Struggle First, Succeed Later: Gutemberg Pereira Promises Scrap at 2019 Pan

A series of injuries after taking silver in the absolute division at the 2018 Pans derailed Gutemberg Pereira's year. The GF Team black belt is back, and says the experience has only served to make him stronger. 

"My first year as a black belt was a little hard. But I have the faith that every man has to experience struggle first to succeed later. I think that first year was my "struggle" year. I got some injuries, I was out for a long time. 

"It was a tough year for me but I think everybody passes through tough moments, I think that was my test. This year I'm doing much better, taking care of myself more, preventing injuries and all that. I feel great. 

"Pans last year was a good moment, I took second. I think a lot of people have the bullshit that taking second... they just want gold. But that was a great experience for me. 

"I fought Leandro in the final, I had a great time, I lost, two points. But I got to feel his energy, what he's about. And I love it. So this year, it's going to be a scrap from the beginning to the end."