Big‑Time Return: Rafel “Indio” Nunes Back in the ONE Championship Cage
After a nearly decade‑long hiatus, Rafael “Indio” Nunes, the 30‑year‑old Brazilian with a 10‑1 record, finally steps back into the ONE Championship octagon.
He’s all set to light up the arena at ONE: GLOBAL SUPERSTARS in Manila on Friday, 26 January, ready to prove that the trials he endured outside the cage were nothing compared to the challenge inside.
From First Loss to the Long Road to Comeback
His first ONE bout dates back to July 2014, when he tasted defeat at the hands of former lightweight title challenger Koji “The Commander” Ando. A loss is always tough, but that one was only the tip of the iceberg.
“It was my biggest hurdle, but the real test began after the loss—my team split up, and my grandfather… he passed away,” the Sao Paulo fighter explains.
Family, Fights, and Fighter Spirit
- Early Influences – Growing up in Campinas, the young Nunes was captivated by the legendary Brazilian grappler Royce Gracie, sparking his love for BJJ.
- Training to Triumph – He blended jiu‑jitsu with other martial arts, feeling “more complete as an athlete.”
- Support Squad – His mother and grandfather cheered him on at every match, turning his 10‑0 pro streak—nine straight finishes—into a family affair.
Dark Days & Quick Recovery
After the 2014 loss, Nunes hit a series of misfortunes:
- Clavicle break (2015) – slowed his training.
- Dengue fever – kept him off the mats completely.
- Loss of his grandfather – added emotional weight.
Despite these setbacks, he stayed true to his training, emerging from the pain with renewed vigor and a fierce desire to return to the cage.
The Reignited Spirit
And now, on the cusp of his second ONE appearance, Nunes is ready to grapple, ground, and reverse the narrative. With a career‑defining comeback on the horizon, watch as this Brazilian powerhouse stops stalling and starts striking—
He’s coming for the title, and the fans are undeniably ready for the show.
Indio’s Comeback Journey
*After a painful, but healing, stretch of grief and injuries, the B‑team legend Indio has emerged from the shadows and is geared up to return to the ONE Championship cage. The old man has been stitching together another golf‑like patchwork of grappling, Muay Thai, and boxing—ready for the next big showdown.
What’s Been Going On?
- Spending three years away from the loud cheers of the arena, B‑team veteran focused on making a “well rounded” skillset.
- He’s been training hard on his striking foundation—especially Muay Thai and boxing—because his opponent, Filipino muscle‑martial artist Eric “The Natural” Kelly, is a stand‑up specialist.
- Family’s unwavering support was his lifeline: “If it wasn’t for them, I would have already given up.”
Why the Timing Is Perfect
When the opportunity arose to fight at ONE: GLOBAL SUPERHEROES in the Mall of Asia Arena in Manila, Indio was ready: “I was in good shape and this seems like an ideal matchup to re‑enter the sport.”
The Game Plan
- Keep the bout standing: “I’ll use distance to keep him at bay, throwing punches and delivering kicks.”
- Should the fight tumble to the mat, we’re on the ground: “If he wants to take me to the floor, I’ll try to finish him right there.”
In the end, Indio’s comeback isn’t just about getting back in the cage; it’s about proving that resilience and family love can transform an athlete back into a champion.
