Yuri Simões is a highly accomplished Brazilian grappler, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner, and mixed martial artist. Born on June 18, 1990, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Simões has become one of the most respected figures in the grappling world.
Simões began his martial arts journey at a young age, starting with judo at four and transitioning to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at nine. He received his black belt from Ricardo Vieira in 2011, later joining Caio Terra's team in 2013.
As a competitor, Simões has achieved remarkable success in both gi and no-gi competitions. He is a three-time ADCC World Champion, winning gold in different weight divisions: 88 kg in 2015, 99 kg in 2017, and the Absolute division in 2022. This feat demonstrates his versatility and skill across weight classes.
In addition to his ADCC titles, Simões has also won four gold medals in the IBJJF World No-Gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Championship, claiming both his weight category and the absolute division in 2014 and 2016. His gi accomplishments include winning the IBJJF Pan American Championship in 2012 and 2014.
Simões is known for his aggressive and submission-oriented style. He has notable wins over some of the sport's biggest names, including Keenan Cornelius, Romulo Barral, Felipe Pena, and Nicholas Meregali.
In 2020, Simões transitioned to mixed martial arts, signing with ONE Championship. Although his MMA career has had a challenging start, his grappling credentials make him a formidable opponent in any grappling-based contest.Simões continues to compete at the highest levels of grappling while also pursuing his MMA career. His journey from a young judoka in Rio de Janeiro to a world-renowned grappler and martial artist exemplifies dedication, skill, and continuous evolution in the martial arts world.