“Behind every successful man, there is a woman,” they say. However, in the case of UFC’s reigning 205lbs champion, Alex Pereira, it’s not just a woman who has been instrumental in his success, but his first MMA coach, Plinio Cruz. The 2024 MMA Coach of the Year has been an integral part of the Brazilian’s journey since his transition from kickboxing to MMA, helping refine his Jiu-Jitsu and overall technique. Beyond his coaching duties, Cruz has also served as Pereira’s translator during media interactions, bridging the language barrier with ease. Furthermore, he has stood by ‘Poatan’ through online criticism, always supporting him in the background.
What many don’t realize is that Plinio Cruz was once a fierce fighter himself, competing across various promotions. Just two years older than Alex Pereira, Cruz’s mentorship has been crucial in shaping the Brazilian into the dominant light heavyweight champion he is today. Under his guidance, the Brazilian has defeated former champions such as Israel Adesanya, Jan Blachowicz, and Jiri Prochazka. With all the success Pereira has achieved with Cruz in his corner, many fans are curious about Cruz’s own fighting career. Let’s dive into the story of the man who has played such a pivotal role in shaping one of UFC’s brightest stars.
Plinio Cruz and his fighting career: MMA record and stats
Plinio Cruz began his fighting career in New Jersey, training under Jorge Patino at the Newark-based Gold Team Fighters, where he earned black belts in both Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Judo. Starting his training at just 16 years old, Cruz quickly made a name for himself in the São Paulo regional scene, competing in the heavyweight division. Within six months of training, he gained momentum, securing three consecutive victories—two in São Paulo and one in the U.S. However, his path wasn’t without its challenges, as he faced defeats in two of his subsequent bouts.
The Theatre at Virgin Hotels LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – DECEMBER 5: Alex Pereira and Plinio Cruz walk the red carpet at the Fighters Only World MMA Awards at The Theatre at Virgin Hotels on December 5, 2024, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Alejandro Salazar / SPP PUBLICATIONxNOTxINxBRAxMEX Copyright: xAlejandroxSalazarx/xSPPx spp-en-AlSa-20241205_FSP0089
Despite these setbacks, Cruz once reigned as the Cage Fury Fighting Championship Heavyweight kingpin. Both triumphs and struggles marked his career in mixed martial arts, as he competed in various regional promotions, including M-1, Ring of Combat, CFFC, and others. Ultimately, Cruz’s professional record ended at 8-9, with a standout fight in Bellator adding to his legacy.
Plinio Cruz’s gym and coaching career
Last year at the World MMA Awards, Plinio Cruz was honored with the 2024 Coach of the Year award, recognizing his pivotal role in Alex Pereira‘s incredible success. Cruz’s coaching journey began at Gold Team Fighters, training in the metro New York area, where he laid the groundwork for a career that would become truly exceptional. Today, Cruz owns and operates his own gym by the name of Cruz MMA in the tri-state area, with the motto “Where Champions Are Made.”
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Greateful for everything that happened in my life this year and to be able to spend my Birthday doing what I love the most … Training ! Chama #cruzmma #coachcruz #ufc #pliniocruz #39 #chama pic.twitter.com/IKDBeg3c1s
— Plinio Cruz ( Coach Cruz ) (@pliniocruzmma) January 1, 2025
As head coach, he provides expert training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, MMA, Kickboxing, and Muay Thai. One of Cruz’s notable students is Laura Sanko, a fighter-turned-UFC broadcaster, who has been training under Cruz for 17 years. Over the years, Sanko even gave Cruz the nickname “Tweetie Bird.” Whether working with athletes aiming for a professional career or fitness enthusiasts looking to incorporate martial arts into their routines, Cruz remains dedicated to helping fighters reach their full potential at every level.
How much does Plinio Cruz weigh? Height, reach, and more
During his fighting career, the 6’1″ Plinio Cruz competed in both the light heavyweight and heavyweight divisions. However, his transition to heavyweight in later fights suggested potential health issues, which may explain his noticeable weight gain today. According to Sherdog, Cruz weighed around 239 lbs during his prime, but Tapology records from his canceled MMA bout at CFFC 41 list him at approximately 264.8 lbs.
Now retired from competition, Plinio Cruz appears to have put on even more weight. Based on his current physique, he may outweigh former UFC heavyweight champion, Daniel Cormier, though no official figures confirm his present weight. As Alex Pereira prepares for his biggest challenge yet against Magomed Ankalaev for the light heavyweight title at UFC 313, the spotlight also falls on his mentor, Plinio Cruz. With Cruz and Glover Teixeira in his corner, can the Brazilian overcome Ankalaev’s formidable skill set and retain his belt? Share your thoughts.
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