“We’re so close on so many levels”- Cole Abate credits professor Gui Mendes for his success on the world stage

20-year-old Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt world champion 'Ice' Cole Abate of the United States is one of the most accomplished grapplers his age in the world today.

At just 20, Abate has already claimed an IBJJ black belt world title, as well as his first victory in ONE Championship, the world's largest martial arts organization.

One man he wants to give credit to is none other than his professor, Guiherme Mendes.

After his most recent accomplishments in the gentle art, Abate gave credit where it was due, and shared what his first conversation with professor Mendes was like.

'Ice' Cole said on Instagram:

"First thing I said was ‘Don’t get too happy because we’re gonna have many more times like this.’ And he said, ‘I know for sure.’ Man, we’re so close on so many levels. He’s, of course, the most dedicated professor that you’d find, but off the mats, man, he’s my buddy. He’s my best friend. He helps me with everything off the mats and he’s able to balance that relationship between professor, mentor, and friend."

Professor Mendes can be very tough on his students, but Abate appreciates the pressure because it has turned him into a diamond in the rough.

---

Cole Abate wants more people to train in BJJ for a better life: "I want them to be happy"

'Ice' Cole Abate says that anyone can hit the mats and do what he does, they just have to give it time and effort.

The 20-year-old said on Instagram:

"So when people see me, I want them to be happy for my achievement, I want them to be happy for the medal, but I want them to look at it and say, ‘Hey, he did it at 20 years old, why can’t I do it by 20 years old or even sooner?’ I want people to see it, be able to take action by it, and man."

Stay tuned to Sportskeeda MMA for all the latest news and updates surrounding Cole Abate's next fight.