Junior "Cigano" Dos Santos, the formidable Brazilian mixed martial artist and former UFC Heavyweight Champion, has navigated a demanding career in the octagon, often under the intense glare of the public eye. While his professional life has been marked by thrilling victories and challenging setbacks, his romantic journey has unfolded with a blend of enduring partnerships and significant personal transitions, primarily involving two publicly known relationships that have shaped different phases of his life.
His romantic history began early with Vilsana Piccozi, a relationship that started before his professional fighting career took off. Dos Santos married Piccozi at the young age of 18, a testament to the deep roots of their connection. For over a decade, Vilsana was a constant presence by his side, not just as his wife but also reportedly serving as his manager, providing crucial support as he ascended through the ranks of mixed martial arts to become a global superstar and UFC champion. Their marriage was a foundational element of his early adult life and career, with Vilsana often credited as a key figure in his personal and professional stability.
The couple's long-standing union, spanning approximately ten years, came to an end in early 2013 when they divorced. This separation was a significant personal challenge for Dos Santos, publicly acknowledged by him as the "personal problems" that affected his focus and performance, particularly ahead of his highly anticipated rematch against Cain Velasquez at UFC 155 in December 2012. The divorce was finalized in January 2013, marking a pivotal shift in his personal life. Despite the end of their marriage, reports indicated that Vilsana continued to maintain a professional relationship with Dos Santos, even managing some aspects of his career for a period, highlighting a unique and complex post-marital dynamic.
Following his divorce from Vilsana, Junior Dos Santos began a new chapter in his romantic life with Isadora Santos. Their relationship became public around August 2013, just months after his divorce was finalized, indicating a relatively swift move into a new partnership. Isadora, a Brazilian television presenter, brought a different public profile to Dos Santos's romantic sphere. Their relationship quickly blossomed, and they were often seen together in public, signaling a serious commitment.
Junior and Isadora formalized their union, marrying in 2016. This marriage marked a fresh start for the fighter, embracing a new family life. A significant milestone in their relationship was the birth of their son, Bento, in March 2017. Fatherhood brought a new dimension to Dos Santos's life, with him often expressing the profound impact and motivation his family provided. Isadora has been a visible and vocal supporter of her husband's career, often appearing at his fights and sharing glimpses of their family life on social media, offering a more public view of his personal world compared to his previous marriage.
Isadora has also spoken about the challenges and unique aspects of being married to a professional fighter, noting the mental and physical toll the sport takes. > "I was impressed when I watched him fight the first time. He’s so good at punching people," Isadora reportedly stated, reflecting on her initial impressions. She has also emphasized the importance of maintaining respect and avoiding personal attacks in the competitive world of MMA. Their relationship appears to be strong and ongoing, with Isadora and Bento consistently featured in Dos Santos's social media and public appearances, showcasing a stable and supportive family unit that underpins his continued career endeavors.
From a decade-long marriage that saw him rise to the pinnacle of his sport to finding new love and starting a family, Junior Dos Santos's romantic journey reflects the evolution of a public figure balancing the demands of a high-profile career with the complexities of personal relationships. His history with Vilsana Piccozi provided a foundation of early support and a challenging personal transition, while his current marriage to Isadora Santos has brought a new phase of family life and public engagement, demonstrating his capacity for enduring commitment and personal growth outside the octagon.