Beatriz Mesquita (or “Bia,” as she’s commonly known) was one of the favorites to win at this year’s UAEJJF World Pro. Her extensive list of accomplishments includes multiple IBJJF World Championship titles, plus an ADCC title. Now, after a hard-fought battle with new black belt superstar Ffion Davies, Mesquita can add “World Pro Champion” to her resume as well.
Mesquita’s presence is all at once impressive and intimidating. As she moved her way up the bracket the other day, her “game face” was a frequent topic of discussion, admiration, and fear.
Off the mats, though, it becomes clear why so many see her as a role model and not just someone who’s really, really good at jiu-jitsu. She’s warm and genuine and takes the time to chat and take selfies with her fans, who greet the opportunity with the same giddiness that most people would have while meeting their favorite movie star.
Like her opponent in the finals, Mesquita is what both little girls and grown women in jiu-jitsu aspire to be like. She has achieved the celebrity status in the sport that’s normally reserved for men in the sport, and through it all, she remains both humble and confident.
We got to chat with Mesquita backstage after her big win today to see what thoughts are behind her soul-crushing stare, and she shared some words of wisdom for anyone hoping to be where she is today:
Watch Mesquita vs. Davies below:
