Ellis “El Jefe” Badr Barboza

Once a homeless boy on the streets of Birmingham, England, with his mother, Ellis Badr Barboza has now made it his life’s mission to succeed in Muay Thai.

Barboza grew up fast, frequently finding himself in street fights. It wasn’t until he was 12 years old that he attended his first Muay Thai class, and ever since then the sport has had its hooks in “El Jefe.”

The Birmingham boy began training at CoreFit UK alongside renowned striking coach Henry Cleminson. From there, Barboza’s striking skills began to flourish as he tackled the European Muay Thai scene. 

Across 10 years of Muay Thai competition, Barboza has achieved top status in the sport. He turned professional at just 15 and entered the UK rankings by the time he was 16.

His talents have seen him become the WBC European Muay Thai Champion. Then, in 2023, Barboza won four straight fights in 126 days to catch the eye of ONE Championship.

All roads now lead to ONE Fight Night 17 on Prime Video, where the British star looks to stamp his authority against Thongpoon PK Saenchai.