Former PFL light heavyweight champion Antonio Carlos Junior, also known as "Shoeface," will return to action this weekend in the newly structured PFL World Tournament. Carlos Junior has been absent from competition for all of 2023 and struggled in 2024. After winning the PFL light heavyweight title and a million-dollar prize in 2021, he went 1-1 last year and missed the playoffs due to injuries.
During a media day for PFL 4 held on Tuesday, Carlos Junior expressed enthusiasm about being back in the cage. "I’m just excited to be back, to be fighting. I think 2024 was not my best year, but now I’m feeling great," he stated. The PFL 4 event is scheduled for this Thursday and features quarterfinal matchups in both the heavyweight and light heavyweight divisions.
Injury has played a significant role in Carlos Junior's recent performance. He explained, "I had an injury on my knee. My meniscus was always coming out, so it was hard for me to train properly. This year I’m 100%, thank God for that.”
The tournament format has changed since Carlos Junior won in 2021. The previous points system has been replaced with a single-elimination grand prix style tournament, meaning fighters must win to advance. Notably, elbows, which were previously banned in the PFL, are now permitted, exciting Carlos Junior. "It’s great, especially for me who likes to work the ground n’ pound. I like to work on the ground. The elbow is a good weapon; I think you’re going to see me using that," he remarked.
Despite the added striking element, Carlos Junior's strength remains his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) background. "I’m always going to focus on my grappling; it’s my great weapon. I have to mix it up using every aspect of the fight—striking, Muay Thai, boxing, and everything. But I always try to get to the ground and work on my jiu-jitsu. It’s my best weapon,” he said.
When asked about the toughest grappler he has trained with, Carlos Junior identified his friend and renowned BJJ expert Marcus Almeida, also known as Buchecha, as his greatest challenge.
Fans can catch Antonio Carlos Junior’s full appearance from the 2025 PFL 4 media day for more insights leading into his comeback.
