Training Hard in Rio; Jackson Sousa Wants To Make 2016 His Year

Checkmat's elite heavyweight grappler Jackson Sousa has big plans for 2016 and it all starts this week with the 2016 IBJJF European Championships.

"I’m training everyday, I’m doing physical therapy in Ipanema everyday as well. When I have time I stop by Fight Zone to do some drills and technique with my teammates. I’m getting ready. This year I want to do a good job. I don’t want to teach anymore I just want to train and compete this year."

Of course Jackson Sousa had a rough end to his 2015 losing via heelhook at the Berkut Invitational last November. But Sousa reasures he's ready to go.

"I just stopped training for about two to three weeks to take care of my knee and after that I started training again. I feel good my knee is better, I feel very comfortable now, I can move I can do a lot of stuff. I’m so blessed."

"I feel blessed to have my teammates here. They always push me to my limit. Always when I come from Europe and stop here they fill me with great energy, great vibe, everyday. I just keep my focus on training and try to help my friends. I share my jiu-jitsu experiences on the mats, and not just in BJJ but also my experience in Europe."

"I’m gonna fight heavyweight again, but I plan to move up for the World Championships. I don’t know yet but I’m applying for my change. Let’s see whats going on at European Championships first."

Jackson Sousa will fight at the 2016 IBJJF European Championships in the black belt division on Jan. 23rd, watch it here on FloGrappling.