Tanquinho competing again at the Las Vegas Open. Photo: IBJJF
The great champion of the Las Vegas International Open, held last Saturday, was Samir Chantre, who won the featherweight division and the absolute black belt title.
World champion Caio Terra was also present, showing the techniques taught in GRACIEMAG’S last edition, the dossier of the hip.
The big news of the event, however, was the return of one of the greatest competitors today.
Augusto “Tanquinho” Mendes competed in an event after almost a year away from competition.
During this period, the 2011 Worlds featherweight runner-up recovered from a delicate surgery in the cervical spine to heal an injury that threatened to end his career.
Happy with the return and the gold in the lightweight division, Tanquinho thanked: “Thanks to everyone who believed in me! I went back to doing what I love most in life! “
In the teams competition, Gracie Barra came first, Nova Uniao followed and Drysdale BJJ completed the podium.
The event brought together over 600 athletes at the Sport Center of Las Vegas.
Check out the full results at IBJJF.org.
