Ricardo Evangelista was born on March 6, 1986, in Brazil. Inspired by his older brother, he began training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at age 15 under instructors Alexandre Barauna and Bruno Cunha. Under their guidance, Evangelista quickly progressed, earning his blue and purple belts. Recognizing his potential, he transitioned to Universidade Gama Filho, a prestigious academy in Rio de Janeiro that later evolved into Grappling Fight Team. This move significantly accelerated his technical development and competitive trajectory.

In October 2007, at age 21, Ricardo Evangelista received his black belt from renowned professors Julio Cesar Pereira and Marcus Bello. Training daily alongside elite athletes at GFTeam headquarters in Rio de Janeiro, Evangelista rapidly emerged as a dominant heavyweight competitor. His consistent podium finishes at major international tournaments solidified his reputation as one of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu's premier heavyweights.

Evangelista relocated to the United Arab Emirates to assume a senior instructor role within Abu Dhabi's national jiu-jitsu program. His expertise significantly contributed to the growth and popularity of grappling throughout the Middle East. Leveraging his extensive competitive experience, Evangelista founded Team Evangelista BJJ, establishing affiliate academies in both the UAE and the United States. In this leadership capacity, he mentors and develops the next generation of heavyweight competitors, further expanding his global influence.

Seeking new competitive challenges, Evangelista transitioned into mixed martial arts, compiling a professional MMA record of 3–1. Adapting his elite grappling skills to the demands of MMA competition, he effectively demonstrated the versatility and applicability of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in professional fights. Evangelista's successful transition highlights his adaptability and technical proficiency across martial arts disciplines.

Ricardo Evangelista maintains his competitive edge into his veteran years, capturing consecutive IBJJF World Master titles in 2023 and 2024 at ultra-heavyweight. In 2023, he notably stepped in on short notice to face renowned competitor Rafael Lovato Jr. at the prominent no-gi event Who's Number One, showcasing his enduring competitiveness against elite opposition. In recognition of his extensive career and contributions as both competitor and professor, Evangelista received his fourth-degree black belt. He continues to actively compete and medal internationally, demonstrating his sustained presence in competitions across Brazil, Europe, and the United States.

Beyond competition, Evangelista is a vocal advocate for improved referee standards and enhanced athlete support within international Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu events. He consistently utilizes his platform to address critical issues affecting the sport, influencing positive changes and promoting fairness and professionalism. Evangelista's outspoken stance on these matters has established him as a respected and influential voice within the global BJJ community.