Leandro Lo - The Legend
Leandro Lo Pereira do Nascimento, born on May 11, 1989, in São Paulo, Brazil, was one of the greatest exponents of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ). Throughout his career, Lo won eight IBJJF world championships as a black belt, cementing himself as one of the legends of this martial art. His tragic death, which occurred on August 7, 2022, in São Paulo, shocked the BJJ world and left a huge void in the community.
Career and sporting legacy
Leandro began his career at the renowned Projeto Social Lutando Pelo Bem (Fighting the Bem), under the tutelage of Cicero Costha, where he trained alongside figures such as the Miyao brothers. In 2015, he founded his own team, NS Brotherhood, marking a milestone as a competitor and leader. Throughout his career, Leandro stood out for his dominance in Gi competitions, achieving world titles in multiple weight classes (-76kg, -82kg, -88kg, -94kg) and winning an overall title, an achievement reserved for the most versatile and well-rounded in the sport.
Fighting style
Leandro Lo's style was a blend of intensity and technique. He had exceptional cardio, which allowed him to maintain a high pace throughout the fight. His guarding skills were exceptional, excelling in positions like the Spider Guard and De La Riva, while his ability to pass guards with moves like knee cuts and bullfights made him fearsome in any position. Although he wasn't known for being a prolific finisher, his mastery of strategic play always put him ahead of his opponents. Furthermore, his powerful double-leg throw and his ability to fight both in his weight class and at the senior level made him a complete warrior.
His influence on Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Leandro Lo was a benchmark for a generation of fighters who, without leaving Brazil, managed to make a global impact on the sport. He represented a bridge between traditional Jiu Jitsu and the modernity of competitive BJJ. His charisma, humility, and dedication to the sport endeared him to his peers and fans alike. For those who started BJJ during the 2010s, Lo was much more than a champion: he was an inspiration.
The News
On Sunday, August 7, 2022, the world of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu lost one of its greatest figures, Leandro Lo Pereira do Nascimento, who tragically passed away at the age of 33 after being shot in the head during an argument at a nightclub in São Paulo, Brazil.
Leandro Lo, recognized as one of the greatest jiu-jitsu fighters of all time, was an icon of the sport. An eight-time world champion in five different weight classes, he also won five World Cup titles and eight Pan American titles, cementing an unparalleled legacy in BJJ history.
The tragedy occurred at the exclusive Club Sirio, where Lo was enjoying a musical performance with friends. According to witnesses, the wrestler restrained a man, apparently intoxicated, using an arm lock to calm an argument. However, after being released, the attacker pulled out a gun and shot the champion in the head. Lo was taken to the hospital, but sadly, he was declared brain dead.
The Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Sports Confederation (CBJJE) expressed its condolences in a statement honoring Lo as an idol who inspired generations to wear the kimono and dedicate themselves to the martial art.
Leandro Lo leaves behind an immense legacy, not only for his exceptional technical ability and achievements in the sport, but also for his humble nature and passion for BJJ. His influence will continue to inspire BJJ practitioners around the world.
