Leandro Lo

Early Life and Training Under Cicero Costha

Leandro Lo was born on May 11, 1989, in São Paulo, Brazil. He began his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey under the mentorship of esteemed coach Cicero Costha. Training at Cicero Costha Academy, Lo rapidly advanced through the ranks, distinguishing himself early on as a formidable competitor with exceptional talent and dedication.

Founding of New School Brotherhood

In September 2015, Lo left Cicero Costha Academy to establish his own team, NS Brotherhood. His academy quickly became a magnet for elite competitors, reflecting Lo's strong leadership and respected reputation. Emphasizing an inclusive and positive training atmosphere, NS Brotherhood mirrored Lo's approachable demeanor and commitment to camaraderie.

Competition Style and Technical Innovations

The "Leandro Lo Guard"

Leandro Lo gained widespread acclaim for his innovative open guard, famously known as the "Leandro Lo guard." Characterized by dynamic grips, precise foot placement, and relentless off-balancing techniques, his guard allowed him to control opponents and initiate aggressive sweeps.

Aggressive and Versatile Approach

Lo's competition style was marked by explosive takedowns, relentless pressure passing, and constant forward momentum, making him one of the most exciting athletes to watch. His versatility was unmatched, as he successfully captured IBJJF World Championship titles across five different weight classes, ranging from lightweight to heavyweight.

Notable Matches and Rivalries

Breakthrough Victory Over Michael Langhi

In April 2011, Lo achieved a significant milestone by defeating Michael Langhi at the UAEJJF World Pro, ending Langhi's remarkable three-year undefeated streak. This victory firmly established Lo as a top-tier competitor on the international stage.

Success at Copa Pódio

Lo further solidified his legacy through multiple victories at the prestigious Copa Pódio Grand Prix, successfully competing in lightweight, middleweight, and heavyweight divisions. Throughout his career, he faced and defeated numerous elite athletes, including Lucas Lepri, André Galvão, and Marcus "Buchecha" Almeida.

Tragic Death and Community Response

On August 7, 2022, Leandro Lo was tragically shot and killed at Clube Sírio in São Paulo during a pagode concert by the band Pixote. The shooter was identified as Henrique Otavio Oliveira Velozo, an off-duty military police officer. Following an initial physical altercation, Velozo fatally shot Lo in the forehead. The incident profoundly shocked the global martial arts community, prompting thousands worldwide to attend memorial services and pay tribute. Lo's family and legal representatives actively pursue justice, with the suspect currently on trial for murder.

Instituto Leandro Lo and Legacy Initiatives

To honor his memory and continue his legacy, Leandro Lo's family and friends established the Instituto Leandro Lo in São Paulo. This non-profit organization provides free Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training and mentorship to underprivileged youth, using the sport as a powerful tool for positive social change. The institute is partially funded by proceeds from the "Legends Never Die" charity gi produced by Kingz Kimonos. Through this initiative, Lo's passion for jiu-jitsu and his core values of respect, discipline, and love for the sport continue to positively impact the community.

Posthumous Honors and Tributes

Following his passing, Leandro Lo received significant posthumous recognition. In 2023, he was inducted into the IBJJF Hall of Fame, joining legendary figures such as Roger Gracie and Marcelo Garcia. Additionally, Lo was honored by the UAEJJF Hall of Fame for his multiple Abu Dhabi World Pro titles. Major events, including the IBJJF World Championships and ADCC 2022, featured tributes and moments of silence in his memory. His longtime coach, Cicero Costha, named the training area at Projeto Social Lótus after him, further cementing Lo's enduring legacy.

Influence on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Culture

Leandro Lo is remembered as one of the most dynamic, inspiring, and positive athletes in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu history. His untimely death inspired the phrase "Legends Never Die," widely embraced by the global BJJ community. Athletes worldwide continue to honor Lo by wearing patches and gis bearing his name during competitions. His philosophy—"fight hard, live fully, and treat everyone like a friend"—remains a guiding principle for practitioners around the globe, ensuring his influence endures for generations to come.