Today we’d like to introduce you to Wander Braga.
Hi Wander, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Start training Brazilian jiu-jitsu at age of 12yrs old in Rio de Janeiro / Brazil. Begin my MMA journey when I was 18hs, and after a successful straight 12 fights and No loss, I was invited to go to America to open an academy in California.
After 11 yrs. in California and have had open 2 BJJ schools. I received I offer to fight in UFC. Which never happened due to a Visa situation and got held in Rio de Janeiro.
After 13 long years and following my dream of a new Wander Braga Brazilian jiu-jitsu, got a Green Card and received a proposal to open an academy in North Caroline.
I am here now, starting my new journey, with new students almost every day on this beautiful city by Lake Norman.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
No, like I said. Got some issues with my Green card, and I was held in Brazil, lost my academies in California, and had to short sale my house being away from my students and family in America
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am Brazilian jiu-jitsu coach, and the way I like to teach martial arts is deeply rooted in philosophy, tradition, and culture. It teaches not only self-defense but also discipline, focus, and respect…
I am very proud to be very persistent, hardworking, and passionate about what I do, and of course, all tournaments that I had fight and students that make part of my journey.
What sets me apart from others is my charisma and also the passion/Love I show to my students.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
What makes me happier is being inside the Tatame of my own gym and seeing how happy my students are with the training…
Because it gives me the feeling of accomplishment, and there is nothing more motivating than making a student or parents happy
Contact Info:
- Website: www.wanderbragabjj.com
- Instagram: @wanderbraga_bjj
- Facebook: Wander Braga Bjj
- Linkedin: Wander Braga
- Twitter: @WBragabjj
- Youtube: @Bragajiujitsu
- Other: @wanderbraga_
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Wander Braga
May 30, 2023 at 2:46 pm
Thanks VoyageRaleigh for the awesome interview and opportunity to talk a little be about myself .
Jay Crocker
May 30, 2023 at 4:03 pm
Wander Braga’s Academy is a treasure, not just for Cornelius, NC, but for this great state and country. To have someone teach the fundamental roots of BJJ like Professor Wander does, as it is intended, is irreplaceable. His academy teaches focus, discipline, the value of consistency, and the importance of moral character. He’s knowledge of the martial art is invaluable, but more importantly his emphasis on family values, integrity, perseverance and continual growth, are what makes his academy stand out amongst the many.
James Long
May 30, 2023 at 6:21 pm
One of the best things that has happened to me was starting at Wander BJJ. Great teaching. Great people.
Mary E Schockling
May 30, 2023 at 6:31 pm
Wander Braga is a fantastic coach, but an even better person. He deeply cares about his students and dedicates his time every day to us. I’m incredibly grateful for him and this academy!