of the Lord Jesus.”
Delano had previously declined complimentary tickets to UFC 301 in 2024, featuring headline bouts with Alexandre Pantoja and Jose Aldo. He preferred to wait until he could enter a UFC arena as a competitor. His first live UFC experience came in October 2025, witnessing Charles Oliveira's submission victory over Mateusz Gamrot.
“I had opportunities to attend UFC [301], when [Jose] Aldo competed,” Delano stated, “but I resolved not to attend a live UFC event until I became a UFC fighter myself. And observe what's unfolding now. There was a moment we might have stepped into the octagon, but I insisted I would only do so when it was genuinely my turn.”
The Brazilian Top Team product expressed a greater sense of calm approaching his UFC debut compared to his Contender Series appearance, feeling he has already "proven himself" to both the organization and the fans. However, he acknowledges the significantly larger platform he now occupies.
“I compete out of pure love for the sport, and I intend to deliver the same electrifying performance I always have,” Delano affirmed, anticipating a “hellaciously tough” contest against Ruchala on April 4. “No fight is easy anymore. He’s proficient both on his feet and in grappling. It’s going to be an incredible showdown. If he opts for a stand-up battle, it’ll be a three-round slugfest. He doesn’t back down easily, and neither do I. So, expect an exhilarating spectacle. We’ll likely emerge a bit battered, I suspect, but it promises three rounds of pure excitement for everyone.”
Jose Delano's story serves as a powerful reminder that life's journey often takes unexpected detours, but with unwavering faith and relentless determination, even the most ambitious dreams can be realized. His dedication to both his craft and his beliefs offers a unique perspective on what it means to be a modern athlete, inspiring others to find their true calling and pursue it with conviction.
