Issue 105
September 2013
Ana’s mother was a model, her father ran a judo club and her uncle played soccer with Pele. Need we say more?
STATISTICS
Age: 31
Stats: 32D-24-33
Height: five-foot-seven
Nationality: Brazilian and American
Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
Hi Ana; how does it feel to not only be getting your own feature in Fighters Only but to also have it showcased in our Brazil special?
“It feels amazing. I see the magazine in stores everywhere and always pick it up. I’ve dreamt of being featured in it for a long time. It was great to be told I’d be getting my own interview; I simply love it. To be featured in the Brazilian issue? This really is a dream come true for me.”
Tell our readers a little bit about yourself.
“I’m originally from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. I come from a family of fighters, soccer players and models. It’s all in my blood! I did a lot of modeling in Brazil, including print and runway. I also did extra work for soap operas in Brazil. It was a lot of fun to be on TV.”
You’ve also got some dancefloor skills, right?
“That’s right; I am also a professional dancer and have been very fortunate to have worked with many amazing artists like Charo, Lil Jon and Pitbull.”
Is it true that your father owned his own gym?
“Yeah, my father had his own judo gym in Copacabana, Rio. My uncle played for the Brazilian soccer club Santos alongside Pele. My mom and my aunt did extensive modeling in Brazil; my mother also won many pageants. My cousin owns a Carlson Gracie Team jiu-jitsu gym in Los Angeles, and my godson plays for LA Galaxy (youth league) in LA too. Like I said, it’s in my blood.”
What was it like growing up in Brazil?
“It was great. I was fortunate enough to have a good life. My parents had great jobs and were able to provide me with a great education. There are many in Brazil who are less fortunate and it saddens me. So I am very grateful that my folks were able to provide me with so much. I grew up enjoying the beautiful beaches in Rio and the amazing food; I think I miss the food the most! Let’s not forget the nightlife; I always have a ball when I go visit. They also have the best carnival in the world. Brazil is just way too much fun!”
So what is it about mixed martial arts that you love?
“I really love seeing all the styles of fighting coming together. It’s not just a street fight: it is technique, stamina and endurance. Plus, I love to scream at the screen whilst watching it at home. I’m also an ambassador for Combatives Gear, check them out!”
You have an amazing figure, what type of training goes into maintaining curves like yours?
“It’s mainly high intensity training, functional training, Pilates and weight lifting. But my nutrition is impeccable – 80% is nutrition. I have never done drugs and rarely drink. It keeps me healthy and fit.”
So what does the future hold for Ana Braga?
“To continue being featured in publications like Fighters Only. I’m also very passionate about writing and I actually write for two magazines now. I want to continue growing as a writer. My main goal is to be able to buy a house in Hawaii. But in the short term I would love to donate more time to animal causes: working as a volunteer in animal shelters and being able to adopt more animals.”
Where can fans keep up to date with what you are doing?
“I am aways interacting with fans via Twitter and Facebook, so check me out at @Sambadiva and facebook.com/Anabraga-model.”
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