My name is Chase Smith, and I'm the principal photographer and associate producer for FloGrappling. 

Being a part of of the FG team brings unique opportunities — I get to cover the biggest and best events, work directly with my heroes, and generally think about jiu-jitsu all day long, 24/7.  

But the past 12 days have been perhaps some of the most incredible I've experienced: I visited Brazil for the first time and made unforgettable memories! In this three-part series, I’ll give an overview of a true "gringo’s" experience in Rio.

Competing At The UAEJJF Rio Grand Slam

Occasionally, a tournament is organized in a way that lets a member of the FloGrappling team compete: Reid Connell, FG filmmaker extraordinaire, has gotten on that mats for the 2017 European Championships and the 2016 LA Grand Slam. At the Rio Grand Slam last week, it was my turn.

Weighed in and ready to go! 

I registered in the 69kg purple belt division. There were more than 50 competitors, and only two of us were from outside Brazil. 

I wasn't nervous watching the matches beforehand, but I won't lie — the mats were filled with absolute monsters and the talent level was exceptional. I knew I would have my hands full with whomever I faced.

My opponent turned out to be Ariel Magalhaes, a Checkmat representative from Sao Paulo and a super nice guy. We spoke about traveling, competing, and generally enjoyed each other's company while killing time waiting for our match.  

He had spent some time training in the United States and was eager to make a living doing jiu-jitsu professionally.  

He did not let on that he was about to savagely destroy me.

Ariel and I chatting at UAEJJF Rio Grand Slam. Photo: Hywel Teague 

I could give you a rundown of the entire match,  but it’s probably more enjoyable to simply watch it for yourselves. Let's just say I went through the ringer.

Chase Smith vs Ariel Magalhaes UAEJJF 2017 Rio Grand Slam

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Nice meeting you, Ariel — hopefully see you sooner than later!

The calm before the storm. Photo: Hywel Teague

Covering the Greats At the Rio Grand Slam

There’s no question the UAEJJF strives to create an epic atmosphere for competition. The mats are crisply stylized, the arena walls have full length banners and graphics, and the stadium is packed with fans and family. You really feel like your competing in something special. 

It photographed pretty nicely as well.

Hugo Marques pushes hard for the pass. Photo: Chase Smith

Some of my standout memories from the competition included witnessing Hugo Marques and Ana "Baby" Vieira absolutely dominant their divisions. The para-athlete division was also something exceptional, and I am grateful for the opportunity to cover it. (See the full write-up on the UEAJJF's para athletes) 

Ana Carolina Viera locks in the choke. Photo: Chase Smith.

Para jiu-jitsu is amazing. Photo: Chase Smith.

Coming tomorrow: Training Jiu-Jitsu In Brazil

I left the event feeling invigorated to improve and get right back on the mats... which is exactly what I did. Read about my experiences training in Brazil (including a private lesson with Caio Terra!) tomorrow.