Felipe Pena

From "Lazy" to Legend

Name: Felipe Pena (also known as Felipe "Preguiça")

Current Rank: Black Belt under Marcelo Azevedo

Notable Achievements:

1st Place ADCC World Championship (2017)
1st Place IBJJF World Championship (2014, 2018, 2019, 2021)
1st Place IBJJF World Championship NOGI (2015)
1st Place IBJJF European Open (2016)
1st Place BJJ Stars Heavyweight GP (2021)
1st Place AJP Abu Dhabi World Pro (2015, 2016, 2017, 2018)

Lineage: Carlos Gracie > Helio Gracie > Carlos Gracie Jr > Vinicius Magalhães > Marcelo Azevedo > Felipe Pena

Felipe Pena was once nicknamed "Preguiça" (lazy or sloth) because he was overweight and slow when he started jiu-jitsu. The nickname ended up motivating him to train harder, and he is now considered one of the top competitors of his generation.

Felipe Pena Biography

Felipe Pena, also known as "Preguiça" (which means "lazy" or "sloth" in Portuguese), is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt under Marcelo Azevedo. He represents the Gracie Barra – Belo Horizonte academy and is widely considered one of the top competitors of his generation. With numerous titles in prestigious events like the ADCC World Championship and the IBJJF World Championship, Felipe Pena has left an indelible mark on the sport.

Early Life

Born on October 19, 1991, in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, Felipe was influenced by his older brother Augusto Vieira Carsalade to start training jiu-jitsu at the age of 14. His initial nickname "Preguiça" was given by Vinicius "Draculino" because Felipe was overweight and considered lazy. However, this nickname became a source of motivation for him.

Formative Years in Jiu-Jitsu

Felipe trained at Gracie Barra Belo Horizonte's kids program and later transitioned to the adult team under Marcelo "Uirapuru" and Sérgio Benini. The academy's competition-focused environment fueled Felipe's desire to excel. He began to make a name for himself at the purple and brown belt levels, winning important tournaments and even traveling to the United States to train with Romulo Barral at Gracie Barra Northridge in California.

Ascension to Prominence

Felipe Pena received his black belt at the end of 2012 from Vinícius "Draculino" and Marcelo Azevedo. Despite a one-year suspension in 2015 for a failed banned substances test, Felipe returned stronger than ever. He won titles in the European Open, Abu Dhabi Pro, and other major tournaments, earning him the #1 spot as BJJ's top earner in 2016 according to an assessment by BJJ Heroes.

Notable Achievements

1st Place ADCC World Championship (2017)
1st Place IBJJF World Championship (2014, 2018, 2019, 2021)
1st Place IBJJF World Championship NOGI (2015)
1st Place BJJ Stars Heavyweight GP (2021)
1st Place AJP Abu Dhabi World Pro (multiple years)

Techniques and Style

Felipe Pena is known for his mastery of the open guard and back attacks. He competes in the Meio Pesado weight division (88kg/194lbs).

Legacy

Felipe Pena's journey from a "lazy" teenager to a jiu-jitsu legend serves as an inspiration to many. His technical prowess, dedication, and resilience have made him one of the most celebrated athletes in the sport today.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Felipe Pena

General Information

Q: Who is Felipe Pena?

A: Felipe Pena, also known as "Preguiça," is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and a highly accomplished competitor. He represents Gracie Barra and has won numerous titles in BJJ competitions.

Career and Achievements

Q: What are some of Felipe Pena's notable achievements in BJJ?

A: Felipe Pena has won multiple IBJJF World Championships, European Championships, and has also been successful in ADCC competitions.

Felipe Pena vs. Gordon Ryan Rivalry

Q: How many times have Felipe Pena and Gordon Ryan faced each other?

A: Felipe Pena and Gordon Ryan have had multiple encounters, creating one of the most talked-about rivalries in the BJJ community.

Q: Who won the first match between Felipe Pena and Gordon Ryan?

A: Felipe Pena won the first match against Gordon Ryan in 2016.

Q: Is there going to be a third match between Felipe Pena and Gordon Ryan?

A: As of now, there are discussions and anticipation about a third match between Felipe Pena and Gordon Ryan, but nothing has been officially confirmed.

Q: Where can I watch Felipe Pena vs. Gordon Ryan matches?

A: Previous matches have been available on platforms like FloGrappling. Keep an eye on their schedule for any upcoming matches.

Q: What are the betting odds for Gordon Ryan vs. Felipe Pena?

A: Betting odds can vary and are usually released closer to the date of the match. It's best to check sports betting websites for the most current odds.

Training and Style

Q: Where does Felipe Pena train?

A: Felipe Pena trains at Gracie Barra, one of the most prestigious BJJ academies in the world.

Q: What is Felipe Pena known for in terms of techniques?

A: Felipe Pena is known for his well-rounded game, including strong guard passing, submissions, and a versatile guard.

Miscellaneous

Q: How can I learn from Felipe Pena?

A: Felipe Pena often conducts seminars and has released instructional content, allowing students to learn his techniques.

Q: Has Felipe Pena ever submitted Gordon Ryan?

A: Yes, Felipe Pena has submitted Gordon Ryan in one of their previous encounters.

Q: What other notable competitors has Felipe Pena faced?

A: Apart from Gordon Ryan, Felipe Pena has faced other high-level competitors like Vagner Rocha and has had a successful career with numerous victories.