Mikey Musumeci

Name: Mikey Musumeci (Full Name: Michael Musumeci Jr.)

Current Rank: Black Belt under Gilbert “Durinho” Burns and Jonatas “Tagarela” Gurgel

Notable Achievements:

• 4x IBJJF World Champion (2017, 2018, 2019, 2021)

• 1x IBJJF Pan Championship (2016)

• 1x IBJJF European Open (2017, 2020)

• 1x IBJJF American Nationals (2015, 2016)

• 1x IBJJF World No-Gi Championship (2016)

• 1x AJP Abu Dhabi World Pro (2017)

Lineage 1: Carlos Gracie --> Helio Gracie --> Carlson Gracie --> Andre Pederneiras --> Rafael Fofitio --> Gilbert Burns --> Michael Musumeci

Lineage 2: Carlos Gracie --> Helio Gracie --> Carlson Gracie --> Andre Pederneiras --> Joao Roque --> Jonatas Gurgel --> Michael Musumeci

Meet Mikey Musumeci, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt under Gilbert "Durinho" Burns and Jonatas "Tagarela" Gurgel. With a lineage that traces back to the legendary Carlos Gracie and Helio Gracie, Mikey is a modern-day prodigy in the world of grappling. Known for his intricate berimbolo and crab ride techniques, he's not just a competitor; he's a game-changer. Mikey is the first American athlete to win the IBJJF World Championship gold medal in the male black belt division more than twice.

Early Life

Born on July 7, 1996, in Marlboro, New Jersey, Mikey Musumeci began his Jiu-Jitsu journey at the tender age of 4. His early training was under coach Fernando "Cabeça" at Fatijo's Martial Arts Academy. After moving to Wellington, Florida, he continued his training journey, eventually crossing paths with the Mendes Brothers, who would become lifelong mentors.

Initial Training and Influences

Mikey's early years were marked by a series of moves and training under various coaches, including Emyr "Shark" Bussade and Javill Byron. His purple belt was awarded by Byron after Mikey won his second world title as a juvenile blue belt. His brown belt was awarded by Guilherme Mendes, marking a significant milestone in his career.

Formative Years in Jiu-Jitsu

Mikey's rise through the ranks was nothing short of spectacular. By the time he was 18, he had already won multiple world titles in various belt divisions. His grappling style, heavily reliant on modern techniques like the berimbolo, set him apart from his peers and made him a force to be reckoned with.

Ascension to Prominence

Mikey's black belt journey has been a rollercoaster of victories, including multiple IBJJF World Championships and Pan Championships. His technical brilliance and strategic mindset have made him one of the most exciting competitors to watch, earning him a special place in the annals of Jiu-Jitsu history.

Achievements and Titles

Mikey's list of achievements is awe-inspiring. He has won the IBJJF World Championship four times (2017, 2018, 2019, 2021), the IBJJF Pan Championship in 2016, and the IBJJF European Open twice (2017, 2020), among many other titles.

Personal Philosophy and Style

For Mikey, Jiu-Jitsu is an ever-evolving art form. Known for his berimbolo technique, he has a modern approach to grappling that has influenced a new generation of fighters. His focus on intricate details and technical mastery is a testament to his dedication to the sport.

Current Endeavors and Legacy

While still an active competitor, Mikey also shares his knowledge through seminars and training camps. His influence extends beyond the mat, inspiring a new generation of grapplers to push the boundaries of what's possible in Jiu-Jitsu.

Conclusion

Mikey Musumeci is not just a black belt or a multiple-time world champion; he's a living testament to the transformative power of Jiu-Jitsu. With a career still in its prime, the best chapters of his story are yet to be written, and the Jiu-Jitsu world waits in eager anticipation for what comes next.