Head Coach • Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Professor
Igor Paiva is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu 3rd-degree black belt under Professor Bruno “Tank” Mendes and one of the most accomplished athletes and instructors developed through the Soul Fighters system.
Born and raised in Rio de Janeiro, Igor grew up competing in sports before discovering Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at age 17. He began training under Bruno “Tank” Mendes and Augusto “Tanquinho” Mendes and quickly distinguished himself as both a competitor and a future instructor. By purple belt, he was already assisting with classes while competing extensively throughout Brazil and internationally.
Competition
His accomplishments throughout the colored belts include an IBJJF World Championship at blue belt, a CBJJ Brazilian National Championship at purple belt, and a Brazilian National No-Gi Championship at brown belt, along with numerous medals on the IBJJF competition circuit.
Professor Tank awarded Igor his black belt on June 14, 2017.
As a black belt, Igor continued competing at the highest level, earning podium finishes and titles at major events including the IBJJF Pan Championship, Abu Dhabi Pro, BJJ Tour, and US Open.
One of the highlights of his competitive career came in 2023 in Las Vegas, when Igor became an IBJJF Masters World Champion at black belt.
Head Coach in Allen
Igor brings the same technical precision, discipline, and competitive experience to his work as a coach. As Head Coach at Soul Fighters Allen, he plays a central role in the academy’s adult Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program, athlete development, competition training, curriculum, and the continued development of the next generation of Soul Fighters students, competitors, and instructors.
Train at Soul Fighters Allen
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