रोडियन “द रिडीमर” मेंचावेज़

The Philippines’ Rodian Menchavez grew up in tragically impoverished circumstances, with his parents even having to forage from the forest to feed their five children. Eventually, Menchavez went to live with his uncle and aunt, where he would pump and deliver water to earn some money. While it was hard work, he grew increasingly stronger, both physically and mentally.

Menchavez would soon turn his attention to the martial arts, first starting with boxing due to its local popularity, but switching to Muay Thai after being amazed at the variety of techniques available while sparring. After years of training, he happened to see mixed martial arts on television, and was immediately enthralled.

He then began training with the Wrestling Association of the Philippines in hopes of competing in the cage, before linking up with famed wushu world champion Rene Catalan at Catalan Fighting Systems. In pursuit of knowledge, Menchavez even spent an extended period in San Pedro at Brownhouse MMA, where he practically lived in the gym to train with Ariel Oliveros and the Checkmat Jiu-Jitsu Philippines team before returning to Manila.