Hey there! I am a long time member, but I haven't posted in awhile. This year, I started actively training and teaching martial arts again, after a few years off from personal tragedy and many other issues. But this year I was able to return, and return to form! A little over four weeks ago, I competed at a no gi BJJ tournament. I had competed at a tournament ran by the same fellas in June at the advanced division and managed to beat a couple purple belts to win. This time it would be more difficult, but I would be able to take home the victory... I competed at 185lbs, even though I weighed in at 160lbs since nobody showed up at my weight. I was in the advanced division, and figured this would be a great way to showcase my technique and the power of BJJ. Even though I am only ranked as a blue belt (though I know I am at a higher level), I was able to win the tournament. My first opponent was a BJJ brown belt, who owns his own academy. I won by triangle choke in a little over two minutes by triangle choke. Video is below. [ame="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7lEvRxZxY0Y"]Corey Kuropas vs Paul Flores @ NOGI Grappling Series - YouTube[/ame] I then had to face an experienced submission grappler and local MMA fighter. I beat him by points decision. Video is below. [ame="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J5HposlfQWg"]Corey Kuropas vs Alphy Gutierrez @ NOGI Grappling Series - YouTube[/ame] I am very proud that I was able to do so well and beat such experienced opponents. I hope ya'll enjoy the videos!
Thank you liero! I have one more Jits tournament coming up next month, then my plan is to return to the cage and fight in MMA in February.
Good mate. Retired from all this stuff after a recent kidney transplant. Though (just so I fit into this forum) my final training experience was in BJJ. How about you? Looks like things are going quite well.
God bless you! I am glad you were able to enjoy BJJ as a final experience. The art has done so much for me. Things are going well! Both in the martial arts and professional worlds.
It is good to see so many of the old posters still left! Gosh, I remember posting here as an inquisitive and dumb kid. Ya'll put up with me lol.
Loving to see all the love from my fellow (old) MAPPers. I'll keep everyone updated on how the December tourney goes. Submission only fits my style more, so I am expecting good things for it.
And I forgot to mention, but very cool to me. The one and only Jeff Glover shared my video on Facebook and complimented me on my technique. I was in awe of that considering Jeff is one of my martial arts heroes.
