Several friends, students, and training partners of Professor Octavio “Ratinho” Couto, who tragically passed away yesterday at the age of 52 in Italy due to a fatal fall on the shores of Lake Como, have shared their memories and tributes to this esteemed practitioner of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Professor Ratinho was a student of Romero Jacaré and held black belts in both the Alliance, Brasa, and Akxe BJJ academies, located in Barra da Tijuca.
Here’s a selection of the most heartfelt testimonials among the countless tributes to Ratinho.
– Roger Gracie:
“This past weekend, we were celebrating the union of Rafael and Jordan Lang, two wonderful individuals. Tragically, our joy turned into sorrow with the loss of our dear friend, Octavio Ratinho. He will forever hold a place in our hearts.
– Chico Mendes:
“The Jiu-Jitsu community has lost one of its most skilled instructors and genuinely kind-hearted individuals. Ratinho was the one who taught me how to teach Jiu-Jitsu. He showed me that it’s not just about winning gold medals, but about making a positive impact on people’s lives. In 1997, when my parents were going through a divorce and my teacher, Leozinho Vieira, was in São Paulo, I found myself without a training partner. Ratinho noticed me in Ipanema and asked if I was participating in the Serrano Cup. When he learned that I wasn’t training properly, he invited me to train at Akxe. That experience completely changed my perspective on Jiu-Jitsu. Thank you, Ratinho, for all the memories and the invaluable contributions you made to our Jiu-Jitsu community.
– Tiago Asfora:
“The world often plays inexplicable tricks on us. I trained at Nova Geração, while Ratinho trained at Strike, right next door. I had always heard that he was an exceptional teacher. Eventually, we faced each other in a friendly challenge. Later on, I started training at Alliance Barra, now Akxe, and they welcomed me with open arms. It felt as if I were Ratinho and Vini’s own student. That’s when I truly understood all the praise I had heard about him. How could he perceive such intricate details in positions? Years later, he decided to explore the world and only returned to Rio occasionally. He mentioned that he no longer desired a regular gym, as he wanted more freedom and quality time with his daughter. Thank you so much, Ratinho. May you rest in peace. Your infectious spirit, radiant smile, graceful demeanor, and invaluable teachings will forever be cherished. As I always said: I’m your biggest fan!”
– Rodrigo Comprido:
“Mouse, I cannot express enough gratitude for everything you brought into my life. I am truly blessed to have had a friend like you. Enjoy paradise!”
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