Damian Pinas • Stats, Record and Fight History

BIO

FIGHTS

STATS

UFC HISTORY & CAREER

• UFC Fight Night(2/28/26) Pinas stopped Wes Schultz via strikes at 2:30 of the first round
• Dana White's Contender Series, Season 9
• Episode 8 (9/30/25) Pinas knocked out Vitor Costa at 1:46 of the first round

IMPORTANT FACTS

Pro Since 2022

Eight wins by KO, one by submission (D’Arce Choke)

Seven first-round finishes

Has never been to decision as a pro, longest fight: 9:20 (pro debut)

Only pro loss is a DQ due to an illegal kick in March 2024

Only fighter from Suriname & Aruba on the UFC roster

Q & A

Q: When and why did you start training for fighting?

ANSWER: I started at 19 after moving to Aruba. I was trying to be something out of my family. I didn’t have much, but I had hunger. First it was boxing at Stay Thai Fit, then MMA, and I never looked back.

Q: What professional titles have you held?

ANSWER: None yet—but that changes soon. I came through the regional scene with finishes, and now I’m here to take over in the UFC.

Q: Any accomplishments in amateur combat sports?

ANSWER: I went straight into pro fights after training, no amateur background—just boxing exhibitions to get experience. I believe real experience comes under lights with 4-ounce gloves.

Q: Any belts/ranks in grappling disciplines?

ANSWER: Blue belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Nova União. But belt or not—I’ll choke you if you give me your neck.

Q: Any belts/ranks in striking disciplines?

ANSWER: No formal belts, but I trained boxing and Muay Thai with real fighters. My hands speak louder than paper.

Q: What has been your toughest fight to date and why?

ANSWER: My toughest was the one I lost by DQ. I was dominating, but I let emotion take over. It taught me to stay calm, stay cold. That lesson made me a better fighter.

Q: Who is your favorite fighter and why?

ANSWER: José Aldo. He came from nothing, became a king, and never lost his heart. I train at his gym now—that shows you how things come full circle. Also- Israel Adesanya. I respect his creativity, striking IQ, and confidence. He performs at the highest level and keeps evolving. That’s the type of champion I’m working to become — but I’m building my own legacy.

Q: Do you have any heroes outside of fighting?

ANSWER: My heroes are my family. They believed in me from the beginning and sacrificed for me. They’re my foundation and my motivation.

Q: Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn?

ANSWER: yes and i have my diploma of college —every day I’m learning how to survive, improve, and conquer.

Q: What was your job before you started fighting?

ANSWER: I’ve done construction, deliveries, cleaning. All that taught me how to grind.

Q: Is there a cause that you want to use your platform for?

ANSWER: I want to inspire young kids — especially those who come from small places — to believe in themselves. Discipline and hard work can change your life. I want to be proof of that.

Q: Beyond a championship and money, what motivates you?

ANSWER: I’m motivated by building a better life — not just for myself, but for my future kids and my future grandchildren. I want to create generational change. I’m coming for everything.

Q: Origin of nickname:

ANSWER: The Baba Yaga comes from a legend

Q: Personal Life/Background (family stuff, kids, etc):

ANSWER: I was born in Suriname, raised in Aruba from age 16. I come from a humble family—hard-working people. I carry them with me every time I step in the cage. No kids yet—right now my only focus is fighting.

Q: Who are 3 people you'd love to meet or work with (celebrities, content creators, other fighters, sports stars)?

ANSWER: Jose Aldo (which I did and now train with him), Israel Adesanya, Joe Rogan (would be sick to be on his podcast one day)

Q: What are your hobbies, activities or other interests when not training for a fight?

ANSWER: I love making content. I also like chilling with my team, playing FIFA, and just staying close to the people who keep me grounded.

LOSS

Pinas

Almeida

KO/TKO (Punch to Head At Distance)