Orlando Sanchez's Family

Orlando Sanchez's Family

We are devastated to share that Professor Orlando Sanchez, one of the top ultra-heavyweights in grappling and a beloved member of the Jiu-Jitsu community, passed away on December 15, 2022, leaving behind his wife Trisha and their children, Little O, Penelope, and Oren. This fundraising effort aims to support Orlando's family; all proceeds will go directly to them.

This is where the Jiu-Jitsu community is at its best; being selfless in supporting a devoted husband, father, tireless professor, and a man that has changed thousands of lives through his work and academies. He was truly a Champion in Life.

Orlando Sanchez was an accomplished athlete and Instructor known for his life experience and inspiring story of overcoming drug dependence through Jiu-Jitsu. He earned his black belt in four years, one of the fastest promotions in American history. Orlando touched the lives of thousands of people, and he will be deeply missed.

We ask that you please consider donating to support Orlando's family during this difficult time. Please help us spread the word by sharing this link within your community. Thank you for any help you can provide.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS INCREDIBLE PROFESSOR:

Orlando Sanchez had many opportunities to train with Gracie Barra's network of exquisite Instructors and competitors such as Romulo Barral, Draculino, and José Olímpio. Olímpio became a close friend of Orlando Sanchez and awarded Orlando his black belt in September 2012. This promotion came after a great competitive year as a brown belt. In his weight class and the open weight divisions, Sanchez won important tournaments such as the Pan American Championships and the Brazilian Nationals.

Being a relentless competitor, Orlando Sanchez also picked up MMA, training with Rafael Cordeiro at Kings MMA and becoming one of the leading partners of Fabricio Werdum. Sanchez competed in MMA from 2010 to 2015, achieving an impressive record of 5-0-1.

Orlando was also known as The Cuban Tree Stump, or The Big O. He first gained notoriety while competing in the lower belt ranks of the sport and later won an ADCC World title in 2015, further cementing his status as one of the top ultra-heavyweights in grappling at the time.

Sanchez passed away on December 15, 2022, at 40, leaving behind a loving wife and three young children. We are grateful for any help you can provide by contributing to the fundraiser or spreading the link to our entire Jiu-Jitsu family. Thank you for being a part of this amazing community that supports its members in times of need.

Learn more about his Jiu-Jitsu career on BJJ Heroes.

Main Jiu-Jitsu Competition Achievements:

1st Place ADCC World Championship (2015)

2nd Place ADCC World Championship (2017)

Main Jiu-Jitsu Competition Achievements (Colored Belts):

1st Place IBJJF World Championship (2010 blue)

1st Place IBJJF Pans Championship (2012 brown)

1st Place CBJJ Brazilian Nationals (2012** brown)

2nd Place IBJJF World Championship (2010/2009 blue)