In September 2015, Brazilian MMA fighter Monique Bastos gained international attention when she used her Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) skills to stop a robbery attempt in her hometown of Açailandia, in the Maranhão state of Brazil. The incident was both extraordinary and widely publicized, further solidifying BJJ as an effective tool for self-defense.
The Incident
Monique Bastos was on her way to a training session when two men approached her on a motorcycle, intending to rob her and others nearby. One of the men demanded their belongings, including phones. Little did the robbers know that they were targeting an MMA fighter skilled in grappling and submissions.
Bastos immediately recognized an opportunity to defend herself. When the robbers tried to flee, she acted swiftly. Using her experience and reflexes, she tackled one of the men off the motorcycle, while the other managed to escape.
The Triangle Choke
With the man now grounded, Bastos transitioned into a dominant position and locked in a triangle choke—a classic BJJ submission technique where the attacker’s neck and one arm are trapped between the defender’s legs. This move restricts blood flow to the brain, incapacitating the opponent without causing permanent harm.
While holding the robber in the chokehold, Bastos remained remarkably calm, even as the man pleaded for her to release him. The video, recorded by bystanders, captured her composed demeanor throughout the ordeal. She kept the man immobilized until the police arrived to arrest him.
Monique Bastos’ Statement
In an interview following the incident, Bastos said:
> “I’ve been through this a few times before, and it’s the second time I fought back. Since he wasn’t armed, I knew I could stop him.”
Her confidence and quick thinking were evident, as she had assessed the situation and determined the assailant wasn’t carrying a weapon before acting.
Impact of the Event
The incident went viral, with the video being widely shared on social media and news outlets. Bastos was praised for her bravery and skill, and the story highlighted the importance of self-defense training, particularly for women.
The video showcased the practical application of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, emphasizing how martial arts can empower individuals to protect themselves in real-life situations.
