Rerisson Gabriel’s path to becoming a UFC BJJ coach didn’t begin with world-class facilities or financial backing…
Instead, it began with melted popsicles and hand-me-down gis.
Growing up in Rio de Janeiro’s Cantagalo favela, Gabriel’s biggest challenges weren’t on the mats, but in everyday survival.
In a post-victory interview after winning the 2025 IBJJF Pan American Championship, Gabriel opened up about the grind it took to get there – one that started with selling treats to beachgoers.
Here is what he had to say about the experience:
I would sell popsicles.
When it was really hot, I’d go to the beach.When the weather was nice, I’d sell them in the park.
Gabriel’s dedication to making it in Jiu-Jitsu extended far beyond training hours, too.
He juggled coaching judo on weekdays and working alongside his father and brother on weekends to scrape together enough money for competition trips.
At one point, he had to borrow an oversized gi just to step onto the mats at the IBJJF Pans.
Now, things are looking better for the Brazilian national:
What we go through in the past is just a phase.
Keep working, keep dedicating yourself. One day it’ll work out.A while ago I was selling popsicles on the beach.
Today I’m a Pan American champion with the possibility to change my life – and my family’s.
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