It's Science: Rafael Mendes
Welcome to another episode of “It’s Science”. We continue our 2013 season with a quick look at Rafael Mendes (2012-2013). Now on to the fun stuff…
Abstract: All matches observed of Rafael Mendes used in this small sample occurred at IBJJF events, inside his weight division, and between 2012-2013. Only techniques, occurrences, and outcomes that were recorded are displayed in the data below (i.e. if no butterfly sweeps occurred, there will not be a representation of that in the sample data). Matches were selected at random based on available matches – selected using a random generator from 20 total available IBJJF matches matches between 2012-2013. This is a limited sample – but given the estimated amount of matches in this time period – it is well above the percentage necessary to create a scientifically validated trend sampling.
So what did we learn?: Rafael Mendes proved to be the most dominant and proficient competitor we have ever observed during his 2012-2013 performances. His game is very defined, and he is able to get into it with little resistance. This is largely due to the fact that he can play his De La Riva guard game whether he pulls guard or his opponent double-guard pulls along with him. 75% of his sweeps came from a De La Riva variantion, but most would be defined as the berimbolo technique. He used this position very effectively to take the back. From the back he was incredibly efficient – which is where he secured nearly 50% of his overall submissions. When it came to submissions, he seemed to prefer armlocks. Over half of all his submissions observed were armlocks. However; he showed even less variety when it came to his passing game. Rafael Mendes obviouslt prefers to pass the guard one way, and he doesn’t care if you know it or not. He leg drag passes from every position. Again he uses this position to setup back-takes and armlocks. there is an incredible fluidity to his game that is both dangerous and beautiful – which is why his match average less than 5 minutes in time. Overall, he is a very dangerous opponent, and deserves close observation. He is quickly defining a strategic blueprint for what an undefeated season looks like.
Notable Stats:
- Won 80% of his matches by submission
- Average match length was only 4.53 minutes long
- Only scored upon 3 times in entire study
- Scored first in 12 out of 15 matches recorded (In the 3 that he didn’t, it was because he submitted his opponent prior to a first score)
- 85% of passes were leg drag variations
- Approximately 57% of his submissions were armlocks
- 75% of his sweeps came from De La Riva guard