Besides being a talented Jiu Jitsu fighter, Rafael Lovato Jr is also an avid competitor. Since he started competing at 16 years old, when he won the 2000 Pan-American Championships in the Juvenile Blue Belt division, Lovato Jr. kept accumulating deeds in his BJJ career.
In August of 2004, shortly after turning 21, Rafael became the youngest ever known American to receive a black belt. In 2007, Rafael earned the award of BJJ competitor of the year for being the first person ever to win the European Open, Pan-American, Brazilian National and World Championship at the black belt all in the same year.
Rafael just signed up for the 2014 Worlds, which takes place next weekend, starting May 28th, in Long Beach, California. On Instagram, he posted a picture of his registration to this tournament and said: ” It’s on! My 15th World Championship and 9th as a black belt! Can’t wait!”
In this video, listen to the voice of experience as Rafael Lovato Jr. teaches a step over triangle from side control.
Check it out!
