
Reza Monfaradi
MMA Fighter, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Reza Monfaradi is the pioneer of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Capoeira and MMA in Bahrain. His interest in Martial Arts was apparent at a very young age, and began training in Hapkido, as a teen. After years of intense training, Reza achieve a 3rd DAN (3rd Degree Black Belt).
During a training session in 1995, he suffered serious spinal injuries – immobilizing him completely. Focused on recovery and regaining mobility, yet unable to train; Reza decided to travel to San Diego, California-to pursue studies in Graphic Design. Here Reza was introduced to ‘Brazilian Jiu-Jistu’ and was inspired by BJJ practitioner, Royce Gracie, a competitor in the Ultimate Fighting Championship. Miraculously, Reza was able to achieve a full recovery in time, he was able to train again. This was the start of the greatest journey of his career in the martial arts.
Broadening his Jiu-Jitsu training with Wrestling and Judo classes, as well as training under Roy Harris (American black belt under Joe Morera), Reza was able to compete in a large number of competitions and won himself many medals in the process.
Returning to Bahrain in 1999, Reza started training a number of family members and friends in the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (non-existent in the Kingdom at the time). Over the next few years, BJJ received a lot of public interest through Reza’s endeavors and the momentum generated, eventually lead to his receiving a grant from the General Organization of Youth and Sports (GOYS), authorizing the opening of a Jiu-Jitsu academy.
This was the beginning of Reza’s Martial Arts Centre (RMAC), which over time, has added onto its martial arts portfolio, even becoming renowned for creating world champions.
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