The Prodigy of his time MARGARIDA . /// A video from Dr. Banar's Classics

Upon hearing the name 'Margarida', one should ineluctably think of one of the most accomplished, entertaining, and aggressive jiu jitsu fighters of our time.  Fernando 'Margarida' Pontes is perhaps best known for being a former World BJJ Champion in both his weight class and open weight division.  He was also the youngest absolute champion at the time.

The Paulista holds some of the most memorable fights in the Pan Ams and in the Mundials.  With such victories over both Fabio Leopoldo and Fabio Gurgel, the latter being one of his first Brazilian jiu jitsu instructors.  Ironically, it was Gurgel who gave 'Margarida' his nickname, which translates to 'daisy'.  Margirida was the first person to submit Gurgel inside of competition. 

Margarida started training at the age of thirteen.  Throughout his jiu jitsu journey, he has represented many different teams as well as some amazing professors.  Fernando and Mario (Yamasaki), Fabio Gurgel (Alliance), Fabio Santos (Fabio Santos Brazilian Jiu Jitsu), Nino “Elvis” Schembri (Gracie Barra), Rickson Gracie (Rickson Gracie Jiu Jitsu), Roberto Godoi (Formally Godoi/Macaco) and Murilo Bustamante (Brazilian Top Team).  

Jiu Jitsu will continue to evolve, but Margarida’s record will always speak for itself.  Having had the opportunity to watch him compete and train with him in his native Brazil, as well as record some of his most memorable bouts, I'd like to share with you some archival footage from the early 2000'sI've selected from the vault!  Enjoy and share my friends!