Cassio Francis

Cassio Francis, commonly known as “Cassão” is a Brazilian jiu jitsu black belt under Vinícius “Draculino” Magalhães, being one of the strongest heavyweight competitors produced by the famous Gracie Barra instructor. Francis is also a great example of a persevering mind: In 2011 Francis was told he would never be able to compete again due to a spinal injury. Overcoming the odds, Cassio returned to the sport two years later as strong as ever, regaining his spot as a contender in the heavyweight division.

Cassio Francis Jiu Jitsu

Full Name: Cássio Francis da Silva

Nickname: “Cassão” which means Big Cassio in Portuguese jargon. The name coming obviously from Francis’ impressive physique.

Lineage: Carlos Gracie Sr. > Helio Gracie > Carlos Gracie Jr > Vinicius Magalhães > Cassio Francis

Main Achievements:

• Pan American Championship (2016)
• Brazilian National Champion (2014/2015)
• Brazilian National No-Gi Champion (2009 brown, 2014/2015)
• South American Champion (2010 brown, 2013)
• Rio International Open Champion (2014)
• Rio Summer Open Champion (2016 absolute)
• European Open Championship Runner-up (2009 brown)
• South American Championship Runner-up (2009 brown)
• Brazilian National Championship Runner-up (2010 brown)
• Brazilian National No-Gi Championship Runner-up (2009 brown absolute)
• Rio Summer Open Championship Runner-up (2016)
• Rio International Open 3rd Runner-up (2008 purple, 2009 brown)
• World Championship 3rd Place (2016)
• Pan American Championship 3rd Place (2010 brown)
• Brazilian National Championship 3rd Place (2011/2016)

Favorite Position/Technique: Wristlock

Weight Division: Peso Pesado (94kg/207lbs)

Team/Association: Gracie Barra BH

Casio Francis Biography

Cassio Francis was born on the June 18, 1983 in Belo Horizonte – state of Minas Gerais, Brazil.

Francis was drawn to jiu jitsu as a teenager by watching Royce Gracie fight in the UFC. Cassio was skinny as a child and related to the Gracie’s physique when competing against bigger opponents. At 19 years of age Cassão finally stepped on the mats for the first time, joining the class of Vinícius Magalhães, the famous “Draculino”.

All of Cassio’s belt promotions were handed by Draculino, the black belt occurring on the 21st of December, 2010.

What looked like a promising jiu jitsu career almost came to a full stop in 2011 when Cassio’s doctors found 3 herniated discs in his lower back (L3 – L4, L4 – L5 and in between L5 and S1). An injury caused by Francis’ intense weight lifting regime.

Although two doctors distinct doctors told Cassio his career was over, he did not accept their decision, taking two years off competition to heal his spine and phase back into training. Once returned to the international jiu jitsu circuit in late 2013, Francis picked up where he left off with incredible performances, making himself one of the tougher names in the heavyweight division and conquering numerous important medals.

Cassio Francis vs Alex Silva

Cassio Francis vs Petronio Batista