Marcus “Buchecha” Almeida, widely regarded as one of the greatest Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitors of all time, has hinted towards a return to professional grappling.
Almeida, who boasts a record 13 IBJJF World Championship titles and two ADCC titles, dominated the heaviest weight classes from 2012 onward.In 2019, he decided to step away from the sport in order to compete in MMA.
However, in a recent interview with FloGrappling, Almeida expressed his desire to return to BJJ competition, despite his ongoing MMA career.When asked about a potential comeback, Almeida confirmed:
For sure I have [thought about returning to BJJ competition).
Right now, because of MMA, I’m a little bit out.Not for long, so I’m gonna be back really soon.
When asked further for clarification, he confidently stated:
100% (coming back).I’m too young to be retired.
While Almeida didn’t specify any particular opponents for his BJJ return, he has previously mentioned his interest in a rematch with Gordon Ryan.Ryan was the last man to defeat Almeida in the final of the absolute division at ADCC 2019, a match Ryan won on penalties.
But when will the match take place? Tough to say, as Almeida has another goal in mind for now…Winning the ONE Championship MMA title.
