Emmanuela Oliveira 
Pushed by a sequence of victories since last year, Cássio Silva, School of Champs’ leader, has yet another big challenge in sight: a confirmed fight at ADXC 4, in Paris, France, a country he now considers a home. Having already managed to win gold on French soil this year, Cássio was the IBJJF Euros champion in the “city of lights”, the master competitor has just won another gold medal, this time in Rome, in the AJP Tour Grand Slam.
“There is no time to rest, we already have two commitments scheduled for May, Grand Slam in Abu Dhabi and ADXC in Paris, at home. This year I’m focused on AJP, precisely to have opportunities for super fights at ADXC. Now, I got my first chance. I want to perform well and show my work to more people who don’t know me yet.”, he anticipated, leaving the mystery reserved for his opponent in the event, still unrevealed.
This season, Cássio took his Jiu-Jitsu to another continent, in Asia, getting more points in the rankings in Tokyo by becoming champion in the AJP Grand Slam. Being able to take the top spot on the podium in the Grand Slam tournaments is a goal that fits as a priority in the black-belt’s plans.
“What I noticed about the winners of the previous rankings was that they won all the Grand Slams. So, I’m moving forward with that goal. For now, I think I’m the only one to win two in a row this year. I know there’s still a lot going on, but I’m following my plan.”, he told the VF Comunica team after the title earned in Rome.
Cássio Silva always surprises with his technique, the results confirm
With so many flawless performances, it is natural that curiosity arises about how the athlete puts technical knowledge into practice. According to Cássio, the method that works for him is “doing what needs to be done within limitations, intelligent training and a prepared mind”. At the Grand Slam in Rome, Cássio faced new opponents. On his way to gold, he achieved victories by submission and points, with a good advantage. In a prominent position, Cássio is not afraid of having his game analyzed by his opponents. In fact, he even encourages this practice.
“I post my fights and my training precisely so that people can study, but it is very complicated to study someone who dominates several areas. I’m a guard passer, but I’m also a guard player. In my belt, no one passed my guard. I’m dangerous in arm attacks and if they leave the leg, it’s the end. It’s complicated to anticipate the connection of all this, but the results speak for themselves,” he stated.
