“I started training judo when I was 5 years old. I didn't know much. My mom just took me and my brother to do some judo because we were very energetic. We did that for a couple of years. I don't know why we stopped, but I came back to try other forms of martial arts like kung fu and karate when I was 12 and never stopped.”

Brazilian former mixed martial artist and submission grappler

Demian Maia is a Brazilian former professional mixed martial artist and submission grappler, and a 5th degree Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt. He built his reputation in combat sports through grappling and control, becoming a familiar name in mixed martial arts. His career is closely associated with Brazilian jiu-jitsu and submission grappling, where technical skill and positional dominance define the style. He is known for competing at a high level in mixed martial arts while carrying the credentials of a seasoned BJJ practitioner.