Rodolfo promoted at airport / Photo: personal archive
After tapping out stalwart competitors the likes of Bráulio Estima at the 2009 World Pro to be crowned champion while still a brown belt, Rodolfo Vieira had the surprise of his life upon returning home from Abu Dhabi. As he disembarked at Galeão airport in Rio de Janeiro he was awarded his black belt from the hands of Master Julio Cesar. Some time later, Rodolfo would win his weight and the open weight groups at the Jiu-Jitsu World Championship and etch his name in history along with the other great gentle art champions.
Unprecedented to receive a belt at the airport? Well, Jiu-Jitsu’s loaded with such stories. There are those promoted on the podium after a great conquest, at a restaurant or even in the hospital. So, there are plenty of intriguing stories surrounding the world of the gentle art.
What about you, dear reader, did you get your belt in some unlikely way? Got a surprising, fun or even heroic story behind your belt?
If so, share it with us in the comments section below. We’re curious!
