Never one to shy away from controversy or divisive statements, Erberth Santos announced a significant new goal for 2018. 

The IBJJF 2017 super heavyweight black belt world champion took to social media to tell his followers and fans that he currently weighs 105kg (231lb) -- a full 5.5kg (12lb) heavier than the weight class he won gold at in early June. 


​Erberth vs Bernardo Faria at the IBJJF 2017 World Championships. Photo: Michael Sears

​And that's not all: Erberth says he's aiming to hit 110kg (242lb) or higher so he can go for double gold (weight class and absolute) in 2018! 

Today weighing 105kg I know exactly where I want to get, the focus for 2018 is to enter that pyramid with 110kg ready for any situation, playing from on top or on bottom, I'm working slowly, I do not want to lose what makes me special which is my agility, so I believe that at 110kg or even 115kg I can continue with the same speed and strength, with this it will be tough to stop me, so, I send a warning to the fans: wait for me, I'm getting much heavier and I'm 100% focused to go after the weight and absolute [gold] at the 2018 Worlds!

Of course, there is one BIG obstacle in Erberth's plans, and that is Buchecha. The ultra heavyweight black belt -- who won double gold in 2012, 2013, 2014, 2016, and 2017 -- will have something to say about it!  

​Read more: Erberth Goes Savage In Sao Paulo, Switches Teams... Again

Watch Erberth vs. Buchecha from the IBJJF 2017 World Championship