Lyoto Machida Biography: Age, Career, Net Worth, Ethnicity, Family, Wife, Children

Lyoto Carvalho Machida, known as “The Dragon,” is a Brazilian mixed martial artist celebrated for his unique karate-based fighting style and former UFC Light Heavyweight Championship title. He gained prominence in the UFC from 2007 to 2014, earning a reputation for his elusive movement and precision striking.

Machida’s victories over high-profile fighters like Rashad Evans and Randy Couture solidified his status as one of MMA’s most innovative competitors. Beyond the UFC, he has competed in Bellator MMA, continuing to showcase his skills.

Profile

• Full Name: Lyoto Carvalho Machida
• Stage Name: The Dragon
• Born: 30 May, 1978
• Age: 46 years old
• Birthplace: Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
• Nationality: Brazilian
• Occupation: Mixed Martial Artist, Coach
• Height: 1.85 m
• Parents: Yoshizo Machida, Ana Maria Machida
• Siblings: Chinzo Machida, Kenzo Machida, Take Machida Francisco Machida
• Spouse: Fabyola Machida (m. 2004)
• Children: Taiyo Machida, Kaito Machida
• Relationship: Married
• Net Worth: $4 million

Early Life and Education

Lyoto Carvalho Machida was born on May 30, 1978, in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil. His father, Yoshizo Machida, a Japanese-Brazilian Shotokan karate master, and his mother, Ana Maria Machida, raised him in Belém, Pará, alongside his brothers Chinzo, Kenzo, Take, and Francisco Machida.

Lyoto began training in karate at age three under his father’s guidance, fostering a deep martial arts foundation. Details about his formal education, including schools attended or degrees earned, are not publicly available. His ethnicity is Japanese-Brazilian, and his religion is not publicly disclosed.

Career

Lyoto Machida began his career in mixed martial arts in 2003, debuting with a decision victory over Kengo Watanabe in Japan. His Shotokan karate background, combined with training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and sumo, distinguished him from traditional MMA fighters.

Machida competed in promotions like K-1 and Jungle Fight, building an undefeated record before joining the UFC in 2007. His UFC debut saw him outclass Sam Hoger, and subsequent wins over Kazuhiro Nakamura and Rameau Sokoudjou showcased his elusive style, earning him a reputation as a rising star in the light heavyweight division.

Machida’s career peaked in 2009 when he won the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship by knocking out Rashad Evans at UFC 98. His unorthodox style baffled opponents, leading to victories over Thiago Silva and Mauricio “Shogun” Rua.

However, he lost the title to Rua in a 2010 rematch and faced challenges against top contenders like Jon Jones and Quinton Jackson. After a stint in the middleweight division, where he defeated Gegard Mousasi and lost to Chris Weidman, Machida left the UFC in 2018. His technical prowess and “Machida Karate” style influenced a generation of fighters.

Since 2018, Lyoto Machida has competed in Bellator MMA, debuting with a split decision win over Rafael Carvalho. He faced high-level opponents like Gegard Mousasi and Ryan Bader, though recent losses reflect the challenges of competing at an elite level in his 40s.

As of 2025, Machida remains active, with a professional record of 26-12. He coaches at his family’s Machida Karate Academy in Los Angeles, mentoring young fighters. His legacy as a pioneer of karate in MMA and his 2019 UFC Hall of Fame induction for his fight against Rua underscore his enduring impact.

Social Media

• Instagram Handle: @lyotomachidafw
• Facebook Handle: Lyoto Machida
• Twitter Handle: @lyotomachida

Personal Life

Lyoto Machida married Fabyola Machida in 2004, and they have two sons, Taiyo and Kaito. The family resides in Los Angeles, California, where Machida balances his fighting career with coaching and family life.

Known for his disciplined lifestyle, he adheres to a healthy diet and practices martial arts daily, often training alongside his brothers.

Net Worth

Lyoto Machida has an estimated net worth of around $4 million USD. His wealth primarily derives from fight purses, bonuses, and sponsorships earned during his UFC and Bellator careers.

He also earns from coaching at the Machida Karate Academy and endorsements tied to his martial arts legacy. His financial success reflects his long-standing career and influence in mixed martial arts.