![[WATCH] Renato Canuto Makes Thunderous MMA Debut With 51-Second TKO](https://i0.wp.com/www.bjjee.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Renato-Canuto-MMA-debut.jpg?fit=%2C&ssl=1 "[WATCH] Renato Canuto Makes Thunderous MMA Debut With 51-Second TKO")
Renato Canuto wasted no time making a statement in his long-awaited MMA debut.
The elite Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu athlete stepped into the cage for the first time as a professional fighter on May 22 at Tuff-N-Uff 144 in San Diego – and walked out with a first-round TKO victory in under a minute.
Facing Corey “The Hitman” Stewart, Canuto needed just 51 seconds to close the show.Surprisingly, the win came not through his world-renowned grappling, but through a ruthless display of striking.
After a brief exchange on the feet, Stewart initiated a takedown attempt – but it backfired.Canuto stuffed the shot and responded with a barrage of elbows, followed by relentless ground strikes, including a soccer kick that sealed the deal.
The referee stepped in to wave it off, marking a flawless debut for the 28-year-old.
An IBJJF world champion in both gi and no-gi competition, Canuto enters the MMA world already carrying one of the most accomplished resumes in modern grappling.
But, even though he is known primarily for his exciting jiu-jitsu style, Canuto barely had to use his grappling arsenal.His composed striking hinted that he may be far more well-rounded than expected.
Build Sustainable Strength—Without Wrecking Your Joints, Energy, or Jiu-Jitsu
Tired of waking up sore and burnt out after lifting?
Sloth Strength is a proven blueprint for grapplers over 35
who want to get stronger—without the pain, burnout, or injuries.
Developed from 25 years on the mats, this no-burnout approach is made
specifically for BJJ athletes in their 30s, 40s, and beyond.
