Brazilian Top Team protégé José Delano was hired by the UFC (Photo: Disclosure)
Brazilian Top Team (BTT), one of the most traditional and respected teams in the world, is experiencing a period of renewal. Founded in 2000, BTT was a pioneering team in MMA, being the first to win two belts in the world's two biggest events, UFC and Pride. After experiencing its peak during this period, the team led by Murilo Bustamante underwent a period of change, shifting its focus more towards Jiu-Jitsu.
However, over the past seven years, the team began a process of restructuring, culminating in the UFC's hiring of José Delano. The renowned academy changed direction in 2016, focusing on aspiring athletes through a social project that prioritizes developing citizens with values, not just champions. That same year, Murilo retired as a coach and chose Jiu-Jitsu black belt Vitor Pimenta, a former professional MMA fighter with the team, as his replacement at BTT Lagoa.
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According to Vítor Pimenta, the headquarters in Rio de Janeiro focused more on Jiu-Jitsu for a long time, while affiliates abroad, such as the one in Canada, led by professor Fábio Holanda, maintained their focus on MMA, including athletes like Charles Jourdan playing in the UFC.
"That's when Murilo, Giovanni Tonzano, and the older guys at the academy came together and created this new project that gave the team a boost, welcoming young athletes, many without experience, and starting a great journey," explains Pimenta.
The rebuilding of the BTT Lagoa MMA team involved profound strategic and philosophical changes. "We want to develop upstanding citizens who can make a living from the sport, whether fighting or teaching. Becoming a champion is a consequence of a solid foundation and the values we instill. Our environment is relaxed, family-like, without vanity or conflict. We have a motto: together we are strong!" says the coach.
A new phase for Brazilian Top Team
The team maintains no financial contracts with its athletes, prioritizing commitment to the team over profit. Partnerships like the one with Tyr Energia and the support of sponsors also ensure the project's sustainability. José Delano's arrival at the UFC is the greatest proof of the success of this new venture.
"This achievement confirms that we're on the right track. Delano is versatile, with a solid game, undefeated for seven years, a Shooto champion, and winner of six fights in the LFA. He's serious, hard-working, honest, and cares about the other team members. Today, he's become a role model for the others," Pimenta emphasizes.
Brazilian Top Team maintains the lessons learned from its past heyday to evolve in this new phase. "We learn from our mistakes and successes. MMA has evolved a lot, and we continue to evolve constantly. The mental aspect is crucial, which is why we prioritize a healthy and motivating environment," explains the coach.
The future of BTT Lagoa is full of challenges and opportunities. Athletes like Wanderson Barcellos, Ricardo Tigrão, Marcos Vuvuzela, and André Borges already have fights scheduled in national events, while José Delano awaits a possible spot at UFC Rio.
"The academy's doors are open to new athletes, as long as they align with our values. Our dream is to expand our social project, increasingly help in the development of athletes, and once again regain our leading role in global MMA," concludes Pimenta.
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