(The previous edition can be found HERE )





After taking a week off, I'm back with another Match of the Week! This week's match is Romulo Barral vs. Saulo Ribeiro from medium heavy finals of the 2007 Worlds.





Romulo Barral is a black belt under Vinicius "Draculino" Magalhães and represents Gracie Barra. Romulo is one of the best fighters in the medium heavy weight division and in the world. In 2007, Gracie Mag named Romulo as the number one BJJ competitor in the world. Today, Romulo runs a very successful academy, Gracie Barra Northridge.





Romulo is a four time World Champion (2013, 2012, 2009, 2007), a two time Pan American (2007 weight & absolute), Brazilian National (2007, 2006), and Asian Open Champion (2006 weight & absolute), and a one-time ADCC (2013), European (2013), and World NoGi Champion (2009). He is also a six time World Silver Medalist (2014, 2011, 2010 weight & absolute, 2009 absolute, 2007 absolute) and Pan American Bronze Medalist (2013 weight & absolute, 2006).





When you think of spider guard, you automatically think of Romulo Barral. Over the years, he has become synonymous with the position. Submissions wise, Romulo is also well known for the use of the triangle throughout his matches. He executes this very well from the spider guard position. He also uses the cross collar choke from mount extremely well.





Romulo Barral





Saulo Ribeiro is a true legend in the world of Jiu-Jitsu. He is a 4th degree black belt under Royler Gracie and is also a black belt in Judo. Saulo is the older brother of two time absolute World Champion, Xande Ribeiro. After a long and impressive career in Jiu-Jitsu, Saulo was inducted into the IBJJF Hall of Fame in 2012.





It’s no surprise to find out that Saulo has won numerous major titles throughout his long career in our sport. He is a five time World Champion (2002, 2000, 1999, 1998, 1997), a four time World Masters and Seniors Champion (2013 weight & absolute, 2012 weight & absolute), a three time Brazilian National Champion (1998 weight & absolute, 1996), a two time ADCC (2003, 2000) and Pan American Champion (1998 weight & absolute), and a one-time World NoGi Champion (2008).





Having a black belt in Judo, it’s not really a surprise that Saulo is known for his throws and takedowns. One takedown he uses frequently throughout his matches is the Kouchi Gari, but he also uses both single and double leg takedowns, especially in NoGi. For the most part, Saulo is a top player. Obviously, at the level that he is, his guard is very good also, but he seems to prefer the top game. The choke from the mount is a favourite submission of Saulo's.





Saulo Ribeiro





I actually only saw this match not so long ago. I must say I was impressed! This fight is almost eight years old, but I really did think it was great. It starts off really good for the first few minutes, with both competitors exchanging sweeps and submission attempts. It does slow down a little in the middle and near the end, but I still thought it was a great match overall.





The video of the match can be found below! I hope you guys enjoy!





See you next week!





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