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Caio Borralho and Stake: The Fighting Nerds Project in the UFC
From Maranhão to the Fighting Nerds: Caio Borralho's UFC journey, results updated in 2026 and the nature of his collaboration with Stake.
Published by The Gambling Desk ·
- Weight class
- Middleweight
- Team
- Fighting Nerds
- UFC ranking
- No. 5 as of 24 July 2026
Caio Borralho has not merely risen through the middleweight ranks. Together with the Fighting Nerds, the Brazilian has built a collective identity based on method, preparation and a highly technical reading of MMA. His public collaboration with Stake accompanies this journey without being conflated with his sporting results.
From Maranhão to Mixed Martial Arts
Born in the state of Maranhão, Borralho discovered judo as a child, then Brazilian jiu-jitsu at the age of 18. He turned professional in MMA in 2014. This foundation explains a profile that is less one-dimensional than his power might suggest: he can manage distance on the feet, change levels and work on the ground.
This journey also feeds into the image of the Fighting Nerds, the São Paulo team of which he is one of the leading faces. Symbolic glasses, analytical preparation and group cohesion set this collective apart in a sport often centred on individuals.
Two Contender Series Appearances Before a UFC Contract
Borralho appeared twice on Dana White's Contender Series in 2021. His first win, earned on points, did not immediately result in a contract. He returned a few weeks later and finished his fight in the first round. That second demonstration opened the door to the UFC.
He made his debut with the organisation in April 2022. His initial run notably took him up against Makhmud Muradov, Michał Oleksiejczuk, Abus Magomedov and Paul Craig. His five-round victory over Jared Cannonier in August 2024 marked his transition from prospect to credible contender.
Defeat against Imavov, Then the Response in 2026
Progress is not linear. In September 2025, Nassourdine Imavov beat Borralho by unanimous decision and ended a fourteen-fight winning streak. The Brazilian nevertheless remained close to the top of the rankings.
On 7 March 2026, he dominated Reinier de Ridder by unanimous decision at UFC 326. As of 24 July 2026, the UFC's official record lists him with 18 wins and 2 losses and ranks him fifth at middleweight. These figures are dated: both his ranking and record will need to be checked again after his next fight.
The Fighting Nerds as a Collective Project
The team's nickname is more than a visual device. It encapsulates an ambition to treat fighting as a problem to solve: studying the opponent, repeating sequences and making tactical adjustments. Borralho embodies this approach while leaving room for the group's other fighters.
This collective dimension sets his profile apart from that of an already established champion. His editorial interest lies in the building of a project, his ability to bounce back and the still-open race towards the middleweight title.
What Is the Relationship between Caio Borralho and Stake?
Stake features Borralho in its official area dedicated to UFC partnerships. The collaboration has been publicly documented since autumn 2025 at the latest. The brand's page highlights fight-related content, promotional activities and experiences for its community.
This visibility extends Stake's presence in Brazilian MMA, but does not allow any sporting performance to be attributed to the partnership. Results, rankings and scheduling remain the responsibility of the UFC.
FAQ
What Is Caio Borralho's UFC Ranking?
The UFC ranks him number five at middleweight as of 24 July 2026. That position may change each time the rankings are updated.
Did Caio Borralho Win His Latest Fight?
Yes. He beat Reinier de Ridder by unanimous decision on 7 March 2026, after his loss to Nassourdine Imavov in September 2025.