Hello Vinicius, can you please introduce yourself to our readers?
Hi, it’s a pleasure to participate in this interview. I am 23 years old, from Bariri, Brazil. Currently, I’m living and training in São Paulo. I’m a brown belt under Cicero Costha and I have been training Jiu Jitsu for 8 years.
Is it your first time participating in Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu Jitsu Championship?
No, this is my third time, and the most memorable was when I won the blue belt competition.
How is your training going leading up to the ADWPJJC?
I came to do a camp in Switzerland, so I’m training Jiu Jitsu twice a day and doing physical preparation 3 times a week, but in Brazil I do Jiu Jitsu once a day and I do physical preparation 6 times a week. I’m also working with a nutritionist and a physical trainer.
How did the sport of Jiu Jitsu impact you on a personal level? Why do you recommend youth to practice the sport?
I started training to improve my physical condition, and I fell in love with the art. Today I can’t go a single day without training. It was very good for my self-esteem and self-confidence. I recommend it because we learn discipline, respect to others, it improves the motor skills and also boost our self-confidence.
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 think it’s a very beautiful and structured city, ideal to host such an important event as the World Pro. I think it’s also very good because you don’t need to have a visa, allowing all athletes to participate.
Who influenced you the most in developing your BJJ game?
I really like Leandro Lo’s fighting style, I have a style similar to his, both playing and passing the guard.
Would you like to give any advice to our readers that would help them either on the mat or in their lives?
As difficult as things are, as we have very difficult times in the past, always have faith in God and don’t give up on your dreams. Because sooner or later God will honor you. If you have a dream, whatever it is inside or outside Jiu Jitsu, work hard and in the right time the victory will come.
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!