Coming from Rio de Janeiro with no plans to stay in the United States, Andressa Simas' journey has taken a remarkable turn. After earning the opportunity to train at Atos HQ in San Diego, one of the most competitive environments in the world, she embraced a new chapter in her jiu-jitsu career. Surrounded by world-class athletes and driven by the discipline of daily training, she’s transformed both technically and mentally. Her recent breakout performance at the No-Gi Pans, capped by an incredible flying armbar, solidified her place among the new wave of elite female competitors representing Atos.

1. You’ve been training full-time at Atos HQ in San Diego, one of the most competitive environments in the world. What has that experience been like for your growth as an athlete?

It has been a transformative experience. Training alongside high-level athletes challenges me every day to improve. The training routine, discipline, and competitive environment at Atos HQ constantly push me out of my comfort zone.

2. Coming from Rio de Janeiro to train in the U.S. is a huge step. What motivated you to make that move, and how has it changed your jiu-jitsu?

I honestly never imagined this would happen. I came from Rio de Janeiro just to compete in the Gi World Championship, with no plans to stay. But then I got an opportunity to train at Atos HQ, and that’s when everything changed for me. I’ve evolved so much since I arrived — I feel more complete and have started to see jiu-jitsu in a much more professional way.

3. Atos is known for producing world-class talent. What’s something you’ve learned from training with the Dream Team that has impacted your mindset or style the most?

The main lesson for me has been the importance of hard work and discipline — doing what needs to be done, even when I’m tired. The girls here are very dedicated, and that motivates me to give my best every single day as well.

4. You had an incredible performance at No-Gi Pans with four matches, four wins, and one of the best submissions of the tournament. How did you feel going into that event?

Before the event, I wasn’t feeling well mentally, and honestly, I think my biggest fight was against my own mind. I had to work on my emotional side to be able to step onto the mat with confidence and focus on what was truly within my control at that moment: giving my best.

5. Let’s talk about that flying armbar. Walk us through what you saw in that moment. Was it something you planned, or did you feel it instinctively during the match?

That submission has been part of my game since I was a blue belt, especially in no-gi. But in that moment, it was all about a quick read of the situation. I noticed my opponent was overextending her arm, reacted, and managed to finish the submission.

6. How has it felt seeing your highlight shared across the jiu-jitsu world? The women’s team at Atos is becoming one of the strongest in the sport. What’s it like being part of that new wave of female competitors representing Atos?

It was really nice to see people sharing that moment. I was very happy — not just for the recognition, but for representing all the hard work we put in every day. The women’s team at Atos is truly special; we have strong, talented, and dedicated athletes. Being part of this generation is very rewarding.

7. This win really feels like a breakout moment for you. What are your goals for the rest of 2025 and beyond?

This victory was an important milestone, and I was really happy to win and to overcome myself. My focus now is on competing at the No-Gi World Championship. For the future, I hope to compete in the Grand Slam and chase the titles I’ve always dreamed of.