Roger Gracie rendered the entire community speechless this weekend at Gracie Pro when he submitted Buchecha without a hitch. Roger Gracie used the opportunity to announce his retirement – effectively canceling his IBJJF Grand Prix appearance.
As a reminder last year was the first IBJJF grand prix – a 50.000$ worth inaugural 8 men tournament that Buchecha had conquered without much trouble.
But now IBJJF finds themselves in a tough situation with Roger, who was arguably the biggest draw backing out.
So far invited are:
Andre Galvao, Dimitrius Souza, Ricardo Evangelista, Mahmed Aly, Joao Gabriel Rocha, Alexandre Ceconi, Leandro Lo and Buchecha.
Erberth Santos commented to Graciemag:
“Right after winning the World Cup I received many invitations to seminars. My plan was to compete the tournaments I was already enrolled in, to fulfill my schedule and focus on the European. However, after Roger Gracie retired, I received many messages, even more than before, to insert my name into it. I took the request from the public to my manager, coaches and team, and we came to the conclusion that I have the conditions to fight this GP and to be champion. I want this vacancy, I am the right person to complete the tournament. I hope the IBJJF gives me the chance to fight for this title. The fans are asking for a lot, and the voice of the people is the voice of God”
