Becoming King – The Marcus “Buchecha” Almeida Highlight

Discovering his love for harvesting ankles didn’t come right away for Buchecha. The “cheeky” kid from Sao Vicente was introduced to the sport after his father had been taking his sister (and eventually training himself) to learn the gentle art. Discovered by Checkmat leg hunter extraordinaire Rodrigo Cavaca, Buchecha became schooled in the tactical art of putting opponents on crutches.

Having blazed through the tournament circuit, it was only a matter of time before the Checkmat and one-time Avenger ace put himself on the Jiu Jitsu world’s radar as a serious threat. After receiving his black belt in 2010 on the podium of the Mundials, Buchecha set his goals high. It only took until later that year when he earned World No Gi gold at weight and absolute, but the coveted Gi gold still would have to wait. In 2011 Rodolfo steamrolled through the competition, setting the stage for 2012 and one of the most impressive matches and performances of a black belt to date as Buchecha claimed double gold.

So sit back (but not with your leg wrapped up in a Checkmat death grip) and enjoy the pawn who cleared the board and became king.

The instant classic – 2012 Mundials versus Rodolfo Vieira