Juan Espino, born in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria on October 9, 1980, is recognized as the best Spanish fighter in the history of contact sports. With a solid foundation in Canarian wrestling, he demonstrated a remarkable ability to adapt to other wrestling styles, establishing himself as a sports legend.
He began his career in Canarian wrestling, reaching the 'puntal A' category and being considered one of the top 10 fighters in history. He later expanded his international experience, winning the First European Corro of Leonese Wrestling, becoming European Champion of Gouren Wrestling (Brittany), and European Champion of Tartar Wrestling (Romania).
His versatility led him to compete in Ssireum wrestling in South Korea, Celtic wrestling, and to be part of the Spanish Kabaddi team. In Senegal, he practiced Lamb wrestling, earning the nickname 'The White Lion' and becoming the first foreigner officially recognized by the National Federation.
On his path to Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), Espino won world and European championships in grappling and jiu-jitsu. His consolidation came in the UFC, where he debuted in 2020 as 'El Guapo,' becoming the first Spaniard to win in the promotion with a submission. His professional MMA record stands at 10 wins and two losses.
A chronic knee injury forced his retirement in April 2023. Almost a year later, on March 23, 2024, a tribute event titled 'La Despedida' was held at the Gran Canaria Arena, where he participated in exhibition matches to bid farewell to his fans.




