José Aldo distributes Flamengo gifts at the Maré Complex
MMA World Champion, Rubro-Negro athlete gave children backpacks and lunchboxes
By From Flamengo's Official Website - in
Overcoming difficulties with persistence and dedication. This was and continues to be the life of José Aldo. A World MMA Champion, the Flamengo fighter served as a role model for the kids of Vila Olímpica da Maré, in the Maré Complex, in Rio de Janeiro's North Zone. A sports icon, the UFC featherweight belt holder once again experienced a familiar landscape. Only this time, his role was that of an idol.
The Flamengo star distributed 100 backpacks and 100 lunchboxes, licensed by the company Xeryus in conjunction with Flamengo, to the children. He also shared his experience in the pursuit of his dreams. José Aldo was born in Manaus, Amazonas, and left a poor neighborhood to try his luck in Rio de Janeiro. Always connected to sports, the fighter dreamed of playing soccer, but ended up finding fulfillment in the world of fighting and came to the Marvelous City in search of more opportunities. However, he struggled and worked hard before becoming the great champion, known worldwide.
"I'm very happy to be here. I believe in opportunity for everyone. Just as I became a champion despite the difficulties I faced in life, I know these children can succeed too," he said, noting that he believes in dreams and that discipline is essential to becoming a winner.
"You can look up to me. Obey your parents, your teachers, and you too will be victorious in both sports and life."
Enzo Dantas, nine years old, goalkeeper for the local futsal team, was one of the children who received gifts and was moved to see one of his idols up close.
"I really like MMA; I watch it every Saturday night! I never imagined I'd see José Aldo here, especially wearing a Flamengo jersey and carrying backpacks for us. I'm going to use them at school tomorrow," he revealed.
In addition to distributing gifts, the fighter answered questions from children, took photos, signed autographs and even taught some fighting moves.
The Flamengo star distributed 100 backpacks and 100 lunchboxes, licensed by the company Xeryus in conjunction with Flamengo, to the children. He also shared his experience in the pursuit of his dreams. José Aldo was born in Manaus, Amazonas, and left a poor neighborhood to try his luck in Rio de Janeiro. Always connected to sports, the fighter dreamed of playing soccer, but ended up finding fulfillment in the world of fighting and came to the Marvelous City in search of more opportunities. However, he struggled and worked hard before becoming the great champion, known worldwide.
"I'm very happy to be here. I believe in opportunity for everyone. Just as I became a champion despite the difficulties I faced in life, I know these children can succeed too," he said, noting that he believes in dreams and that discipline is essential to becoming a winner.
"You can look up to me. Obey your parents, your teachers, and you too will be victorious in both sports and life."
Enzo Dantas, nine years old, goalkeeper for the local futsal team, was one of the children who received gifts and was moved to see one of his idols up close.
"I really like MMA; I watch it every Saturday night! I never imagined I'd see José Aldo here, especially wearing a Flamengo jersey and carrying backpacks for us. I'm going to use them at school tomorrow," he revealed.
In addition to distributing gifts, the fighter answered questions from children, took photos, signed autographs and even taught some fighting moves.