Marcel Goncalves is the first student of Roberto “Cyborg” Abreu and is a decorated competitor. He tells his powerful life story and how Jiu-Jitsu helped him endure very hard times. He also talks about embracing challenges and the value of positive mindset. Click “read more” for show notes 

SHOW NOTES:

• Origins / Mata Grosso Do Sul
• Cultural differences between Brazil and the US
• The difficult times Jiu-Jitsu got him through
• Embracing challenges and positive mindset
• Jiu-Jitsu’s therapeutic applications
• Becoming Cyborg’s first student
• How he ended up in the US
• Fighting for Bellator
• Balancing MMA and BJJ
• Grappling Pro Championship
• How not getting paid at Metamoris inspired him to start his own tournament
• Tournament rules
• Cyborg vs Tom Deblass