Photo Credit: CFISDNews
Cy-Fair HS senior ranks as No. 1 Jiu-Jitsu athlete in the U.S.
By Hailey Lloyd, Cy-Fair High School Student, CFISD Journalism Network collaboration
Cy-Fair High School senior Eduard (Eddie) Pugachov won the gold medal at the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) Pan championships in Middle Weight Blue Belt division held March 19-23 in Kissimmee, Florida. He is currently ranked No. 1 in the nation.
Whether Pugachov is on the mat, in the classroom or leading by example as a coach to younger athletes, his drive is unmatched.
“He became number one the moment he won the tournament,” said Travis Tooke, coach and owner of Team Tooke Mixed Martial Arts. “It was a great feeling. Years of hard work led up to that moment. It wasn’t surprising to me. I know how good he is and how much effort he puts in both on and off the mat.”
Pugachov also balances wrestling along with Jiu-jitsu and his academics. While balancing both sports has been demanding, wrestling improved his physical conditioning and gave him an edge on the mat.
“Wrestling has improved my conditioning and taught me how to push through tough training,” Pugachov said. “It wasn’t just about takedowns, the grind helped build my endurance for both sports.”
Pugachov will compete at the 2025 World Jiu-Jitsu Championship scheduled for May 29-June 1 at the Walter Pyramid in Long Beach, California.
Source: CFISD
