Samir started his Jiu-Jitsu journey at the age of nine in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
He received his black belt in June of 2009 from Alan Moraes of Carlson Gracie Team but now trains at the Institute of Martial Arts in San Jose, CA. When he competes, which is often, he represents the Caio Terra Association.
In 2010 Samir won the World No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu Championship winning his first black belt world title. Later, he won the 2012 and 2013 Pan Jiu-Jitsu No-Gi Championship as well. An eight-time American Nationals champion, Samir can be found on the mats whether competing or working as a referee.
Samir competes in the light-featherweight and featherweight categories but has won the open division at the Las Vegas Open in 2012 proving that technique can overcome strength.
Last year Samir competed in the BJJ Pro League and received the bronze medal. This year he will be in the four-man category of rooster/light-feather/feather and hopes to take home the gold.
Check out this quick submission by Samir at the 2012 World Championship:
Learn more about the 2013 BJJ Pro League on Dec. 8 at the Long Beach Walter Pyramid at www.bjjproleague.com