UFC and Bellator veteran Guilherme “Bomba” Vasconcelos has sadly passed away at the age of 38. The news of his death was first reported by close friends on social media, including renowned jiu-jitsu coaches Cristiano Lazzarini and Vinicius “Draculino” Magalhaes. Additional confirmations about his passing came from sources speaking to MMA Fighting on Tuesday. As of now, the particulars regarding the cause of death have not been disclosed.
Born in Minas Gerais, Brazil, Vasconcelos initiated his MMA career in Rio de Janeiro. He made a stunning debut in the sport with a victory via second-round rear-naked choke against veteran Wendell Oliveira. Following an impressive win against Elizeu Zaleski, both of whom would later make their own marks in the UFC, he joined the cast of The Ultimate Fighter (TUF) Brazil 3 in 2014.
During his time on TUF Brazil 3, Vasconcelos put forth a commendable effort, finishing the reality show with a record of 1-1. His single fight in the UFC ended in a decision loss against Luke Zachrich in July 2014. However, he rebounded quickly, winning four of his subsequent five bouts, which led to a contract with Bellator.
Vasconcelos’ career in Bellator was defined by a mix of highs and lows, as he transitioned through various stages of competition. He concluded his professional MMA journey in 2019, with a record of three wins and three losses in the Bellator organisation.
Beyond the octagon, Vasconcelos briefly garnered public interest due to his relationship with pop star Demi Lovato in 2017, which highlighted his life outside of fighting.
Tributes have poured in from the MMA community, reflecting the impact he had on those around him. Lazzarini expressed his heartfelt sentiments on social media, stating, “Of all the students I had, you were the bravest. Fearless, unbeatable. In moments of chaos, a machine. In trivial moments, a sweet boy.” He described the memorable moments they shared, from training to travels, and highlighted the joy of witnessing Vasconcelos’s evolution from a blue belt to a black belt in jiu-jitsu. Lazzarini concluded his tribute with, “How much I love you. Unbelievable. Rest in peace, brother.”
As the MMA community mourns the loss of such a talented fighter, the tributes stand as a testament to the legacy Vasconcelos leaves behind. His journey through the UFC and Bellator has been marked by determination, skill, and a passion for the sport that will not be forgotten.
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