Brazilian media source G1 has reported that Erberth Santos, the 2017 IBJJF BJJ world champion, has been apprehended due to his alleged involvement in a series of disturbing incidents within his home country. Alongside his fellow athlete Andre Pessoa, the BJJ champion is facing accusations of engaging in several instances of rape and robbery in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul.
Additionally, as per G1’s account, Santos and Pessoa have purportedly admitted to these crimes subsequent to their apprehension in Boituva, located in the state of Sao Paulo. Law enforcement’s inquiry reveals that the duo is suspected of assaulting at least four women, carrying out their offenses with extreme brutality, which involved restraining, menacing, and physically harming the victims. At the time of their arrest, the two individuals were found in possession of 26 mobile phones, as well as knives and firearms. Both Santos and Pessoa are presently in custody, awaiting legal proceedings. A specific court date has not been disclosed at this juncture.
This incident is not the first instance where Santos has been associated with violent controversies. In both 2015 and 2017, the 29-year-old was involved in altercations during BJJ competitions, striking opponents with his elbow. In 2018, he purportedly kicked opponent Tommy Langaker in the face moments before being submitted at the IBJJF European Championship.
In 2019, during a match against BJJ star Felipe ‘Preguica’ Pena, Santos once again displayed his volatile behavior. Following what appeared to be a knee injury and receiving negative crowd reactions, the grappler charged towards the audience, triggering a significant altercation with spectators. Consequently, the match was prematurely terminated, with Preguica declared the winner.
