There’s a good reason for Brendan Schaub to be regarded with distrust in Brazil: he’s the fighter who’s going to take on Brazilian idol Rodrigo Minotauro at UFC Rio on the coming 27th of August. But that wasn’t the reception he was given at the Tijuquinha favela, one of Rio de Janeiro’s numerous needy neighborhoods.
Brendan went to see the place where fighter Eduardo Pachu teaches to dozens of children seeking to broaden their horizons through the martial arts. Awe-struck by the UFC standout, the children even promised to cheer for the American in his fight against Mino. Will they really?!
Well that’s of least importance. The important part is the goodwill gesture of the fighter and his trainer Amal Easton, a Renzo Gracie black belt and our GMA. When they return to Rio to train a few weeks before the bout, they’ll bring with them equipment like gloves and shin guards to donate to the project.
Like a true Rio de Janeiro native, although drawing some attention, Brendan strolled through the favela’s streets; one day earlier, he climbed Pedra da Gávea mountain, a hike popular among the city’s Jiu-Jitsu crew – further proof he’s right at home.
“I met some really loveable kids here; it was an unforgettable experience,” said Brendan, who capped off the day with a trip to the beach.
Check out the video and photos from the fighter’s excursion below:
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