Salzburg fighter Fernanda Ribeiro wins two Jiu-Jitsu world titles

Fernanda Ribeiro has won two Jiu-Jitsu world titles, taking the 25-year-old from Seeham in the Flachgau region to the top of the sport, according to ORF.

At the world championships in Croatia at the end of August, Ribeiro won both the No-Gi and Gi divisions. No-Gi competitions are fought without the traditional Jiu-Jitsu uniform, while Gi events use it.

Ribeiro trains every day at Groundfighter, a Jiu-Jitsu club in Bergheim in the Flachgau region. Her international successes have made her the club’s leading figure.

Jiu-Jitsu is often described as “chess on the mat”, combining throws and holds with tactics, technique and rapid decisions. Strength is not the only factor; the right movements at the right moment are crucial. The martial art originated in self-defence and includes using an opponent’s strength and movement to one’s own advantage.

Ribeiro, who has Brazilian roots, sees the world titles as only a first step. She plans to remain among the leading competitors and win more titles, while hoping her success will inspire Groundfighter athletes to compete at the front of future international tournaments.