Former UFC contender Antonio Rogerio Nogueira has transitioned from the Octagon to the boxing ring, proving that his competitive spirit remains undiminished despite his age. After officially parting ways with UFC in 2020 following a split-decision loss to Mauricio Rua, Nogueira focused on coaching but re-emerged in combat sports through exhibition matches. Most recently, the 48-year-old showcased his prowess by scoring a knockout victory against Fabio Tadalafellas at Fight Music Show 6 on May 17, 2025. This triumph adds another feather to his cap, as he maintains an undefeated 2-0 record in exhibition boxing.

In July 2020, Antonio Rogerio Nogueira left the UFC after a close contest against Mauricio Rua, which concluded his tenure in mixed martial arts (MMA). However, this departure marked not an end but rather a shift toward nurturing younger fighters as a coach. His journey back into competition began in 2022 when he defeated Leonardo Guimarães via unanimous decision in an exhibition match. Since then, Nogueira's dedication to staying active and relevant in combat sports has been evident.

Nogueira’s latest performance at Fight Music Show 6 highlighted his enduring skill set. The event featured several high-profile matchups, including a main card headliner between Acelino Freitas and Duda Nagle. In his co-main event bout, Nogueira faced off against Brazilian fighter Fabio Tadalafellas. Despite starting cautiously, Nogueira quickly adapted, accelerating his pace during the second round and ultimately securing a decisive knockout victory. The swift conclusion of the fight demonstrated his tactical acumen and physical dominance even at 48 years old.

Though Nogueira’s career in the UFC ended less than ideally, his legacy as one of MMA's most respected figures persists. Known for his accomplishments in PRIDE and the UFC, he continues to inspire fans and aspiring athletes alike. With each new venture—whether coaching or competing—he reaffirms his status as a living legend in combat sports.

The knockout win against Fabio Tadalafellas underscores Nogueira’s commitment to excellence beyond the UFC. By balancing mentorship with personal challenges like exhibition fights, he exemplifies resilience and adaptability. As he advances further into boxing, it will be fascinating to witness how he continues shaping both his own legacy and the future of those fortunate enough to train under him.