Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) tournament in Malaysia |13 October 2016

Vivian Hoareau wins bronze medal

Vivian Hoareau was a bronze medallist in the no-Gi white belt 80.4-86.3kg category at the Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) tournament.

Currently completing his university degree in Malaysia, Hoareau took part in the highly anticipated Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) tournament held in the Jaya Shopping Centre in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia from October 8-9, 2016.

The tournament, which is said to be the biggest BJJ event in Malaysia, named the Copa Da Malasia 4, brought together over 250 athletes who were able to compete in both Gi and No-Gi divisions with divisions being based on belt rankings and weight class.

Competing in the no-Gi white belt (80.4-86.3kg) category, Hoareau represented the Grappling Fight Team (GFTeam) in Malaysia and won his bronze medal by defeating Carliff Carleel from Alpha MMA via rear naked choke but lost to Irfan Rizzqin also from GFTeam who went on to win the gold medal in the category.

Hoareau is also an active member of the Seychelles Mixed Martial Arts Association and has been training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu since 2009.

“I am very happy with the result as this is the first time I take part in a BJJ tournament and it is the biggest BJJ tournament in Malaysia, but obviously I am disappointed for not being able to win the gold medal for Seychelles. Yet, the competition allowed me to see some of my main weaknesses which I will try to work on as I prepare for the next competition,” said bronze medallist Hoareau.

MMA Association chairman Adrian Nanty said: “We are very pleased with Vivian’s performance as the BJJ scene in Malaysia is very competitive. Moreover, we feel that this is some indication that Seychellois athletes are able to compete successfully overseas if they are given the opportunity. The sport of BJJ in Seychelles is still growing and only a few local competitions have been held so far, but we can already see the potential of our Seychellois athletes especially if the sport is eventually included in the Indian Ocean Island Games or other international games.”