As one of the most accomplished colored belt athletes of his era, expectations were high for Mauricio Oliveira’s black belt career. He won the Worlds at blue, purple, and brown belt, defeating many athletes who went on to have successful careers as black belts. In May 2021, Mauricio captured the biggest title of his career, winning the medium-heavy division at the Brazilian Nationals in Sao Paulo. He was in top form at the event, and looked to be on his way to more major titles.

Last April, however, Mauricio suffered a devastating knee injury, putting a momentary halt to his budding career. After nearly a year of rehabilitation, Mauricio made his comeback to competition at the Curitiba Summer Open. He put on a tremendous performance, winning his first match with an arm lock from the guard, his second match 13-0, and his final by a score of 3-0, not conceding any points on his run to gold. Mauricio will take on the medium-heavy division at the 2023 Pans, his debut in the event as a black belt. Medium-heavy is stacked, both in terms of numbers (35) and quality. Mauricio answered our questions about his injury, the 2023 Pans, and his plans for the remainder of the year.

Can you talk about the injury you suffered last year? What were some of the biggest challenges you faced in getting healthy and what did you do to overcome them?

“I had a complete tear of the ligament. It was a very difficult time being away from competitions not knowing when and how I would return. But I worked hard and I’m back."

You’re signed up for the 2023 Pans at medium-heavyweight, your first major IBJJF event since the 2021 Brasileiros where you took gold. How do you feel about the division and how excited are you to compete in Florida?

“I’m back after almost one year without fighting, I’m excited to be back in competitions. I hope to fight well and come out with the victory. I’m sure it’s a very strong division but I’m excited for my first black belt Pans.”

What advice do you have for athletes who are trying to overcome major injuries?

“We can’t change the past. It’s already happened. There's no point in dwelling on it and asking difficult questions. We must think about the future. Your body is smart and powerful to recover. It’s a matter of time and that will depend on some factors, but it will happen. Look for what you need to do to treat and care for this injury. Seek help from a professional as soon as possible. Take lessons from your injury too. What can you learn from the injury you had? And have a lot of faith in God.”

You’ve spoken before about overcoming mental hurdles. What are some of the things you do these days to stay happy and motivated to compete?

“I have a lot of faith in God.”

Where can we expect to see you compete after the Pans? What are your goals for 2023?

“I intend to compete more this year. This is my goal for 2023.”

Go to flograppling.com to watch Mauricio and the rest of the elite black belt competitors put it all on the line at the 2023 Pan Jiu-Jitsu Championships. Coverage for the event begins on Wednesday March 22nd and runs through Sunday the 26th.