Veteran IBJJF Brazilian and Pan champion Joao Gabriel Rocha and his longtime mentors are branching out. Rocha hit social media earlier today, sharing a “departure statement” signed by himself and coaches Rafael Barbosa and Leandro Escobar which announces the trio’s exit from Soul Fighters.
Founded in 2008, Soul Fighters was created by Augusto Mendes, Bruno Mendes, and Alvaro Mansur in addition to Barbosa and Escobar.
The new venture is titled Double Five Jiu-Jitsu:
Barbosa, better known as Formiga, is a masters world champion and Brazilian national champion. Escobar, aka Tatu, is a two-time Pan American and multi Rio de Janeiro state champion. The pair devoted themselves to the development of Soul Fighters and its now international brand after splitting from Brazilian Top Team in the early 2000s.
Rocha’s won the UAEJJF World Pro championship back in April, an inspiring victory following a five year battle with cancer.
Double Five is now accepting pre-registration for students. They are based out of Highland Village, Texas.
