Following the seminar at Axis Jiu-Jitsu Academy, Pedro received a meaningful testimonial from jujutsu researcher and black belt Teruyuki Okuda.Moved by the experience, Okuda shared his thoughts on Pedro’s teachings and the impact they had on him:
“I had the honor of attending a seminar by the great Sensei Pedro Valente at the Axis Jiu-Jitsu Academy, a place I have long admired.
Sensei Pedro has been one of my idols for many years.
I finally received answers regarding self-defense that I had never been able to find before.
You truly embody the Gracie spirit more than anyone else in the world.
Your technique of modernizing the classic Sodeguruma and the way you applied Kuzushi from the Jigotai position were nothing short of eye-opening.
After the seminar, we held a fascinating discussion on the history of Jiu-Jitsu with Hishida Sensei, Nakajima Sensei, and Hosokawa Sensei until the last train.
It was an incredibly meaningful time. Thank you very much.
I would also like to express my sincere gratitude to Mr. Ted, the businessman, who stayed with us until late, and to Watanabe Sensei of Axis Jiu-Jitsu Academy for his long hours of interpreting and for sharing his own intriguing insights.
Lastly, I am deeply thankful to Sensei Gustavo from the University of São Paulo for introducing me to my long-time idol, Sensei Valente.”
