Nicknames play a substantial function in battle sports, supplying fighters with an extra identity and contributing to their tradition. While striking-based battle sports frequently have frightening or intriguing labels, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) lacks this custom due to its concentrate on grappling methods. However, BJJ grapplers have actually handled to produce unforgettable labels that stick in the memory of fans and challengers alike.
Some of the very best BJJ labels remain in Portuguese, showing the Brazilian roots of lots of rivals. Wellington Dias, referred to as Megaton, holds the difference of being the earliest rival and the very first coral belt to take part in the IBJJF World Championship. His label stemmed from his sensational Judo tosses, which were compared to the power of a megaton bomb.
Rousimar Palhares, likewise referred to as Toquinho or Little Tree Stump, got popularity for his rejection to launch submissions even after his challengers tapped out. Palhares was a terrifying grappler who had a stocky develop that made takedowns nearly difficult, making him his special label.
Marcus Almeida, referred to as Buchecha, is thought about among the very best grapplers worldwide and holds the record for the most IBJJF World Championship gold medals. His label, Buchecha, which suggests huge or chubby cheeks, was provided to him by his coach due to his youth overweightness.
Jeff Glover, nicknamed The Pipelayer, was a popular grappler in the United States understood for his ingenious design. His label, unassociated to BJJ, stemmed from his day task as a plumbing professional at the time.
Dan Strauss, referred to as The Raspberry Ape, played an essential function in the advancement of competitive BJJ in the UK. His label is a mix of his household’s raspberry-picking history and a forefather’s label.
Geo Martinez, referred to as Freakazoid, is among the most effective grapplers from 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu. His label precedes his BJJ profession and originates from his love for the television program Freakazoid throughout his youth.
Fabricio Andrey, nicknamed Hokage, becomes part of a brand-new generation of elite grapplers who emerged in 2020. Hokage is stemmed from the popular manga and anime series Naruto, where it is a title provided to the leader of a particular town.
Augusto Mendes, referred to as Tanquinho or Little Tank, ended up being an IBJJF world champ in both gi and no-gi competitors prior to transitioning to MMA. His label is a recommendation to his older bro’s label, Tank, and shows their training journey together.
Kron Gracie, nicknamed Ice Cream Kron, was an appealing BJJ skill who won the ADCC world champion in 2013. His label emerged from his calm and cold attitude throughout competitors.
Mikey Musumeci, referred to as Darth Rigatoni, made his label late in his profession. It was provided to him by a fan at one of his superfights and integrates a Star Wars referral with an homage to his Italian origins and love for pasta.
Haisam Rida, nicknamed Giraffe, got attention in the BJJ world when he sent Roberto “Cyborg” Abreu at ADCC 2022. His high and slender frame made him the unforgettable label, which he accepted through giraffe-themed garments and hairdo options.
Jeff Monson, referred to as The Snowman, was a wrestler turned MMA fighter who likewise contended in BJJ. He made his label at ADCC 1999 when Brazilian rivals described his skin color and the method he developed momentum, like a snowball rolling downhill.
Felipe Pena, referred to as Preguica or Sloth, has actually been a leading rival in his weight class for several years, winning both ADCC and IBJJF world champions. His coach offered him the label as a joking insult, referencing his viewed laziness and sluggishness when he was obese.
Rubens Charles, referred to as Cobrinha or Little Snake, is thought about among the best grapplers in lighter weight classes. His label stemmed from his previous participation in Capoeira, a Brazilian martial art.
Overall, these BJJ labels display the imagination and uniqueness of the fighters, even in a sport that does not have the striking-based intimidation aspect. These unforgettable labels add to the tradition of each rival and are permanently connected with their professions worldwide of BJJ.
