In a candid interview on ConnectCast, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu phenom Fabricio Andrey opened up about his departure from the Melqui Galvao team, his career trajectory, and his future aspirations in the sport.
The 25-year-old black belt, known for his dynamic style and impressive competition record, revealed that respect issues led to his decision to leave the team where he had achieved significant success.
“I felt like I wasn’t being valued the way I deserved it,” Andrey explained. When pressed about what kind of value he was referring to, he clarified: “I think it’s about respect.”
Andrey emphasized that the quality of training was not the issue. “There was always a good training,” he said, acknowledging that Melqui Galvao had been instrumental in his development. “He was very important. He helped me a lot. I grew up a lot.”
The split appears to have been amicable, as Andrey mentioned meeting Galvao at ADCC. “I complimented him, he just fought with Diogo. I complimented him, he hugged me.”
After leaving the Melqui Galvao team, Andrey returned to Alliance, where he had previously trained. “I’m in the Alliance until today. I’m fine now. I managed to organize,” he stated.
Andrey’s journey in Jiu-Jitsu began in Manaus, where he initially practiced capoeira before transitioning to BJJ. His competitive nature drove him to excel quickly, leading to opportunities to train in São Paulo with Alliance and later Dream Art.
The interview also touched on Andrey’s training with fellow Manaus natives Mica Galvão and Diogo Reis, describing intense competitive sessions. “It was more between me and Diogo, even though it was the same weight. We had a nice dispute.”
Looking ahead, Andrey revealed his next challenge is the World Championship with the kimono. “I promised like Lange,” he said, referring to his commitment to fight for Alliance.
Currently competing for One Championship in grappling events, Andrey remains focused on cementing his legacy in the sport while balancing his training load and recovery – an approach he developed after realizing he was pushing himself too hard without proper rest periods.
“Now I’m quiet,” Andrey concluded, suggesting he’s found peace with his current situation and is looking forward to his upcoming challenges with a clearer mind and better organizational structure.
