Mica Galvao

Early Life and Martial Arts Foundations

Micael Galvão was born on October 8, 2003, in Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil. He began his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey at age four, training under his father, Melqui Galvão. At ten, Mica expanded his grappling foundation by incorporating Luta Livre Esportiva, earning his black belt in this discipline in March 2021 from Master Totonho Aleixo. Demonstrating exceptional dedication to grappling, Mica left formal schooling at age 13 to fully commit to training and competition.

Rapid Rise Through Colored Belts

From his earliest competitions, Mica Galvão emerged as a grappling prodigy, dominating juvenile divisions with remarkable consistency. In 2019 alone, he captured multiple IBJJF juvenile titles, including the World Championship, Pan Championship, European Open, South American Championship, and Brazilian Nationals. Even as a juvenile competitor, Mica began defeating elite adult grapplers, showcasing technical maturity, strategic composure, and a complete grappling skillset far beyond his years.

Historic IBJJF World Championship Win and Doping Suspension

In 2022, at 18 years old, Mica Galvão made history as the youngest male IBJJF black belt world champion at middleweight. However, this groundbreaking achievement was later nullified after he tested positive for clomiphene at the 2022 IBJJF World Jiu-Jitsu Championship. Although medically prescribed, Mica had not secured the required Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE). Consequently, he received a one-year suspension beginning July 22, 2022, and was stripped of his 2022 IBJJF world title. Mica publicly addressed the incident, emphasizing transparency, accountability, and his commitment to integrity in competition.

Comeback and Pursuit of the Super Grand Slam

Returning to competition in 2023, Mica Galvão quickly reaffirmed his elite status by winning the 2023 IBJJF World Jiu-Jitsu Championship. In 2024, he further demonstrated his dedication to clean competition by successfully passing multiple USADA drug tests following victories at the 2024 IBJJF Pan Jiu-Jitsu Championship and the 2024 IBJJF World Jiu-Jitsu Championship. That same year, Mica achieved the prestigious IBJJF Grand Slam, winning all major gi championships: European, Pan, Brazilian Nationals, and Worlds. He then secured the coveted ADCC title at the 2024 ADCC World Championship, becoming only the second athlete in history, after Rubens "Cobrinha" Charles, to complete the Super Grand Slam within a single year.

Establishment of Melqui Galvão Jiu-Jitsu Academy

In 2023, Mica and his father, Melqui Galvão, parted ways with Fight Sports to establish their own academy, Melqui Galvão Jiu-Jitsu. Relocating their training base from Manaus to Jundiaí, São Paulo, they aimed to provide greater exposure and financial opportunities for their athletes. Under Melqui's experienced guidance, Mica now leads a talented squad featuring notable competitors such as Fabricio Andrey and Diogo "Baby Shark" Reis.

Transition Plans to MMA and Olympic Wrestling

Mica Galvão has announced his decision to cease competing in grappling events that utilize points or advantages, shifting his focus toward preparing for a career in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). Additionally, he has expressed intentions to transition into wrestling, aiming to qualify for the Olympic Games. His relationship with Olympic wrestling champion Amit Elor further supports and influences his wrestling ambitions.

Advocacy for Animal Welfare and Vegetarian Lifestyle

Since 2019, Mica Galvão has embraced a vegetarian lifestyle, citing significant improvements in his athletic performance. He actively promotes animal welfare and ethical dietary choices, using his platform to advocate for compassionate living and responsible dietary practices.