Ismael and Gabriel Bonfim are two Brazilian brothers taking the UFC by storm. “Cashing checks and snapping necks” As Will Ferrell once said and that’s just what the brothers Bonfim are doing so far, both winning their octagon debuts by stoppage. Fantastic first impressions by both men have hardcore fans wondering how high they can climb…
The Bonfims were born in Brasilia, Distrito Federal, Brazil. Ismael first in 1995 then Gabriel in 1997. They both gravitated toward boxing from an early age and had successful amateur careers in Brazil. The elder “Marreta” or sledgehammer amassed over 30 fights but never turned professional while “Marretinha” (little sledgehammer) became an amateur national champ before going 5-0 as a professional.
Gabriel is now 25 years old, winning all 14 fights by finish since 2014. Ismael faced a tougher path, losing two of his first three bouts. Two of his three losses are to current top Bantamweights around the world, One Championship’s Adriano Moraes (20-4) and UFC’s Renato Moicano (17-5-1). “Marreta” hasn’t lost since 2014, riding a 13-fight win streak.
Both Bonfims appeared on Dana White’s Contender Series in 2022 on the same night and scored contracts. They doubled down in 2023 on Brazil’s first UFC pay-per-view card since COVID hit in 2020. First Ismael flying kneed his opponent for a highlight-reelworthy finish. Then three fights later, Gabriel submitted his opponent in 49 seconds. Safe to say the Bonfim family BBQ was bumping that night. Currently, both brothers have no bout lined up, but impressive starts to their UFC careers have the Light and Welterweight divisions on notice.
Ismael “Marreta” Bonfim | 19-3 | 5’8 155 lbs. | Age 27 | Reach 71” | Orthodox Stance | Fighting Out of Brasilia, Distrito Federal, Brazil
Gabriel “Marretinha” Bonfim | 14-0 | 6’0 170 lbs. | Age 25 | Reach 72” | Orthodox Stance | Fighting Out of Brasilia, Distrito Federal, Brazil
Check out some of our recent highlight videos >
Follow Ismael on Instagram > @ismael.marreta
Follow Gabriel on Instagram > @gabrielbonfi
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