Former UFC fighter Godofredo ‘Pepey’ Castro has passed away at the age of 38 while in prison, just a few months after being arrested on charges related to an alleged assault on his wife, Samara Mello.
Castro was detained without bond following a domestic violence arrest on June 30 in Deerfield Beach, Florida. He faced charges including battery, kidnapping, and tampering with a victim.
According to court documents, an altercation arose between Castro and a female victim due to issues of ‘jealousy’. Castro allegedly took her phone, dragged her by the hair, and choked her until she lost consciousness, as reported by MMA Junkie.
Prosecutors accused Castro of throwing the victim to the ground and striking her in the face multiple times.
Court proceedings were in progress, and Castro maintained his innocence regarding the charges.
Mello and her attorney, Gaudenio Santiago, were notified of Castro’s passing on Sunday (November 9).
“The death of someone in custody is a serious matter,” Santiago stated according to the Daily Star.
“There are procedures that must be adhered to by the American authorities, and any updates will be provided by them. In the meantime, I urge for respect towards the family, specifically his wife Samara, and request that malicious comments and speculations be avoided to prevent additional distress.”
A department spokesperson informed MMA Junkie that Castro was discovered unresponsive in his Fort Lauderdale jail cell with a sheet around his neck on Saturday (November 8).
Emergency services responded promptly, but Castro was pronounced dead later at Broward Health Medical Center. Authorities do not suspect foul play.
Tributes have been steadily coming in for the former UFC athlete, particularly from his previous colleagues who were acquainted with him.
Former UFC fighter Rony Mariano Bezerra shared on Instagram: “I’m here to bring some terrible news. Unfortunately, we lost our partner, Godfredo Pepey. 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.”
Castro, originally from Brazil, participated in UFC 11 times after appearing in ‘The Ultimate Fighter Brazil, Season 1’.
He held a 5-6 record in the UFC and an overall 13-7 record as a professional fighter.
His final fight as a professional took place in February 2022.
Inquiries have been made to Broward Sheriff’s Office for further comments.