Proving It Wasn’t Luck | João Mendes’ Journey to The Crown 2025

Last year, João Mendes shocked the world when he went from the 22nd seed to IBJJF World Champion. Now, the featherweight standout returns to the stage of The Crown 2025 with a point to prove: that his world title was no accident. Filmed inside Atos HQ in San Diego, this episode takes you inside João’s training camp as he prepares to face one of the toughest divisions in Jiu-Jitsu, featuring elite names like Kennedy Maciel, Cole Abate, and Adam Wardziński. With the guidance of IBJJF Hall of Famer André Galvão, João reflects on his journey from underdog to champion — and how every round, every loss, and every hard conversation helped shape the athlete he’s become. Watch as João opens up about: -His mindset after winning Worlds as the lowest seed in the bracket -Training alongside Andy Murasaki and the Atos team in San Diego -How his first Crown experience changed his confidence and career His mission to prove that true champions don’t happen by chance, they’re built through years of work.