The Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu community is rallying around one of their own as Daniel “Big Dan” Manasoiu of New Wave Jiu-Jitsu has stepped up to help a teammate facing a serious health crisis.
Manasoiu is organizing a fundraiser for Ezekiel, described as “a longtime member of our team and a very important part of our ADCC camps.” According to the gofundme fundraiser details, Ezekiel recently underwent emergency surgery for a brain tumor that has left him unable to train.
In a message to the community, Manasoiu announced he would be offering private Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu lessons in exchange for donations to help cover Ezekiel’s medical expenses. “Surgery number two is coming up for our friend Buba,” Manasoiu wrote, referring to Ezekiel by his nickname. “If you’re able, please consider donating. Any contribution will mean the world and be taken as a personal favor.”
The fundraiser, which has a goal of $35,000, has already raised over $11,100 from 129 donations, demonstrating the strong support within the grappling community. Manasoiu contributed $1000 personally.
Ezekiel is described by teammates as someone who “would take off the shirt he was wearing to help out his fellow man,” making the response especially meaningful. He has been an integral part of New Wave’s ADCC training camps, which prepare some of the world’s elite grapplers.
With medical bills mounting and a second surgery approaching, every donation counts toward helping Ezekiel focus on recovery rather than financial stress.
