Silvino Riverol: A Belizean Jiu-Jitsu Pioneer

Silvino Riverol: A Belizean Jiu-Jitsu Pioneer

• Juan Card
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In a groundbreaking moment for Belizean martial arts, Silvino Riverol has become the first Belizean-born and Belizean-resident to achieve a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). This milestone, celebrated on Friday, December 13, 2024, represents a new era for martial arts in Belize and serves as a testament to Silvino’s unwavering dedication to his craft and his community.

Under the mentorship of Professor Jeremy Mahon, a renowned Jiu-Jitsu black belt and coach at the War Training Center in Tomball, Texas, Silvino earned this prestigious rank. Reflecting on the moment, he shared, “Friday 13th, 2024, will forever be one of the greatest days of my life. I earned my black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Professor Jeremy Mahon, and I’m truly honored to now be part of this elite group of Gorillas/Professors.”

More Than Just a Belt

For all that Silvino has accomplished, I believe a black belt alone doesn’t fully honor the scope of his contributions. His impact on the lives of countless Belizeans—mentoring fighters, building a platform for martial artists to compete, and uniting the local martial arts community—is immeasurable. Silvino deserves more than a black belt; he deserves recognition as a true pioneer and leader whose vision has forever changed Belizean martial arts.

A Leader and Innovator

Silvino is more than an exceptional athlete—he is a driving force behind the growth of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, MMA, and other combat sports in Belize.

Key Contributions:

• Founder of ProFC Belize: As the founder of ProFC Belize, Silvino created one of the first and most prominent MMA promotions in Belize and Central America, giving fighters a professional platform to showcase their skills.
• Creator of the Grapple League: Silvino established Belize’s first Grapple League, providing opportunities for grapplers across the country to compete and develop.
• Mentor and Champion-Maker: Silvino has mentored fighters like Jaylen, who has become a ProFC double champion at 135 and 145 pounds, and Thomas, the ProFC 170-pound champion and a Central American sub-champion.
• Multidisciplinary Influence: Beyond Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Silvino’s leadership extends to kickboxing, boxing, judo, and wrestling, showcasing his passion for developing combat sports holistically.

A Legacy of Impact

What sets Silvino apart is the profound respect and admiration he has earned from the martial arts community in Belize and beyond. He has not only built champions but also inspired a generation to pursue discipline, perseverance, and excellence. His impact reaches far beyond competition—it’s about the lives he has transformed.

Why “General”?

I refer to Silvino as “General” as a mark of the respect and authority he commands in the Belizean martial arts community. His leadership, vision, and ability to rally people together embody the qualities of a true general—a title that suits his pioneering spirit.

A Milestone Worth Celebrating

Silvino Riverol’s journey to earning a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a momentous achievement. However, his legacy is so much more than this single milestone. His influence as a leader, mentor, and innovator continues to shape the martial arts landscape in Belize, and his contributions will be felt for generations to come.

Congratulations to General Silvino Riverol—a true pioneer and hero of Belizean martial arts.