Rafael Mendes
"Rafa"
Black Belt 3° Degree
Art of Jiu-Jitsu (AOJ) — Costa Mesa, California, USA
June 20, 1989
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About
Rafael "Rafa" Mendes is a 3rd degree black belt under Ramon Lemos and one of the most technically brilliant competitors in BJJ history. A six-time IBJJF World Champion and two-time ADCC Champion, Rafa pioneered the berimbolo — a dynamic back-taking technique from the de la Riva guard — that transformed modern competitive BJJ. He retired at 26 years old, undefeated in his final three seasons, to build Art of Jiu-Jitsu (AOJ) with his brother Guilherme. AOJ became one of the most respected programs in the world, producing champions including Mikey Musumeci and Tainan Dalpra.
Notable Achievements
Black Belts Promoted 2
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