Filipe matos
After moving to England in an attempt to return to combat sports, I decided to try a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class.
At the time, I had no idea what to expect.
I signed up for a few sessions, and before I knew it, the mat became my new home.
I became addicted and completely amazed by the efficiency of ground fighting techniques.
What's incredible about Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is that we never stop learning, and the people we train with are always evolving and improving techniques.
It's definitely not something you automatically excel at, it's something you have to consistently work on and conquer. Starting as a curious white belt, fully dedicating myself to the sport, I was constantly studying and trying to improve techniques.
My goal was always to address the flaws in my game and understand where I needed to improve.
At that time, I was encouraged by my mentor, Nas Alganga, who made me believe in Jiu-Jitsu as a lifestyle, supporting me immensely during a crucial part of my life.
This sport opened many doors for me, providing significant opportunities, from training in excellent facilities to opening the doors of my own academy – it surpassed anything I had envisioned or planned for my life.
It allowed me to repeat the process and give back to my students the knowledge I acquired over the years, teaching them everything I know and playing a crucial role not only in their athletic success but also in their development as individuals.
The year 2022 was a significant turning point for me. I had to make a difficult decision to step away from my team and everything I had built and return to my hometown.
The path forward remains uncertain; only time will reveal the next chapter.