ADCC champ Orlando Sanchez dead at age 40, cause of death not officially announced
Former ADCC champion Orlando Sanchez has died at age 40, and as of press time no official cause of death has been announced. Sanchez died unexpectedly on December 15.
Sanchez’s longtime gym, Gracie Barra, confirmed the news in an Instagram post Friday:
“The news of the passing of Professor Orlando Sanchez profoundly saddens us. Thank you for being a great friend and one of our greatest athletes. You leave a legacy of toughness, kindness, and loyalty through your efforts as a competitor, professor, school owner, and regional leader. Thank you for sharing your knowledge with others and spreading the Jiu-Jitsu legacy worldwide. Rest in peace, Professor Orlando Sanchez. We will always remember you. The Gracie Barra team wishes comfort in the heart of his family and friends.”
The famed Brazilian jiu-jitsu competitor won the ADCC World Championship in 2015, the IBJJF World Championship in 2010, the IBJFF Pans Championship in 2012, and the CBJJ Brazilian Nationals in 2012. Sanchez competed in the Peso Pesadissimo (super heavyweight) weight class.
Sanchez also had a pro mixed martial arts record of 5-0-1.
He is survived by his wife and three children.
