This past month concluded the 2020 IBJJF European Championship. The “Euro’s” are always exciting and this year definitely provided some amazing moments. What many have considered one of the biggest upsets in recent years, every belt world champion Thalison Soares lost in the final to the new 2020 IBJJF Black Belt European champion Tomoyuki “Tomo” Hashimoto! I have always believed in Tomo and I knew his time for come. For me, this wasn’t an upset but more a validation of the hard work and sacrifices that made this moment possible.
In the open division Mikey lost to in the quarter final to Mahamed Aly but not before putting on an amazing display of technique and heart. In his division the next day he put on another excellent performance and was crowned the 2020 IBJJF Black Belt European champion!! This is just the beginning of Mikey’s year, and I look forward to being by his side as he continues to write his name in the history book.
For Rudson, Jeremy and all the other athletes who’s dream fell short, keep your head up, make the necessary changes and know that behind all of our successes are moments like these!
Next up San Jose Open and then Pans!
Pic by: Maggie Left
