“One Person Who Definitely Doesn’t Get Enough Credit…”- BJJ GOAT Gordon Ryan Lays Bare His Feelings in a Wholesome Message to His Partner

Amid the ups and downs of life, there is always that one person who stands by you. They remain thick and thin no matter how many punches life pulls, and they are also the first to celebrate the small victories. BJJ GOAT Gordon Ryan is lucky to have one such person who has contributed to his success and happiness both on and off the mat.

‘The King’ has amassed unparalleled accolades in the grappling world with his five ADCC titles and two IBJJF No-Gi championships. While his grappling skills and hard work are lauded, his partner rarely finds a mention. The 28-year-old surely boasts an illustrious resume. But his knight in shining armor, Nathalia Santoro, is his biggest treasure, and he feels there is some credit due.

Gordon Ryan pens a heartfelt message for Nathalia Santoro

The American grappler turned to his Instagram handle and shared a picture of him along with his love of life. He penned a special note for ‘Sonny’ to acknowledge her efforts and the role she played in his successful career.

“There are many people and things in my life that the public gives credit to for my success, and they’re usually right, but one person who definitely doesn’t get enough credit is @notheysonny,” Ryan wrote. “She doesn’t ask for credit, she doesn’t complain, and she always puts me first.”

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Following this, Ryan expressed that they supported each other in every endeavor and in every way possible. He declared, “We support each other in every way imaginable, and both know what we signed up for. I am very lucky to have someone in my personal life who can help access the board, both on and off the mats. Thanks for being you, Sonny.”

Meet Nathalia Santoro: Gordon Ryan’s partner

The fans must have noticed Santoro on the Monroe native’s active Instagram handle. She is a Brazilian fitness model, bodybuilder, and, like Ryan, a BJJ competitor. Further, she hails from Sao Paulo, Brazil, and currently lives with Ryan in Austin. Interestingly, her Instagram bio reveals she is a “proud housewife,” thus suggesting they have already tied the knot.

Her knack for fitness started with sports like soccer before she moved to New York. She also participated in and won tournaments, including Garota Fitness Sao Paulo and Miss Brazil. However, it was during her training days in 2016 at Renzo Gracie’s headquarters that she first met Ryan. They immediately fell in love, despite her being 7 years older than him.

Moreover, the lovely couple are often seen training together. Santoro even received her brown belt in BJJ last year from John Danaher. She has been with Ryan and Danaher since the early days of the Death Squad and the start of New Wave Jiu-Jitsu. Most recently, the pair also trained with UFC champion Jon Jones ahead of his fight against Stipe Miocic at UFC 295.

What do you make of this special note by Gordon Ryan? Let us know in the comments below.

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