Marlon Moraes Hip Tosses Motorist in Cop Role During Stop
Marlon Moraes hip tossed a motorist as a South Florida cop, weeks after ending a losing skid with a comeback win.
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Former UFC bantamweight title challenger Marlon Moraes used a hip toss to put down a combative motorist during a traffic stop in South Florida, video of the March 27 incident circulating widely this week.
Moraes, working as a police officer, can be seen in the footage warning the man to keep his distance after the driver repeatedly hurled insults at him and another officer on scene. When the man ignored the warnings and stepped toward him, Moraes dropped him to the pavement with the same kind of hip throw he used to build a run at 135 pounds, and other officers moved in to make the arrest.
From UFC Contender to South Florida Police Officer
Moraes left the UFC in 2023 in the middle of a seven-fight skid, one of the roughest stretches of any former title challenger in the promotion's bantamweight history. He joined the Davie Police Department in June 2024 before moving over to the Coral Springs Police Department later that year, a full career change for a fighter who once challenged for UFC gold.
The badge hasn't replaced the gloves entirely. Moraes returned to competition after three years away and beat Maximiliano Perez by unanimous decision on Aug. 28, his first win since 2019. That result, combined with a viral clip showing his takedown instincts are still sharp, has fans wondering whether a fuller comeback is realistic.
For bettors, there's nothing to price here yet since Moraes has no fight currently booked. But the Perez win matters for anyone tracking him going forward: a fighter who looked finished in the UFC just snapped a long losing streak outside it, and that's the kind of form line sportsbooks and matchmakers alike will note if he steps back into a bigger promotion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened with Marlon Moraes during a traffic stop?
Former UFC title challenger Marlon Moraes, now a police officer in South Florida, used a hip toss to take down a motorist who repeatedly confronted him during a March 27 traffic stop.
Is Marlon Moraes still fighting in MMA?
Yes, Marlon Moraes returned to competition after three years away and beat Maximiliano Perez by unanimous decision on Aug. 28, his first win since 2019.
What police department does Marlon Moraes work for?
Marlon Moraes joined the Davie Police Department in Florida in June 2024 before moving to the Coral Springs Police Department later that year.
