The mixed martial arts community is in mourning following the tragic death of former fighter Geronimo dos Santos. The Brazilian athlete, who competed under the ring name "Mondragon," passed away at the age of 45 after a drowning incident in his home country.
Tragic Details of the Drowning Incident
According to reports from Brazilian authorities, the accident occurred near the town of Sao Gabriel da Cachoeira in the Amazonas region. Geronimo dos Santos entered the waters of the Rio Negro for a swim last Friday but tragically failed to resurface. Bystanders who noticed his disappearance immediately alerted emergency services.
A search operation was swiftly launched by the Fire Department, with divers scouring the river. The search concluded on Monday morning when Santos's body was discovered. It was found trapped beneath rocks on the riverbed. Local officials have confirmed that his death resulted from drowning and is being treated as a tragic accident, with no indications of foul play. The challenging conditions of the fast-moving river are believed to have been a contributing factor.
The municipality of Sao Gabriel da Cachoeira released an official statement expressing condolences: "In this moment of grief, we express our deepest condolences to all family and friends. May God grant them strength and comfort to overcome this great loss."
A Storied MMA Career and UFC Stint
Geronimo dos Santos enjoyed a long and globe-trotting professional MMA career, facing opponents across South America, Europe, and Asia. Known for his aggressive and resilient fighting style, he became a familiar face in promotions such as RIZIN and Mr. Cage.
His career reached a significant peak in 2012 when he earned a contract with the premier Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). He was scheduled to make his debut against Gabriel Gonzaga at UFC 153 in Rio de Janeiro. However, the bout was cancelled after Santos tested positive for Hepatitis B, which led to him being medically disqualified. Due to regulations from North American athletic commissions, he was subsequently released from the UFC roster.
Legacy and Final Fights of 'Mondragon'
Geronimo dos Santos compiled a formidable record over his career, stepping into the professional cage for 72 fights and securing 45 victories. He remained active in combat sports until very recently, demonstrating remarkable longevity.
In his final fight this past April, Santos scored a impressive first-round knockout victory over former UFC heavyweight Aleksei Oleinik at a Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship event. He was also slated to face another UFC veteran, Andrei Arlovski, in June but withdrew from the contest.
His sudden passing has sent shockwaves through the international MMA world. Santos is remembered as a fearless competitor who dedicated his life to the sport, leaving behind a legacy of perseverance and passion that resonated with fans worldwide.
