If to get in a Vale-Tudo ring being 100% physically is already very hard, what about going there having Leukemia, in an advanced stage? "I didn’t even have the strength to warm up," remembers the author of the exploit, the Brazilian Magno Penha who obviously didn’t know about his illness when he was invited by Sérgio Batarelli to fight in the Ultimate Combat, held in July of last year, in Salt Lake City, USA. "I thought that the tiredness that I had been feeling in the previous weeks was a result from the steroids that I had been using since 1995," said the runner-up of IVC 13.

Even in his fatigued condition, Penha entered the ring to face American fighter John Mokiao. "Right after the fight started, I saw that I didn’t have the physical condition to fight. In a few seconds the guy took me down, passed my guard and got a leg lock, I was able defend it, but then he got my arm. The crowd was yelling, ‘break it!’ and I got power from I don’t know where and defended. Then I passed his guard and got the mount. I was totally exhausted so I faked a punch, he raised his arm to defend and I submitted him with an arm-bar. It was a God thing," remembers the athlete that passed out and left the ring with an oxygen mask.

I first want to send my condolences to all those affected by the terrible act of violence on our country, including some of my very close and personal friends. Honestly, the last thing on my mind [Tuesday] was Grapplers Quest’s National Championships in Harlem, New York which is supposed to take place in just [7 days].

I composed myself after [Tuesday’s] trauma and decided to do my due diligence with ensuring I could update all my competitors, supporters, and specators as soon as possible. I followed up with The City College of New York and they said everything is OK at the venue and we can proceed as planned for Septemebr 23^rd, 2001. Terrorist attacks cannot stop America’s spirit or way of life and we must continue to show the world why we are the most powerful nation.

Along these lines…I am proud to say that The Grapplers Quest National Championships scheduled for Sunday, September 23^rd will proceed as planned. The tournament will also serve as a friendly gathering and memorial for those lost. We will have a moment of silence and a special singing of the National Anthem in honor of freedom and those lost.

I will see you all a week from [today], as planned. We will unite and triumph together!

Sincerely,
Brian Cimins
President and Founder
Grapplers Quest