Champion belt and medal haul for Andrew Perez

Andrew Perez with his champion belt

Andrew Perez earned a champion belt and three medals at the North American Grappling Association (NAGA) in Germany on Saturday 11 November.

The Holy Family pupil landed two gold medals and a bronze medal in an advance category in age and weight at the Kreissporthalle Sports Complex in Limburg an der Lahn.

He fought in four different categories in gi and no gi against tough opponents from France, Moldova, Russia, Romania and Germany.

The North American Grappling Association (NAGA) is the world’s largest mixed grappling tournament circuit with over 750,000 competitors worldwide.

Andrew was pleased with his performance and display of techniques, and was humbled to bring back home the champion belt.

Andrew’s dad, Carlos Perez, said: “We want to thank his sponsors RAINE Clothing Ltd, Grapple Soap and The Recovery Room for all the support, and also the support received from our local councillors Rachel Massey and the former Rochdale mayor Ali Ahmed.

“We’re currently looking for sponsorship for Andrew as he’s fighting at a higher level travelling over the world to represent his community and the UK. If any local or national business would like to offer sponsorship or support for Andrew, please feel free to get in touch.”

Andrew will be representing Rochdale again during the weekend of 18 November when he competes at the Copa Kimura Madrid championships in Spain.

Carlos added: “We would like to thank Andrew’s coaches for being part of such a great but intense journey to get Andrew to this high level; Gavin, Gaz, Ashley and all the coaches and teammates at Predators MMA Academy. 

“We are extremely proud of Andrew and can’t wait to see what the future brings to him from now on.”