Godofredo Castro de Oliveira, the former Brazilian fighter in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), known as "Pepe," died at the age of 38 in his cell at the main Broward Sheriff's Office jail in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in an incident believed to be a suicide by hanging using a bedsheet, according to media reports.
The Florida police confirmed that Castro was found unresponsive during a routine evening check, and was transported to the hospital where his death was pronounced. No criminal intervention is suspected, and investigations are ongoing to determine the official cause, but initial reports indicate an apparent suicide.
The Story of "Pepe's" Detention in American Prisons
"Pepe," born on July 2, 1987, in Fortaleza, Brazil, had been held without bail since June 30, 2025, after being arrested in Deerfield Beach on serious charges including kidnapping with bodily harm, domestic violence by strangulation, witness tampering, and assault.
The charges stem from a domestic violence incident with his wife Samara Melo, where he is accused of dragging her by her hair, choking her until she lost consciousness, and slamming her head on the ground, resulting in a broken tooth and visible swelling.
The wife's lawyer, Gaudino Santiago, issued a statement confirming that the family received an official notification from the American authorities, requesting privacy and respect for the family, emphasizing that Samara is the only one authorized to handle the body's repatriation to Brazil.
Who is Godofredo Castro "Pepe"?
In the world of mixed martial arts (MMA), Castro was known for his participation in the first edition of "The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil" in 2012, where he reached the final and lost to Rony Mariano Bezerra.
He fought 11 matches in the UFC between 2012 and 2018, achieving 5 wins and 6 losses, and earned 3 "Performance of the Night" bonuses for his quick submission finishes. Overall, his professional record stands at 14 wins, 7 losses, and one no-decision.
Comment from His Friend
In related news, his friend and colleague from the show, Rony Jason (Bezerra), commented on social media: "Unfortunately, he couldn't bear the pressure and ended his life. This may be a lesson; fighters are physically strong, but if the mind is unstable, they might commit such an act."
