CHICO MENDES
THE UNSPOKEN HERO OF CHECKMAT
WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP 2017
At JJWorld League we try to help our athletes capture their special moments as they progress along their jiu-jitsu journey. Whether it is with our photographs published after each event, or the videos taken and published on our social media, we try to include everyone. Experience and belt level are not all that matters when creating engaging content, however, everyone involved in the sport enjoys reading about accomplished black belts. In this article we take a look into the life and experience of one of the most active black belt competitors among the international community. Francisco Ramos Mendes Neto also known as "Chico Mendes" broke onto the black belt scene in 2004 after receiving his promotion from the world-renowned Leonardo Vieira. We were lucky enough to get an interview with Chico and ask him some questions about jiu-jitsu and it's influence on his life. Read below to find out more.
JJWorldLeague
Who were your biggest influences when you first started jiu-jitsu? Did you have a chance to meet them?
Chico Mendes
One of my best friends started jiu-jitsu and kicked my arse at school playing on our lunch break. So I decided to do the same, that way he couldn't beat me up.(Laughter) At this time I didn't have any real influences. But my first session was with a new purple belt named Leo Vieira. Since that day I have followed him, he is for sure the biggest influence in my life.
JJWorldleague
Was there any point in your career where you thought about quitting jiu-jitsu?
Chico Mendes
There were many times where I thought about giving up, but I never did. It's a very difficult life, but every time I have a problem I just look back and check all of the good things I have done with my life; the great results I have achieved through competing and teaching! I am very competitive it is not in my nature to give up.
JJWorldleague
Other than receiving your black belt, what has been your favorite accomplishment or most memorable experience with jiu-jitsu?
Chico Mendes
My best competition accomplishment is for sure to be a world champion (JJWL and IBJJF 2016). The most memorable experience is helping people in life, changing people's lives is the peak of success. Nothing beats when people say we (professors) are responsible for all the best changes in our students lives. We teach much more than a sport, we teach confidence, motivation, determination and give inspiration to our students.
JJWorldleague
What are your goals for the next year in jiu-jitsu?
Chico Mendes
My biggest goal in 2017 is to get my green card sorted and move to the United States. I also plan to maintain my world titles. In 2018 I want to have a huge new academy in U.S. and provide a better life for all of my students.
JJWorldleague
Do you think jiu-jitsu is a good sport for young children?
Chico Mendes
Jiu-Jitsu is great for kids. I started when I was 13years old. This allowed me to grow up with very good people and in a very healthy atmosphere.
JJWorldleague
Did jiu-jitsu help shape your life and personality for the better? Where do you think you would be without jiu-jitsu?
Chico Mendes
I can't imagine my life without jiu-jitsu. It is one thing I don't even like to talk about. Jiu-Jitsu gave me everything in my life. #thankyoubjj
JJWorldleague
What do you think the future holds for jiu-jitsu as a sport?
Chico Mendes
Jiu-Jitsu is forever. I hope people realize who is fake and who is real. A lot of people are selling belts and fake knowledge. It's sad, but we also have a lot of people working very hard like JJWL to put our sport on another level.
