From Bullied Teen to Rising MMA Star: Lucas Gabriel’s Journey to ONE Championship
Lucas Gabriel’s road to the global stage of ONE Championship is a story of grit, sacrifice, and resilience.
The 25-year-old Brazilian will face Chinese veteran Zhang Lipeng in a high-stakes lightweight bout at ONE Fight Night 31 on May 2 at Bangkok’s famed Lumpinee Stadium. It marks the biggest opportunity yet for the Curitiba native, whose path to the top has been anything but easy.
Raised in modest circumstances, Gabriel grew up with the steady support of his hardworking mother and stepfather. But school was a battleground — persistent bullying and academic struggles pushed him to leave the classroom behind. Fearing for his future, his mother enrolled him in martial arts. It was a life-changing decision. In the gym, Gabriel found belonging, confidence, and a glimpse of the future he wanted.
He quickly excelled in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai, eventually stepping into the amateur MMA cage at just 15. A tough loss only fueled his hunger to improve, and he soon made the sport his life’s mission.
Balancing work with daily training, Gabriel honed his craft, eventually amassing a 6-1 professional record on Brazil’s MMA circuit by the end of 2022. A key turning point came when respected coach Ocimar Costa invited him to help train former ONE Champion John Lineker. Gabriel’s dedication impressed Lineker’s manager, Alex Davis, who offered him a career-changing opportunity: a chance to fight at ONE Friday Fights — but only if Gabriel could relocate to Thailand on his own dime.
With unwavering family support, Gabriel took the risk. He moved to Thailand with his wife and infant daughter, despite language barriers and no guarantees. The gamble paid off: Gabriel debuted with a win in March 2023, then notched key victories over Kurnabali Isabekov and undefeated Gadzhimurad Amirzhanov, showcasing his potent mix of BJJ black belt skills and striking power.
Now, on the cusp of his biggest moment yet, Gabriel is unfazed by Zhang’s experience edge. Confident in his conditioning and versatility, he’s eager to make a statement in his debt at the monthly fight series.
“I’m ready for anything,” Gabriel said. “If it’s on the ground or on the feet, I’ll be prepared. I’m confident I’ll win,” Gabrielsaid.
