BJJ legend Leo Castello Branco has reached yet another monumental milestone in his illustrious Jiu-Jitsu career…
By being awarded the coral belt!
Branco had spent 31 years as a black belt before his promotion in a heartfelt ceremony conducted by his mentor, Fernando Pinduka, in Rio De Janeiro.
As a young competitor, he faced off against some of the most notable figures of the 1990s, including Ricardo Liborio and Murilo Bustamante.
His competitive skills were highlighted by his podium finishes at the IBJJF World Championship in 1996 and 1999.
Transitioning from competitor to coach, Branco became instrumental in the formation of Brasa Clube de Jiu-Jitsu – significantly impacting the sport’s development and spreading its influence globally.
He shared news about the promotion via social media:
Finally, the time has come to consolidate a work of more than three decades at black belt, competing, founding great teams, organizing events and federations, forming champions inside and outside the tatamis, and where I was taught to love the art we practice and to defend it at all costs, in putting the test, even if we need to give our blood.
I am very proud to have played a part in paving this road for many who today live out Jiu-Jitsu.
And it couldn’t be anyone else to graduate me in the black belt, I made sure that it was like this, a simple ceremony but of great significance.Thank you Master Pinduka, an honor to share this moment with you among many others in the past.
It would take me a long time quoting names that were important in this walk and it would end up being unfair to someone.So thank you to everyone from the 80s from the organizers of our championships to my training friends and opponents, to teachers, the students, and everyone who is part of the big Jiu-Jitsu family today!
Thank you God!
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