Search Results

Can These Americans Win Medals At Worlds?

May 23, 2018

7 Major Storylines At The 2018 IBJJF World Championship

May 22, 2018

Before Coaching MMA, Ricardo Liborio Was A Jiu-Jitsu World Champion

Long before ever being recognized as one of the world’s greatest MMA coaches, Ricardo Liborio was a world jiu-jitsu champion. He was regarded as one of– if not the– best competitors from the world-famous Carlson Gracie team. Carlson’s team was primarily known for their hard-nosed top game, which was definitely something embedded into Liborio’s style. However, as well as having great takedowns and passing, Liborio’s closed guard was legendary. At the first ever World Jiu-Jitsu Championship in 1996 at the legendary Tijuca Tennis Clube, Liborio entered both the super-heavy and absolute divisions. Giving up more than 40 lbs, Liborio battled with the likes of Leo Castelo Branco, Marcelo Figueiredo and even Dutch grappler and UFC veteran Remco Pardoel. The rumor is he did so to avenge a loss with Castelo, who he would meet up with in the finals and eventually defeat for the title. Liborio also closed out the absolute with team mate Amaury Bitetti and would later retire from the sport to focus on MMA competition and coaching, where his legacy and knowledge would be passed on and respected for years to come.

Apr 20, 2018