Bellator Signs Explosive Capoeira Stylist Marcus ‘Lelo’ Aurelio

Bellator Fighting Championships continues to expand its roster, on Monday announcing the signing of Marcus “Lelo” Aurelio to its welterweight division.

Aurelio (6-1) will make his promotional debut at Bellator 73 on Aug. 24, which also features a battle between Bellator featherweight champion Patricio Frere and challenger Pat Curran, as well as the Season 6 Bantamweight Tournament final between Luis Nogueira and Marcos Galvao.

For those longtimers out there wondering, Lelo should not be confused with Marcus “Maximo” Aurelio, once one of the top lightweight fighters in the world.

“Marcus is an absolute explosive anomaly in our sport,” said Bellator Chairman & CEO Bjorn Rebney. “If you have never seen him fight, you are missing something totally unique and special.  Marcus brings a completely unique style and confidence to the cage that I’ve never seen before.  It will be great to see how his explosive Capoeira translates in the Bellator cage.”

“I’m really excited to have signed with Bellator,” Aurelio said. “I’m happy that they see my potential. I know they have some of the best fighters in the world and I’m ready to prove my worth against top tier competition. This is a huge accomplishment for me and everyone who has helped me get to where I am.”

After beginning his professional career in 2005, Lelo has compiled an impressive 6-1 record, including five highlight-reel knockouts. Aurelio, who is a practitioner of the Brazilian martial art Capoeira, is well known for using his unpredictable and violent art to confuse and devastate opponents that choose to step in the cage with him.

“I feel that my style of fighting is very dynamic and explosive,” said Aurelio. “I certainly don’t enter the cage to win on points. It’s instinct for me; I’m always looking to finish my opponent. I think it’s exciting for the fans.”

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