By Guilherme Cruz

Photo divulgação

Shooto Brazil bantamweight champion, Jucier “Formiga” (Kimura / Nova União) is in Rio de Janeiro to continue the preparation for the biggest challenge of his career. Training for his international debut on July 17, the fighter will face the Shooto Japan champion Shinichi “BJ” Kojima and, in case of victory, will have a chance for the title. "Everyone here in Kimura is very happy with the opportunity that Dedé (André Pederneiras) is giving him", celebrates Jair Rodrigues, leader of the Kimura team in Natal, following closely the training of the athlete since he was 11 years old.

"Formiga started training here at the academy with 11 years old and, although still very young, he’s very focused and dedicated to the trainings. He’s ready to make the final part of the training with our master André Pederneiras, who will work hard on the technical and strategy for this fight", says the coach, also focusing the problem of time zone. "It will be a lot better for him to work the issue of time away from home, so that doesn’t conflict with the daily routine of the family", explains Jair.