Yesterday at the IBJJF Worlds competition in the gi, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu legend Gabi Garcia retired after throwing her black belt on the mat. This came moments after losing to Gabrieli Pessanha who even submitted Garcia.
What’s more astonishing is that this was Gabi Garcia’s first submission loss as a black belt, previously avoiding tapping out for over a decade of competing at the highest level. In fact, before yesterday she had only lost in competition 7 times, with many of these coming by decision or points. Interestingly though, she has now lost 3 of her last 3 matches which is the worst run of her career.
It was an emotional moment for Garcia who was visibly tearful and went on to hug her professor, Fabio Gurgel afterward. It wasn’t all sadness though, as she still earned a bronze medal which is nothing to be laughed at.
Gabrieli Pessanha secured the submission after a beautiful sacrifice throw, eventually going on to mount Garcia, take her back and use a bow and arrow choke to get the finish.
However, it isn’t exactly the end for Gabi Garcia. She commented on Instagram, saying “(I want to focus on MMA, on cameras, for ADCC I’m really going to train, my gym and now officially in my heart now stay the best moments and memories of my life.” She also thanked Alliance and Fabio Gurgel for their support.
With this said, it seems that Garcia has genuinely retired from competing in the gi – but has also confirmed she will return to ADCC, a competition which she has dominated in recent times. Now in her mid 30s, it looks like Gabi Garcia is now focusing on other areas of her BJJ and life.
