UFC fighter Godofredo “Pepey” Castro was found dead in a Florida jail, where he was serving a sentence and awaiting trial on domestic-violence charges.
Castro had been in custody since late June after a violent incident in Deerfield Beach involving his wife, Samara Mello.
He was arrested on felony counts that local reports list as kidnapping with bodily injury, domestic battery by strangulation, battery, and witness-tampering; an immigration hold was also placed on him.
According to the reports, his bail was set at around $120,000, but he was kept in prison under an immigration hold.
Pepey’s Death Was Apparently a Suicide
Castro pleaded not guilty, and his case was ongoing at the time of his death, which was an apparent suicide, according to his former teammate Rony Jason.
The 41-year-old Brazilian MMA fighter said in an Instagram Video;
“I’m here to bring some terrible news. Unfortunately, we lost our partner, Godfredo Pepey. Unfortunately, he couldn’t handle the pressure and ended up taking his own life, may this serve as an example. Fighters can be very strong physically, but if their mind is unstable, they can end up committing an act like this. Very sad to lose this great partner, an unparalleled guy. A partner, a friend, a brother. Wherever you are, may God bless you. I love you brother.”
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Authorities say the 38-year-old was discovered unresponsive in his cell during routine checks; the death is being treated and remains under investigation.
According to the Broward Sheriff’s Office, Castro was found with a sheet around his neck and was pronounced dead after being taken to the Broward Health Medical Center.
Samara Mello and her legal representative were notified by U.S. authorities after the prison death.
Mello’s lawyer urged respect for the family and warned against speculation while the official inquiry proceeds; Mello herself had posted about domestic violence after the arrest, calling attention to abuse in the sports world and thanking supporters.
The Broward Sheriff’s Office has said the death is being investigated and that foul play is not suspected; an official cause will be released after the medical examiner completes its review.
Castro’s passing closes a criminal case that will now be handled differently under custody death protocols and leaves many questions for both U.S. authorities and those close to him in Brazil.
Additional Information
- Pepey, the late Brazilian MMA Fighter, had a 5-6 record in the UFC.
- He retired in February 2022, having compiled a 13-7 Overall record as a professional.
