Hello Mani, can you please introduce yourself to our readers?
My name is Mani Tavanaei. I was born in Iran, but I live in Spain, where I teach Jiu Jitsu.
Is it your first time participating in Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu Jitsu Championship?
No, in 2017, I placed second in adult brown belt. In 2018, I placed 4th in adult black belt.
How is your training going leading up to the ADWPJJC?
I trained very hard for this event, I did strength and conditioning and took care of my nutrition.
How did the sport of Jiu Jitsu impact you on a personal level? Why do you recommend youth to practice the sport?
Jiu Jitsu is my lifestyle. It impacted me in every way so that I could become a professional athlete. I recommend young people to train Jiu Jitsu because it will benefit them, no matter what their objective is. Losing weight, getting in shape, making friends, or competing.
How do you see Abu Dhabi hosting global Jiu Jitsu championships and giving the chance for athletes to compete against the best in the world?
I am very grateful for the opportunity that Abu Dhabi gives to the athletes to compete at the highest level. Abu Dhabi really values the athletes and I feel very good competing here.
Who influenced you the most in developing your BJJ game?
My professor Mathias Ribeiro and his professor Mario Reis.
Would you like to give any advice to our readers that would help them either on the mat or in their lives?
I am only going to give 2 pieces of advice. Before crossing the street, look both ways. Also, I recommend living life with humor and happiness.
We care about Jiu Jitsu so much that we decided to create this page for all the people like us – that eat, breath and live the Jiu Jitsu Lifestyle! We truly hope our content will make every one of your days better, on the mat and off the mat!