Augusto Mendes "Tanquinho"

The Little Tank of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Name: Augusto Mendes "Tanquinho"

Current Rank: Black Belt under Master Francisco Mansur

Notable Achievements:

1st Place ADCC World Championship (2019)
1st Place IBJJF World Championship (2013)
1st Place IBJJF World Championship NoGi (2012, 2015)
1st Place UAEJJF Abu Dhabi World Pro (2011, 2013)
1st Place CBJJ/IBJJF South American Championship (2010)

Lineage: Mitsuyo Maeda --> Carlos Gracie --> Helio Gracie --> Francisco Mansur --> Augusto Mendes

Aside from his grappling achievements, Tanquinho also ventured into MMA, reaching the UFC in 2016. He is also one of the most recognized referees in jiu-jitsu and a co-founder of the Soul Fighters Academy.

Augusto "Tanquinho" Mendes Biography

The Genesis of a Fighter

Born on March 3, 1983, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Augusto "Tanquinho" Mendes was destined for greatness in the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). His journey began in 1997 when his older brother, Bruno, encouraged him to join him in training at Kioto Gym in Tijuca, Rio de Janeiro. The nickname "Tanquinho" translates to "little tank," a moniker he earned for his relentless style that saw him "going through" everyone in training.

The Early Years: A Passion Ignited

Just four months into his training, Tanquinho entered the Rio State Championships and clinched a bronze medal. This early success ignited his passion for competition, and by the age of 14, he was living and breathing jiu-jitsu, training three times a day. His dedication was so intense that he invested every penny he earned from teaching classes into a degree in physical education at the University Estacio de Sá.

The Competitive Arena: A Rising Star

Tanquinho's competitive spirit led him to numerous victories, including an IBJJF World Championship in 2013 and an ADCC World Championship in 2019. His grappling style is characterized by pressure passing, a technique he has mastered over the years. He has also won the IBJJF World Championship NoGi twice, in 2012 and 2015, and the UAEJJF Abu Dhabi World Pro in 2011 and 2013.

The Soul Fighters Era: Building a Legacy

In 2008, Tanquinho, along with his brother Bruno and friends Rafael "Formiga" Barbosa and Leandro "Tatu" Escobar, founded the Soul Fighters Academy. The academy quickly grew into an international team with over 1,000 students and more than 20 affiliate schools worldwide.

The MMA Chapter: A Versatile Athlete

Not one to limit himself to just one discipline, Tanquinho ventured into mixed martial arts (MMA) in 2014. His skills caught the eye of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), and he made his debut in the promotion in 2016.

The Man in the Middle: A Respected Referee

In addition to his fighting and coaching career, Tanquinho is also one of the most recognized referees in BJJ, certified by the CBJJ. His keen understanding of the sport's nuances makes him a respected figure not just on the mat but also beside it.

The Man Behind the Achievements

Augusto "Tanquinho" Mendes is more than just a list of titles and achievements; he's a man driven by a relentless passion for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. His journey from a young boy in Rio to a world champion and revered coach is a testament to his dedication, skill, and love for the sport.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Augusto Mendes "Tanquinho"

General Information

Q: Who is Augusto Mendes in the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ)?
A: Augusto Mendes, commonly known as "Tanquinho," is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt under Master Francisco Mansur. He is a prominent figure in the sport's featherweight division, with an IBJJF World title and an ADCC bronze medal to his name. He is also a co-founder of the Soul Fighters Academy and has ventured into mixed martial arts (MMA), reaching the UFC in 2016.

BJJ Achievements

Q: What are some of Augusto Mendes' notable achievements in BJJ?
A: Some of his main achievements include:

1st Place ADCC World Championship (2019)
1st Place IBJJF World Championship (2013)
1st Place IBJJF World Championship NoGi (2012/2015)
1st Place UAEJJF Abu Dhabi World Pro (2011/2013)
3rd Place ADCC World Championship (2015)

Q: What is Augusto Mendes' favorite position or technique in BJJ?
A: His favorite position is Pressure Passing.

Training and Background

Q: How did Augusto Mendes get into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?
A: Augusto "Tanquinho" Mendes began training jiu-jitsu in 1997 after his brother Bruno encouraged him to join him. He started his jiu-jitsu career at Kioto gym in Tijuca, Rio de Janeiro, and quickly became passionate about the sport and competition.

Q: Who were some of Augusto Mendes' main instructors?
A: During his early training years, his instructors were professors Alvaro and Krauss Mansor, under the supervision of Master Francisco Mansor.

Additional Information

Q: Did Augusto Mendes ever consider transitioning to MMA?
A: Yes, aside from his accomplishments in grappling, Tanquinho also ventured into mixed martial arts (MMA), reaching the UFC in 2016.

Q: What is the meaning behind the nickname "Tanquinho"?
A: The nickname "Tanquinho" means "little tank," a name that came after Augusto started "going through" everyone in training.

Q: What is Augusto Mendes' role in the Soul Fighters Academy?
A: Augusto Mendes is a co-founder of the Soul Fighters Academy, which has grown into an international team with over 1000 students spanning over 20 affiliate schools worldwide.

Q: Is Augusto Mendes also a referee in BJJ competitions?
A: Yes, Tanquinho is a renowned Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu referee certified by the CBJJ and is one of the Federation's main referees.