After two years spent away from Jiu-Jitsu, Braulio Estima once again wore the kimono and participated in the Copa Podio on Sunday, May the 5th, where he faced Xande Ribeiro, in the Cities Challenge. Lacking pace and speed, the fighter was defeated, but he assured that he will return to top form.

Focused on this year’s ADCC, the athlete, in an interview in Portuguese with tatame, said that he hasn’t yet regained the confidence in his game and believes that it showed in the fight against Xande. He will face Rodolfo Vieira in June at Metamoris and Andre Galvao in ADCC in two high level superfights.

What went wrong in your match?

I didn’t have my competition rythm, since I haven’t competed in the Gi since 2011. The fight against Xande was complicated. I got tired in the middle of the fight, but it is the beginning and the first step of my return. I hesitated in some situation where I usually don’t hesitated and paid for that against Xande. I’ll be on top again, as I’m dedicating myself to Jiu-Jitsu championships.

Xande said he was surprised to be attacked in berimbolo …

I’m always trying to update my Jiu-Jitsu, trying to improve, but there is still a bit to go to get into the rhythm. I think I’m on track to get back to my old level.

You had some MMA fights and seemed focused on that. What are the plans?

I’m taking a break from MMA. I Don’t want to get away so as not to get out of rhythm. This year I have supermatches, one with Rodolfo and then with Andre Galvao in October at ADCC. So my focus is on these two fights and to continue going forward. This year I will focus on Jiu-Jitsu in 2014 and let’s see what are the proposals of MMA.

Do you plan to focus on MMA and drop Jiu-Jitsu?

No way, I live from Jiu-Jitsu today and I do not want to give it up for a uncertain business. In MMA, I’ve had fights that were canceled and it left me disappointed. Now I’m focusing on what is going right.

You were thrilled at the time of the National Anthem at Copa Podio. How is it for you to fight in your country?

I really miss Brazil. i’ve lived abroad for the last 12 years. Fighting in Brazil is out of the ordinary, the warmth of the fans, you do not have that anywhere. Unfortunately my fight did not go the way I wanted, but I’ll live and learn.