5x BJJ world champion Rafael Mendes has decided not compete at the year’s ADCC which will be held in Sao Paulo Brazil in August.

Mendes broke the record this year of featherweight world titles set by Royler Gracie in 1999, with his 5th win at black belt. He also won the 2009 and 2011 editions of ADCC.

Years of competition seems to be taking its toll on the Mendes brothers. Back in May, Rafa’s brother, Gui Mendes decided to retire from competition at the age of 26, stating:

 My life has changed a lot and I feel very blessed to have the option to redirect my goals, dedicating myself to do something bigger than just competing.

Rafael Mendes wrote on his Facebook page, explaining his reasons:

I’ll not be competing in the ADCC 2015 || I’ve decided it in the beginning of the year and I believe it is the right time to share it –

I dedicated myself 100% to the Worlds camp, putting my training schedule as a priority in my life, even had to put my family and academy as a second plan – because of that I was able to achieve my goal and became the best feather weight in Jiu Jitsu history.

Starting another training camp would require the same dedication and time, my wife is pregnant of our second child, Alek is only 14 months old and is discovering the world – I decided that its my priority to stay with them as much as I can now. I’m only 26 and I’m sure that I’ll win many more ADCC titles in the future, but this time with my baby and my wife is unique and will never come back if I miss it. ‪#‎familyfirst‬ ||

I’ll be competing in Japan on July 04th

 

Rafa with his son Alek: