Tag: jiu-jitsu

The tornado guard is a variation of the inverted guard that was created by multi time world champion Roberto “Cyborg” Abreu. The original inverted guard was developed by Roberto “Roleta” Magalhaes.

In the original inverted guard, the guard player turns upside down and uses their legs to control their opponent. Setting up various sweeps and submissions, which includes numerous triangle choke set ups.

Later on, Cyborg Abreu would begin developing his own version of inverted guard from half guard that he called tornado guard. Abreu claims that he first started developing the tornado guard, when he was a blue belt.

Blending his use of the half guard along with his explosiveness and flexibility to set up powerful sweeps. The main difference between the two styles of inverted guard is that Roleta’s is a bit more fluid. 

It is also played more from an open guard style, where tornado guard is played more from half guard. But for those that like playing half guard, the tornado guard variation is a great option.

The techniques from this guard are fast, powerful, and hard to defend,

How Does the Tornado Guard Work?

The tornado guard works as a basic push and pull scenario. Pushing your opponent one way and pulling yourself under them to create your sweep opportunities.

Your top leg first works as a knee shield and then rotates over your opponent’s arm. As you make this turning motion, you also roll on your shoulder to invert under your opponent.

This twisting motion looks similar to a tornado, which is how Cyborg got the name for his guard. When you put these movements together, it becomes a powerful movement that is hard to stop. Which is why the tornado guard has gained popularity with half guard players. 

Tornado Guard Setup

The basic tornado guard setup starts from a knee shield/Z guard style of half guard. Your knee is pressed on your opponent’s shoulder and you’re gripping their lapel.

While you’re gripping your opponent’s lapel, you’re going to take a pistol grip on your opponent’s pant leg. Specifically the leg that you’re controlling in half guard. This pistol grip is crucial for the sweep and you cannot forget it.

Once you’ve got your grips, you have to push your opponent back to get a reaction out of them. Doing this also gives you the space to invert and set up your sweep.

When your opponent comes back forward, you’re going to take off your knee shield. Pulling your leg out and putting it over your opponent’s arm.

Then at the same time, you move your leg to the front of their body, you’re going to begin to invert. Keep your grips and roll under your opponent.

To get your opponent more forward on top of you, use your lapel grip to pull them forward. Once you pull them forward, switch your hand to control their triceps to prevent them from basing out.

Now that you’re in position, kick your free leg out to create a pendulum to sweep your opponent with ease. You end up on top in a pseudo north-south position with different finishing options.

Finishes From Tornado Guard

As Cyborg showed in the video above, there are two common finishes for the tornado guard sweep. Those being either a kimura or transitioning to side-control.

If you’d like, you can also go to an arm bar, Americana, knee on belly, or a bow and arrow choke. You have a lot of different options off of this powerful sweep.

No-Gi Tornado Guard Sweep

You may think the tornado guard is Gi only due to the grips, but Cyborg also came up with a No-Gi version. Here is how you do the No-Gi version of the tornado guard.

The position starts the same as the Gi variation from a knee shield/Z guard style half guard. Instead of a collar grip, you’re going to reach across your opponent’s body and grab their triceps.

For your leg control, you’re going to slide your arm under your bottom leg and hook your opponent’s leg. The back of your hand is going to be on the side of your opponent’s knee.

Once you have your controls, take off your knee shield, and turn your body to begin your spin. When you spin, your bottom leg slides between your opponent’s legs and you hug their thigh with your bottom hand.

Just like the Gi version of the guard, you also control your opponent’s triceps in the No-Gi version. From there, kick your leg to start the pendulum and take your opponent over for the sweep.

Tornado Guard Sweep Variation

There’s another good sweep from tornado guard when you don’t have a knee shield. Your opponent is giving heavy pressure on your chest and attempting a back step pass.

When they do this, you’re going to take a thumb-in grip on their collar. You’re also going to use the same pistol grip on the pant leg as the original sweep in this guard.

After setting your grips, your opponent will continue their pass attempt. As soon as they sit on their outside hip is when you go into your sweep.

They sit on their hip and you use your grips and momentum to invert and flip over. Landing in half guard on top and getting two points for the sweep.

Inverted Tornado Sweep

There’s another sweep variation from the guard called the inverted tornado sweep. For this sweep, the grips are different from traditional tornado guard.

For this version, you cross grab your opponent’s sleeve and and take a same side collar grip with your other hand.

Next, take your knee shield and pummel it across your opponent’s body. You’re going to turn all the way to your knees and keep your sleeve grip.

The opponent will come up thinking that they can control your body and grab a body lock. When they do this, you’re going to trap their ankle with your foot and hold their arm to your body tight.

From there, you’re going to go into the inverted tornado sweep. Keep your grips and roll over your inside shoulder to take your opponent over.

Important Tips and Details For Using Tornado Guard

This is a powerful guard, but if you leave out any details, the guard won’t work. Here are some important tips to remember when using the tornado guard.

• Start in Knee Shield: Tornado guard always starts from a knee shield/Z guard style half guard. This is because you need to create space in order to create the space to twist and invert.
• Pistol Grip Leg: When holding Z guard, remember that you need to take a pistol grip on the leg you’re holding half guard on.
• Leg Over Arm: Remember to lift your leg over your opponent’s arm after you push them back. This allows you to spin, invert, and create force for your sweeps.
• Pull Opponent  Forward: Don’t forget to use your lapel grip to pull your opponent forward. This will pull them off base and allow you to get them up for the sweep.
• Hold the Tricep: After you pull your opponent forward, remember to hold their triceps. This will prevent them from basing out to defend the sweep.
• Kick Leg: Once you’re under your opponent, kick your leg like a pendulum to create more force to take them over.

Name:	Rubens Charles
Date of Birth:	Londrina, Parana, Brazil
Place of Birth:	December 24th, 1979
Nickname:	Cobrinha
Academy:	Cobrinha Jiu Jitsu Academy
Team:	Alliance
Height:	5 ft 4 in (1.63 m)
Weight:	154 lb (70 kg; 11.0 st)
Weight Class:	Featherweight
Championships:	5x IBJJF World Champion, 4x IBJJF No-Gi Champion, 3x ADCC Champion

If you were to create a list of all time grapplers, Rubens “Cobrinha” Charles would definitely be on there. He is arguably the greatest lightweight BJJ competitor to ever live and honestly one of the best overall.

Here is everything you need to know about the great Rubens “Cobrinha” Charles. Detailing his journey through Jiu Jitsu and how he became one of the accomplished athletes of all time.

Rubens “Cobrinha” Charles Entry Into Jiu Jitsu

Rubens Charles grew up in the Brazilian city of Sao Carlos within the state of Sao Paulo. At first, Charles played football(soccer) like a normal Brazilian kid, until he discovered Capoeira.

He became incredibly passionate about the dancing/fighting art and  trained everyday. Being part of a group called “Grupo dos Jangadeiros” ran by Capoeira Master Antonio Zacaria.

Charles would practice Capoeira everyday for fourteen years and would eventually become a master at the fighting art. 

Jiu Jitsu wouldn’t come into Rubens’ radar until he was introduced to the grappling art by a friend. His friend invited Charles to the academy’s inauguration and to take a free class. 

At the class, Rubens Charles discovered that his grappling ability as a martial artist was incredibly lacking. A purple belt would beat him for the entirety of the class.

After the harsh lesson, Rubens decided that he wanted to dedicate his time to learning Jiu Jitsu. He would begin taking classes under Mauro Pacifico, who owned a school closer to his home.

During his transition to BJJ, Charles would train everyday, multiple times per week.

Cobrinha Begins Training Under Fernando Terere

At his first state Jiu Jitsu championship in Sao Paulo, Rubens Charles would perform well. But he would come up short losing in the finals to a student of BJJ great Fernando Terere. 

After the loss, Professor Terere would invite Cobrinha to come to Sao Paulo and train with him. With the approval of his Professor Mauro, Charles would move to Sao Paulo to train under Terere.

It was a hard life sleeping on the mats Team TT, but Rubens learned a lot in those four months. He would train everyday with the likes of Andre Galvao, Lucas Lepri, Leandro Martins, Eduardo Telles, and Terere himself.

After the period of training with Team TT, Terere would award Charles with his black belt.

Rubens ”Cobrinha” Charles Joins Alliance

In 2007, after winning his first world title, Cobrinha found himself without an academy. Team TT would shut down due to the long history of mental illness and drug abuse that Terere suffered from.

To earn money and have places to train, Rubens Charles would begin holding seminars. One in particular was held in the city of Atlanta at Jacare Romero’s Jiu Jitsu academy. Co-founder of Alliance and master of Alliance leader Fabio Gurgel.

Romero was so impressed with Cobrinha’s abilities that he offered him a teaching position at his academy. Cobrinha would take the position and while training with Jacare, he would become one of the best grapplers ever.

Rubens “Cobrinha” Charles Grappling Career

Cobrinha had one of the most storied grappling careers of all time. Winning all of the major championships multiple times. Here is a timeline of his championship wins and how he earned them.

IBJJF Championships(2006-2009) 

In 2006, Charles would make his initial black belt debut at the 2006 IBJJF World Championship. He had a rough training camp due to Terere’s problems, but had an amazing performance.

Cobrinha would submit all but his last opponent in Marcio Feitosa, who he would beat 8-0. Securing his first world title in dominant fashion.

Charles would come back in 2006 to repeat as champion, while representing Alliance for the first time. Yet again beating all, but one opponent by submission and securing his 2nd world title by submitting Mario Reis.

In 2008, Cobrinha would once again show that he was the premiere lightweight grappler in the world. Submitting three of his four opponents to win his third world title in the Gi.

Then in 2009, Cobrinha would prove once again that he was one of the best grapplers in the world. Going through his toughest test to win his fourth world title in a row.

World No-Gi Championships (2007, 2008, 2011, 2012) 

After losing in the opening round of the 2006 ADCC Trials, Charles realized that he needed to improve his No-Gi skills. The loss would fuel him to train hard and develop his No-Gi game.

The work would pay off as Charles would also win the No-Gi World Championship in 2007. The same year that he won his second world title in the Gi.

In 2008, Cobrinha would repeat as No-Gi world champion, the same year he won his third Gi world title. Easily beating his first two opponents and beating Jeff Glover in a back and forth war in the finals.

Cobinha would not compete at No-Gi Worlds again until three years later in 2011. He would win his third No-Go world title in two hard fought victories against Renan Borges and Justin Radar.

Then in his last appearance at No-Gi Worlds 2012,  Charles would once again come out on top. Winning the fourth No-Gi world title of his career.

ADCC Championships (2013, 2015)

Towards the end of Charles’ professional grappling career, he would turn his attention to conquering the ADCC. By 2013, this was the only major grappling title that Cobrinha had yet to win.

After two attempts in 2009 and 2007, Charles would successfully win his first ADCC title on his third attempt. Beating Rafael Mendes in the finals, who had bested him in the previous ADCC tournament.

Two years later, Cobrinha would come back to attempt to retain as champion. It would be another successful outing for Charles as he would earn his second ADCC title in four hard fought victories.

Cobrinha Charles’ Final Year of Competition 

In 2017, after having one of the greatest grappling careers in the history of Jiu Jitsu, Cobrinha would announce his retirement. This year would be his final year of competition and he wanted to go out with a bang.

He competed in the European Open, Pan American, Brasileiro, IBJJF World Championship, and ADCC 2017.

European Open/Pan American/Brasileiro

The first event of Cobrinha’s retirement tour would be at the European Open. There, he would dominate his four opponents to win his second European Open title.

Pan American would be his next stop, where Charles would earn the fourth Pan title of his career. Easily dispatching his competitions.

Then his third stop would be in Brazil at the Brazilian Nationals. This would be his one and only appearance at the Brasileiro, where he would add another title to his collection.

IBJJF Worlds 2017 & ADCC 2017

The last two stops of Cobrinha’s retirement tour would be at the IBJJF World and the 2017 ADCC Tournament. His last IBJJF Worlds appearance would be one of Charle’s toughest tests.

All of his four matches were battles with razor thin decisions. Winning two matches by advantage and two by referee decision to earn his fifth and final IBJJF World Championship.

Then Charles would make the final stop of his career at ADCC 2017. At the tournament, he would prove for the last time that he is the greatest lightweight competitor of all time.

Beating all four of his competitors, including Paulo Miyao and AJ Agzaram in the semis and finals. The whole crowd stood to their feet to cheer on Cobrinha and thank him for all he had done for the sport.

Rubens “Cobrinha” Charles Grappling Style 

Cobrinha Rubens Charles is known for his impressive guard game, which includes being an expert at DLR guard. But overall, Charles has one of the most rounded grappling styles of all time.

He developed an impressive wrestling game and mixed it with his incredible balance from years of Capoeira training. 

In his 139 BJJ matches, Cobrinha only tasted defeat 21 times. An incredible feat that shows just how great he was.

The Legacy of Rubens “Cobrinha” Charles

Rubens “Cobrinha” Charles has seen and done it all in the sport of Jiu Jitsu. He won every major title multiple times, but on top of this, Charles is an incredible ambassador for the sport.

Since retiring, Cobrinha now runs his own academy, where he has thousands of students. Including coaching his son Kennedy Maciel, who is a world class grappler just like his father.

Name:	Giancarlo Bodoni
Date of Birth:	October 15th, 1995
Place of Birth:	Miami, Florida, USA
Academy:	New Wave Jiu Jitsu
Affiliation:	Formerly Alliance
Trainer:	John Danaher, Lucas Lepri
Weight Class:	Heavy, No G-i Weight Classes, Under 91.5 kilograms (202 lb)
Championships:	ADCC Champion, IBJJF No-Gi Champion(Brown Belt)

Giancarlo Bodoni is a name that you probably didn’t know before last year. But within a year, he evolved into an elite grappler and came out of nowhere to win the ADCC championship.

Here’s everything you need to know about reigning ADCC champion, Giancarlo Bodoni. Going from his time under the Alliance affiliation and now training under the tutelage of mastermind John Danaher. 

Giancarlo Bodoni’s Start In Jiu Jitsu

Giancarlo Bodoni grew up in Florida and started practicing martial arts at a young age. At first, he was introduced to Karate when he was five and then Taekwondo.

Bodoni would practice both Karate and Taekwondo until the age of twelve. That is when he would discover Jiu Jitsu and begin training under Rillion Gracie.

Under Rillion, Giancarlo would train under him for eight years and work up to the rank of purple belt.

Giancarlo Bodoni’s Travels

When Bodoni was twenty two, he was given the chance to travel to Rio de Janeiro. There, he would fulfill a goal of training in the birthplace of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

While in Rio de Janeiro, Giancarlo Bodoni would train primarily with GF Team affiliate schools. He would befriend future BJJ champion Gutemberg Pereira.

Before returning home, Pereira would invite Bodoni to come with him to Toledo, Ohio. There he would train along Gutemberg for a short time and improve his skill.

Bodoni Joins Alliance

After Bodoni completed his travels, he would move in with his father, who had recently relocated to Charlotte, North Carolina. As luck would have it, this is where BJJ champion Lucas Lepri’s Alliance BJJ school was located.

Giancarlo Bodoni quickly signed up with Lepri’s school and became an official student of Alliance Jiu Jitsu. He would spend a year training with Lepri, who would promote him to brown belt.

His skills had greatly improved, which led to a job offer from another BJJ champion in Bernardo Farias. The creator of BJJ Fanatics had just opened a school in northern Massachusetts and wanted Bodoni to be an instructor.

This was another opportunity that Giancarlo could not pass up to teach and train under a 4x champion.

Giancarlo Bodoni’s as a Brown Belt Competitor

When BJJ became Giancarlo’s full time job in 2019, he would greatly improve his skills. Becoming one of the best brown belt No-Gi competitors in the world.

In late 2019, Bodoni would win the No-Gi World Championship at brown belt and the No-Gi Pan American Championship in 2020. The biggest wins of his career up until this point.

Winning these major grappling championships would lead to Giancarlo being promoted to black belt. The ceremony took place in North Carolina, where he was promoted by Lucas Lepri.

Giancarlo Bodoni’s Struggles

Even though Giancarlo Bodoni was now a black belt, he went through some tough struggles as a competitor for the next two years. He had good skills, but he was lacking in many facets of No-Gi.

This would lead Bodoni to go into a drought. He would go through fades of losing multiple matches in a row, then win a few, and repeat the cycle.

The worst of his struggles happened at the end of 2021. Bodoni would lose six straight matches to numerous high level grapplers.

Giancarlo Joins New Wave Jiu Jitsu

After going through numerous struggles as a competitor, Bodoni was desperately looking for ways to improve. This would lead him to reaching out to master BJJ coach John Danaher.

Giancarlo Bodoni knew John from when Danaher would visit Bernardo Faria’s school to film instructionals. The two developed a rapport and Danaher would always pick his brain when he was in town.

This connection would lead to Giancarlo reaching out to John when he and Gordon Ryan moved to Austin. Danaher would invite Giancarlo to train with him and improve his No-Gi skills.

As Danaher has openly said, Bodoni had glaring holes in his game. He had no leg lock defense or knew how to attack from his back.

The first months of training were brutal for Giancarlo. He would get beat down in multiple training sessions per day that would break most young grapplers.

But Bodoni would persevere and continue developing his skill and building his confidence.

Giancarlo Bodoni’s ADCC Breakout

Going into one of the ADCC US East Coast Trials, Bodoni was ready to prove himself. He spent months developing his skills and building up his confidence to get ready for the trials.

At the ADCC US East Coast Trials, Bodoni would show that he had the skills of an elite grappler. In his seven matches, Bodoni would submit five of his opponents and not get a point scored on him.

One of the submission wins was against young standout Jacob “Hillbilly Hammer” Couch. Bodoni would punch his ticket to the ADCC tournament and look to shock everyone.

Giancarlo Bodoni’s Breakout Performance

Giancarlo Bodoni came into ADCC 2022 under the radar of the spectators. Nobody expected much from him and figured he would be an early elimination.

Everyone assumed that Dream Art creator Isaque Bahiense would make easy work of Bodoni. But Giancarlo had other plans as he dominated Bahiense with wrestling to win 6-0.

In the next match, Giancarlo would fast No-Gi world champion Matheus Diniz. This would be a statement win by Bodoni in the first round of competition.

He would consume Diniz with pressure to open up the opportunity for a triangle choke. After beating two of the top 88 kg competitors got people talking.

On day two, Bodoni was ready for the semifinals against Irish grappler Eoghan O’Flannagan. Both would hunt for leg locks, but training under Danaher had Giancarlo well prepared for the match.

O’Flannagan would make a critical error when going for a heel hook and left his leg exposed. Leading to Bodoni to lock up a footlock and punch his ticket to the finals.

Giancarlo Bodoni vs. Lucas Barbosa

In the finals, Giancarlo Bodoni would face division favorite Lucas “Hulk” Barbosa. Hulk had actually beaten Bodoni multiple times in previous competitions before meeting in the ADCC finals.

Barbosa assumed that he had Giancarlo figured out, but the young American would have a surprise for him. From the first moments of the match, Bodoni was all over Barbosa.

Dominating the hand fights from standing, landing takedowns, and gaining dominant positions. By the end of the match, Bodoni was well up on points, but kept looking for the finish.

He would get to Hulk’s back and lock up a Rear Naked Choke to win the ADCC championship. The biggest win of his young career.

The Evolution of Giancarlo Bodoni’s Grappling Game

Before joining New Wave Jiu Jitsu, Giancarlo was a decent black belt, but not an elite level competitor. He had a few good aspects to his game, but also had numerous holes in his game. 

By working with Danaher, Giancarlo Bodoni greatly improved his skill and fixed his flaws. Not only fixing his technical flaws, but also his mental flaws and developing more confidence within himself.

All of this was brought together and Bodoni evolved into a world class Jiu Jitsu athlete.

What’s Next For Giancarlo Bodoni?

Giancarlo proved that hard work and perseverance can improve your confidence and develop you into a better version of yourself. He went from a decent black belt to world class Jiu Jitsu athlete in just over a year of training.

Proving that the sky’s the limit for anyone if they’re willing to work hard enough for their goal. We’ll definitely be seeing Giancarlo Bodoni in the mix winning grappling world titles for many years to come. 

Nicholas Meregali is one of the most gifted athletes in all of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. He has won it all in the Gi and is now focusing on winning world championships in No-Gi.

• Name: Nicholas Meregali
• Nickname: Alemao
• DOB: May 27th, 1994
• Academy: New Wave Jiu Jitsu(Formerly Alliance)
• Affiliation: Formerly Alliance
• Championships: 3x IBJJF World Champion, 4x Brazilian Nationals Champion

Here is everything that you need to know about multi time world champion Nicholas Meregali. We’ll be detailing his career for his start in BJJ, winning world titles, and his recent transition to No-Gi Jiu Jitsu.

Nicholas Meregali’s Entry Into Jiu Jitsu

Nicholas Meregali grew up in the southern Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul. His younger brother would actually begin learning Jiu Jitsu before him.

After Nicholas’ younger brother started learning BJJ, he would return home and show him the techniques he learned. This would spark Nicholas’ interests and pretty soon, he would join his brother in Jiu Jitsu class at age 16.

The two would initially train at the ACBJJ Jiu Jitsu academy in Santo Antonio run by black belt Jeferson Adan. Jeferson quickly realized that young Nicholas had a knack for Jiu Jitsu and would do really well in competition.

After a year of training, Nicholas Meregali would become a blue belt and win every major title within Brazil. Including a state and national Jiu Jitsu title.

Meregali Trains Under Mario Reis

After winning everything at blue belt, Nicholas Meregali wanted to take his skills to the next level. But in order to do that, he would need a change of scenery.

He then decided to move from Santo Antonio to Porto Alegre, where world champion Mario Reis was located. At the time, Reis was the most distinguished BJJ champion to ever come from southern Brazil.

Meregali knew in order to further develop his skills, he would need to train under Reis. He would become Reis’ pupil and quickly take over the lower Jiu Jitsu ranks.

Nicholas Meregali Wins Everything

After beginning his training under Reis, Nicholas Meregali would transform into one of the best grapplers in the world. Once he earned his purple belt, Nicholas would begin clearing out the lower BJJ ranks.

At purple belt, he would win every single major BJJ championship. Then at brown belt, he would become even more of a force. Not only winning every major BJJ title, but winning double gold at each of the tournaments.

This dominance of the lower ranks would lead Mario Reis to promote Meregali to black belt in 2016. Nearly every BJJ and grappling publication deemed Meregali the next big thing in Jiu Jitsu.

Nicholas Meregali’s Competition Career

Nicholas Meregali’s competitive career as a black belt has been a successful one. Including 2 IBJJF world titles and 4 Brazilian National titles. Here is a breakdown of how he won those titles.

Meregali’s 4 Brazilian National Titles (2018, 2019, 2022) 

In 2018, Nicholas Meregali was coming off a breakout rookie year as a black belt in 2017. The highlight of his sophomore year as a black belt was winning his first Brazilian National title.

In his first time competing in the Brasileiro as a black belt, Meregali came into the competition fully prepared to dominate. He would compete in the super heavyweight division and his skills were leagues better than his opponents.

Meregali would quickly submit all four of his opponents to earn his first Brazilian National title. A year later, Meregali would come back in 2019 and improve on his 2018 performance.

Not only did win his division, but he also won the absolute division. Submitting all, but one opponent during the entire tournament.

Then in 2022, Meregali would come back to win his fourth Brazilian National title by submitting Felipe Andrew in the finals.

Meregali’s IBJJF Titles (2017 & 2019) 

Meregali’s rookie season as a black belt was in 2017 and the expectations could not have been higher. But Meregali exceeded everyone’s expectations that year.

Early on in the year, Nicholas had to deal with adversity as he lost both divisions at that year’s Pans Championship. The two losses were to multi time world champion Leandro Lo.

Meregali would come into his first world title tournament focused and ready. Submitting his first three opponents to meet Lo in the finals. 

This time, Meregali would get the better of Leandro and beat him 2-0. Earning his first title as a black belt.

Then in 2019, Nicholas would be looking to bounce back after losing in 2018 to Marcus “Buchecha” Almeida. Winning his division, but losing to Keenan Cornelius in the quarter finals of the absolute division.

Meregali’s Disqualification In 2021 

In 2021, Nicholas Meregali was as dominant as ever at the IBJJF World Championship. He would initially win his division and looked like he was going to win the absolute division.

That was until, the IBJJF reviewed tape and showed that Meregali had violated the athlete code of conduct. During his match with Victor Hugo, Meregali would give a heckling fan the finger.

This would lead to Meregali losing the title and being disqualified from the absolute division. The lapse in judgment cost Meregali his third world title and stained his impressive career.

Nicholas Meregali Wins Worlds 2022

After being disqualified in 2021, Meregali was out to redeem himself in 2022. He would lose by points to Erich Munis in the super heavyweight division, but refocused for the absolute division.

In the absolute division, Meregali would submit all of his opponents. Including avenging his loss Erich Munis by submitting him in the absolute finals.

The crowd came to their feet as Nicholas Meregali had redeemed himself.

Meregali’s Transition To No-Gi

In 2022, Nicholas Meregali had the Jiu Jitsu world talking once again. He announced that he would finally be transitioning to compete in No-Gi after winning multiple titles in the Gi.

Then in another shocking announcement, Nicholas would also be joining New Wave Jiu Jitsu. The newly formed team was run by mastermind John Danaher and Gordon Ryan.

Under Danaher’s mentorship, Meregali would quickly pick up the No-Gi Jiu Jitsu game.

He would make a successful debut in No-Gi at WNO 13 submitting his opponent with an arm triangle.

Then after beating Rafael Lovato Jr at WNO 14, Meregali was invited to the 2022 ADCC Tournament. Nicholas would be competing in the heavyweight division and absolute division with less than a year of No-Gi training.

The lack of experience would not seem to matter as Nicholas made an impressive ADCC debut. Beating former champion Yuri Simoes and placing third in his division.

Then he would reach the finals of the absolute division and lose to Simoes by decision. Coming into ADCC with less than a year of No-Gi training and earning a silver and bronze was an impressive feat.

Nicholas Meregali’s Grappling Style 

Meregali is known for having an incredible open guard game. Particularly his prowess in using a mixture of De La Riva and Lasso guard that he sweeps everyone with.

But what makes Nicholas Meregali such a special BJJ athlete is his ability to finish matches. He doesn’t try to win by points and is always going after the submission.

In his 68 wins as a black belt competitor, Meregali has submitted 48 of his opponents. Giving him a submission percentage of 71%.

An insanely high submission rate that puts him in special company with the likes of Roger Gracie and Gordon Ryan. This goal of always going for the submission has made Meregali a favorite among grappling fans.

What’s Next For Nicholas Meregali?

After accomplishing everything within the Gi, Nicholas Meregali is still striving to get better. Since joining forces with John Danaher and Gordon Ryan, it is scary to think how much better he can get.

Nicholas is now reaching the prime of his athletic career and looking to make his mark in the history books. He could very well become one of the greatest grapplers of all time when it’s all said and done.

• Name: Fabricio Andrey
• Nickname: Hokage
• DOB: March 5th, 2000
• Academy: Melqui Galvao BJJ
• Affiliation: Melqui Galvao BJJ/Fight Sports
• Championships: IBJJF World Champion, Brazilian National Champion

Fabricio “Hokage” Andrey is one of the most entertaining young grapplers in all of Jiu Jitsu. Known for doing his power up foot stomp before every match and from that point, he just keeps coming forward.

Here’s everything you need to know about Fabricio Andrey. Covering his BJJ journey from his start in Jiu Jitsu to becoming a world champion at a young age.

Fabricio “Hokage” Andrey’s Entry Into Jiu Jitsu

Fabricio Andrey grew up in the central Brazilian city of Manaus within the state of Amazonas. He was born into a family of martial artists as his father was an accomplished capoeira instructor.

Andrey would take up the family trade from an early age and would become well-versed in the Brazilian striking art. When Fabricio was thirteen, he would start learning Jiu Jitsu through a social project created by Melqui Galvao.

Galvao is known as one of the best BJJ instructors in Manaus and even the world. As soon as Fabricio began learning Jiu Jitsu, he was hooked and wanted to become a professional grappler.

Fabricio Andrey Becomes a BJJ Competitor

Even though Andrey was young, he took his BJJ training really seriously. He would quickly become one of the top competitors in Galvao’s school along with his son Mica Galvao and Diogo Reis.

As a green belt, Hokage was already training with the competitors of the school. His talent was undeniable and his instructor knew that Fabricio was going to be a special athlete.

Fabricio Andrey’s Time Training With Alliance

When Andrey became a blue belt, he wanted to make an effort to reach the IBJJF World Championship in California. To reach this goal, he would need to switch cities to make realizing this dream more feasible.

With the support of his instructor Melqui, Andrey would move to Sao Paulo. Once there, he would join the Alliance Matriz Academy and be part of the early Dream Art Project.

He would train mostly with DAP during this time. Alliance leaders Fabio Gurgel and Michael Langhi would promote Fabricio to brown belt and brown belt.

During his time training with Alliance and DAP, Andrey would realize his dream. Winning world championships at the blue and purple belt levels. Also winning the European Open at brown belt.

Fabricio Andrey Returns To Manaus

Hokage would not win a world championship at brown belt due to the Covid Pandemic, which canceled the event. This would lead Andrey to return home to Manaus and begin training with Professor Melqui.

He wanted to pay respects to his original Jiu Jitsu instructor and be given his black belt by him. Melqui Galvao would promote Fabricio Andrey to black belt in August of 2020.

Andrey returning to Manaus also meant that he would be training again with his old friends Mica Galvao and Diogo Reis.

How Did Fabricio Andrey Get His Nickname?

If it isn’t obvious, Fabricio Andrey is a big fan of the anime Naruto. He loves the anime so much that he would call himself a “Hokage” when he was training.

His teammates would even start calling him Hokage and began printing the name on his competition Gis. Now everybody that knows Andrey refers to him as “Hokage.”

Fabricio “Hokage” Andrey’s Grappling Career (So Far)

Hokage has only been a black belt for a little more than two years. But in that time, he has won a world title and competed in the sport’s biggest competitions. Here is a breakdown of his grappling career so far.

Fabricio’s Early Black Belt Career

Due to the pandemic, Andrey didn’t get to compete much as he would’ve liked as a brown belt. After getting his black belt, he would make his black belt debut in late 2020.

He would lose his debut at a BJJ Bets event to Meyram Maquine. Andrey would also lose to Maquine in the AJP RIo Grand Slam finals a few months later.

Even though he would suffer these early losses, Andrey would bounce back and become a world class competitor.

Hokage’s Road To Winning IBJJF Worlds

After suffering a few losses early in his black belt career, Andrey would hit his stride in 2021. Winning back to back tournaments at the SA Continental Pro and the 2021 Miami Grand Slam event.

He would then start to make his bid to qualify for the 2021 IBJJF World Championship. Fabricio would come up short in the Pan American Championship. Losing to Jamil Hill Taylor by advantage after submitting his first three opponents.

But Hokage would bounce back and win big at the Brasileiro Championship. Then after a good showing at the IBJJF World Pro event, Andrey qualified to compete at the world championship.

His first IBJJF Worlds event as a black belt. This time, Andrey would not be denied and put on a dominant performance.

Beating his first three opponents to set up a rematch with Jamil Hill Taylor in the finals. This time, he would get the better of Taylor and submit him with a triangle to win his first world title at black belt.

Andrey’s Road To ADCC 2022

In 2022, Fabricio Andrey would go through a tough training camp to qualify for ADCC 2022. In the first Brazilian trials, both he and his teammate Digo Reis would be in the same division.

The two would meet in the semifinals, where Andrey would lose to his teammate by inside heel hook. Disappointed, but not down, Andrey would bounce back and enter the second ADCC Brazilian trials event.

This time, Hokage would not be denied as he submitted all five of his opponents in the second trials event. Punching his ticket to the 2022 ADCC tournament.

While preparing to compete at the 2022 ADCC event, Andrey would win the Brasileiro for the second time. Then at the ADCC tournament in Las Vegas, Andrey would face tough competition, which included teammate Diogo Reis in his division.

In the opening round, Andrey would face 17 year old AoJ phenom Cole Abate, who had a lot of hype behind him. Andrey would use his experience to shut  the young grappler down to advance to the next round.

Teammate Diogo Reis would be his next opponent and would beat Hokage for the second time. Reis would also go on to win the ADCC title that year.

Andrey also competed in the absolute division and lost to Victor Hugo in the opening round by submission.

The Manaus Boys

Fabricio Andrey is one of the three grapplers under Melqui Galvao that have become known as “the Manaus boys.” A group of young black belt competitors that have already won world titles before the age of twenty five.

Together, they are a strong force that will continue to be one of the top young grapplers for years to come.

Fabricio Hokage’s Grappling Game 

Just like his Manaus teammates, Hokage has a well rounded grappling game. But how Hokage differs from his teammates, he enjoys a pressure style of game.

Once the match starts, he goes full force the entire duration and doesn’t get tired. Andrey has great speed and conditioning along with being well rounded that has helped him win numerous big tournaments 

What’s Next For Fabricio Andrey?

Fabricio Andrey has a bright future ahead of him in Jiu Jitsu. As long as he stays focused and continues to train hard, he’ll likely continue being an elite level grappler. Possibly even winning more world championships in the near future.

• Name: Micael Galvao
• Nickname: Mica
• DOB: October 8th, 2003
• Academy: Melqui Galvao BJJ
• Affiliation: Melqi Galvao BJJ/Fight Sports
• Championships: IBJJF Champion, Brazilian Nationals, 2nd Place ADCC

Mica Galvao is one of the most talked about rising stars in all of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. He earned his black belt before the age of 20 and is destined to become one of the all-time greats. 

Here is what you need to know about Micael “Mica” Galvao. Going over how he was raised into grappling and how he was polished to become a world champion.

Mica Galvao Being Born Into Jiu Jitsu

Micael Galvao grew up in Manaus, the capital of the Brazilian state Amazonas. From the time he was born, Mica was destined to do great things in Jiu Jitsu. 

His father is BJJ black Melqui Galvao, who is one the premier BJJ instructors in Manaus. Galvao was born on the Jiu Jitsu mats and was playing on them since before he could walk.

By the time Mica was four years old, he had begun his formal Jiu Jitsu training. Galvao’s whole life evolved around developing his grappling ability. 

When he was 10, Mica also began learning Luta Livre Esportiva. Brazil’s version of catch wrestling under instructor Totonho Aleixo.

Galvao would also add amateur wrestling and Judo to his training during his teens. Everyone around Mica knew that he would quickly become a skilled grappler.

Mica Galvao’s Early Domination of Jiu Jitsu

From the time Mica was a preteen, people were talking about just how special of an athlete he was. His first major title in Jiu Jitsu came when Galvao was twelve, winning the Brazilian Nationals Junior division, when he was twelve.

The next year at thirteen, Mica would repeat as Brazilian Nationals Champion in the teens division. Beating kids 15-16 years old who were twice his size and higher ranked.

At the same time Mica was also winning tournaments in Luta Livre, Judo, and beach wrestling.

Mica Galvao Beating a Black Belt at 15

When Mica was just fifteen years old, he would earn his blue belt and get a superfight offer. What was different about this offer was that it was against black belt Leandro Rounaud, who recently won the Manus Open.

The whole BJJ community in Brazil would watch this match with great interest to see if Galvao’s hype was real. It would turn out that Mica Galvao was indeed for real.

He handedly beat Rounaud by submission, who was considered one of the best athletes in the state. Then in the same year, Galvao would win every major title as a teen in BJJ.

Not only winning every major BJJ championship in the world, but winning double gold at the events. Everyone knew that Mica was the next big thing.

Mica Galvao’s Quick Promotions Through The Adult Ranks

As noted, Mica was already a blue belt by the time he was fifteen years old. Having already the abilities of a high level black belt, he would go through the adult ranks rather quickly.

In less than a year as a blue belt, Mica would be promoted to purple belt on November 16th, 2019. He would spend a little more than 11 months at purple belt and win every possible championship.

Mica would be promoted to brown belt on October 22nd, 2020 when he was just seventeen. Then just another ten months later, Galvao would be awarded his black belt by his father.

At just seventeen, Galvao was already a black belt and ready to take on the best BJJ athletes in the world. Also right before earning his BJJ black belt, Galvao would also earn his black belt in Luta Livre.

Mica Galvao’s Grappling Career(So Far)

Galvao hasn’t spent long on the pro level circuit, but he has already had fantastic showings. Here are some of the highlights of Mica Galvao’s career so far.

World Pro & ADCC Trials Brazil 

Mica’s big splash as a black belt came at the IBJJF World Pro event at the end of 2021. He would face some stiff competition in the 77 kg division, but was game to take them on.

At the event, Galvao would dominate his division with four straight finishes by submission. The last two were Levi Jones in the semi finals and European champion Espen Mathiesen by ankle lock.

But Galvao would top this performance with his first competition in 2022 at the ADCC Brazil Trials. He put on one of the most talked about performances of the year in the ADCC Trials events.

Mica walked through his competition with ease, submitting all four opponents, which included Magid “Gorilla Hands” Hage in the finals. Punching his ticket to his very first ADCC tournament in late 2022.

BJJ Stars, Brasileiro, IBJJF Worlds 

Before ADCC 2022, Mica would have three more incredible performances. The first at the BJJ Stars 83 kg tournament, the Brasileiro, and then the IBJJF Worlds.

At the BJJ Stars tournament in Sao Paulo, Galvao was the young gun of the competitors. He put everyone on notice in the first round by beating the beloved Leandro Lo in the first round. 

Then after an injury to Mauricio Oliveira in their semifinals match, Mica would submit Lucas Barbosa by bow and arrow choke. Winning the competition and earning one of the largest paydays of his young career.

Then at the IBJJF Worlds, Mica would have one of the toughest tests of his career. That year, there were 16 competitors in the 76 kg division.

His biggest wins would come in the semifinals and finals. Submitting AoJ standout Jonnatas Gracie and winning by points over one of his young rivals in Tye Ruotolo. Earning his first world title as a black belt.

ADCC 2022

Going into ADCC 2022, Galvao was one of the favorites to win it all in the 77 kg division. At first, it looked like Mica was going to run away with the division.

In the opening rounds, he would beat standout grapplers Oliver Taza, Renato Canuto, and Dante Leon. Setting him up for a showdown with rival Kade Ruotolo.

It would be Kade that would get the better of Mica in the finals to secure a heel hook. Forcing Mica to submit for the first time in his career. Forcing Galvao to settle for second place at that year’s tournament.

The Manaus Boys

Mica Galvao is part of a young group of standout grapplers from Fight Sports. They are known as the Manaus boys since the three all hail from the city of Manaus in Amazonas.

Along with Galvao, the group consists of Diogo “Baby Shark” Reis and Fabricio “Hokage” Andrey. Three young black belts under the age of 25 that have all won world championships.

You can expect to see all three young grapplers win numerous titles in the coming years.

Mica Galvao’s Grappling Style

Mica Galvao has one of the most complete games of any Jiu Jitsu athlete. He has been training since he was 4 and has worked on every single facet of grappling.

Galvao is as good at attacking in top position as he is off his back in guard. Then along with his abilities on the ground, he’s just as good getting his opponents to the ground with throws and takedowns.

There isn’t much that Mica isn’t good at in grappling and he’s only going to get better as time goes on. 

What’s The Future For Mica Galvao?

The future for Mica Galvao is anything the young man sets his mind to. He already possesses the skill of a grappler twice his age but has yet to peak as an athlete.

It isn’t a matter of Galvao winning another championship, but rather how many he’ll win before he finishes his career. Mica is no doubt a star and he’s only going to get better as time goes on.