Rafael Natal is a Capoeira and BJJ stylist currently competing in the middleweight division. A Brazilian native, Natal now makes his training out New York where he is a member of the Renzo Gracie Fight Team. Natal is a solid jiu jitsu player who trains under both Renzo Gracie and Vinicius "Draculino" Magalhaes - who promoted Natal to black belt in 2009.

Natal comes from a grappling background and will try and take his opponent to the ground. Although he isn't an elite wrestler, Natal effectively incorporates an assortment of trips, throws and wrestling takedowns to try and get the fight to the mat. He also shows good takedown defense, but is certainly capable of handling himself well if he ends up on his back. Natal is a strong BJJ player who holds solid credentials and accomplishments from his days as a competitive jiu jitsu player. Among them he is a two-time Minas Gerais State Champion (2003, 2004), a Mundials Gold Medalist (2005 - Blue Belt Division) and a legitimate black belt under Vinicius Magalhaes. Natal possesses a patient ground game - methodically making his way to better positions on the mat. He shows nice guard passing skills, good transitions and possesses a sound submission game - both offensively and defensively. Natal is very comfortable fighting off his back, where he's proven especially effective operating from half guard. Sapo isn't known for his aggressiveness on the ground, and will patiently bide his time in waiting for submission opportunities. Natal's also proven he can incorporate his striking into his ground game, showing strong punches and hammer fists from top position (see his TKO win over Travis Lutter).

Despite of his jiu jitsu base, Natal appears quite comfortable keeping the fight standing. He works his jab and leg kicks from the outside, and is able to throw nice high kicks with both legs. Natal's equipped with good power and a good right hand. At times he will appear a little stiff and tentative on his feet, and will need to continue working on his standup game. Natal prefers fighting at a slower pace and keeping the striking on the outside. He doesn't like trading from in close and will need to improve his clinch skills and striking from close range. Natal has been dropped and hurt in the past, and should continue working on his head movement and defensive striking game.