IBJJF 2017 World Master Jiu-Jitsu ChampionshipAug 25, 2017 by Hywel Teague
Rafael Lovato Jr. Becomes Two-Time Masters Worlds Double Gold Champ
Rafael Lovato Jr. Becomes Two-Time Masters Worlds Double Gold Champ
Rafael Lovato Jr. became the two-time World Master Jiu-Jitsu champion today, winning both the super heavyweight and openweight divisions.
Rafael Lovato Jr. became the two-time World Master Jiu-Jitsu champion today in Las Vegas, winning both the super heavyweight and openweight divisions.
With a number of submissions, Lovato defeated notable names in the absolute including Rafael 'Formiga' Barbosa in the final and Josh Hinger in the semi. Barbosa had beaten Lovato's teammate James Puopolo on the other side of the bracket.
Lovato cruised through the super heavyweight division, and reflected on the fact this is his first gi competition since 2016.
"It was a little match by match," he said. "Then I kind of got my rhythm and I was able to submit three guys [in a row]."
Next up for Lovato Jr. is to coach his father, Rafael Lovato Sr., through the elder black belt's first tournament in many years.
Lovato Jr. will compete in September at ADCC, and announced he will return to the cage on December 1 for an MMA bout.
With a number of submissions, Lovato defeated notable names in the absolute including Rafael 'Formiga' Barbosa in the final and Josh Hinger in the semi. Barbosa had beaten Lovato's teammate James Puopolo on the other side of the bracket.
Lovato cruised through the super heavyweight division, and reflected on the fact this is his first gi competition since 2016.
"It was a little match by match," he said. "Then I kind of got my rhythm and I was able to submit three guys [in a row]."
Next up for Lovato Jr. is to coach his father, Rafael Lovato Sr., through the elder black belt's first tournament in many years.
Lovato Jr. will compete in September at ADCC, and announced he will return to the cage on December 1 for an MMA bout.
