On the vibrant fields of his childhood, Diogo Reis once harbored dreams of emulating his older brother—a football star in his own right. Today, however, Diogo ‘Baby Shark’ Reis has etched his name into Brazilian Jjiu-Jitsu history as one of the sport’s most promising submission grapplers and a two-time ADCC champion. His story is a striking example of how life’s unexpected twists can lead to greatness.
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“My childhood dream was to be a soccer player.”
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Childhood Ambitions and Brotherly Influence
Diogo Reis admitted that as a youngster, he “tried to follow” in his older brother’s footsteps by aspiring to be a professional footballer, which is not an uncommon dream for kids in Brazil.
Growing up in an environment where soccer was more than a pastime, Diogo’s early ambitions were fueled by his brother’s achievements. The fervor of a football-dedicated household painted his early dreams with bright hopes of scoring big on the field.
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“I still enjoy playing soccer today. At the time, I even went to soccer school with my older brother. Wherever he went, I tried to follow him too.”
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Yet, as many great athletes discover, the journey toward one passion can inadvertently pave the way toward another. For Diogo, that path led him not to the football pitch but to the mats of Brazilian jiu-jitsu—a twist that would shape his entire future.
A “Baby” Shark is Born
As detailed in a feature by ONEFC, it was Brazilian jiu-jitsu that eventually revealed to Diogo a different kind of artistry—one that fused technique, discipline, and resilience. The transition wasn’t an overnight epiphany but rather a gradual, almost serendipitous realization.
While the allure of football remained a part of his past, the rigorous demands and the mental fortitude required on the BJJ mats resonated with him on a deeper level. His journey from the football fields to welcoming the challenge of grappling tournaments is a testament to his willingness to explore uncharted paths.
This evolution is reflected in his nickname “Baby Shark,” a moniker that speaks volumes about his tenacity and predatory instinct on the mat. Diogo’s rapid ascent in the submission grappling world is not just due to technical prowess; it’s also a celebration of his decision to diverge from a pre-determined path and create his own destiny.
Picking the Mat Over the Field
The journey of Diogo Reis is about more than just choosing a different sport—it’s about finding one’s purpose. While the bright lights of a football stadium once filled his dreams, it was the raw, unfiltered reality of BJJ that provided a new arena for personal growth.
His early attempts to mirror his brother’s football career gradually gave way to an appreciation for the strategic and mentally demanding nature of BJJ. Diogo’s passion for BJJ grew alongside his competitive spirit, leading him to focus on mastering a discipline that rewards both tactical depth and physical endurance.
The decision to switch allegiances from soccer to BJJ has not only redefined his athletic career but also allowed Diogo to inspire countless fans and aspiring grapplers. His story underscores a timeless truth in sports: sometimes, motivation and purpose can emerge from embracing a path that diverges from our earliest dreams.
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“I want people to be able to achieve their dreams through jiu-jitsu. So, it goes beyond medals and titles. I want to be an example for the kids. This martial art changed my life and that of my family.”
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Diogo Reis’s story serves as a beacon for many young athletes wrestling with the expectations set before them. His transition from dreaming of soccer glory to carving out a renowned reputation in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu exemplifies the power of adapting one’s ambitions.
Anything is Possible
From the fervent pitches of youth to the disciplined embrace of BJJ, Diogo Reis’s journey is an inspiring reminder that our paths are rarely linear. His early dreams of soccer, inspired by a beloved older brother, have evolved into a story of resilience, passion, and transformation.
Whether you’re an aspiring footballer or a budding grappler, Diogo’s journey reminds us that while family influence and early dreams shape us, the courage to forge a new path is what ultimately defines a champion.
This weekend, we get to witness the long-awaited Diogo Reis debut at ONE Fight Night 29, as he takes on Shoya Ishiguro in a 10-minute flyweight submission grappling contest.
