Hey Haisam!

First of all, thank you so much for taking the time to answer our questions today. I also want to welcome you to the team. It’s great to have you as part of the Progress community, and we can’t wait to see what the rest of the year has in store for you. Everyone is super excited to have you as part of what we are doing and is looking forward to getting to know you better.

Getting to Know Haisam

Tell us a bit about yourself, how you got started in BJJ? What was the moment when you knew you would want to train, teach, and compete for a career?

After ADCC 2022, I was exposed to my weaknesses and really wanted to get better at the leg locks with the guidance of guys like Craig Jones and Nicky Ryan. Also, needed a crew that could help me get to that next level and B Team seemed to be a proper fit, so I visited in October 2022 to train for a few weeks and it was instant chemistry with all the team. I also like the city of Austin, so I reached out to Craig, and they accepted me with open hands, making the move in April 2023. Also, finding people close to my height and weight had been the struggle, but now at B Team, that is not an issue, and I think that is the major difference.

You are now in Texas with B Team, could you tell us a bit about your path to being a B Team member? Are there many differences to training/living in Japan compared to America?

After getting an invite to the last ADCC, there was a lot of doubt going into it. I was relatively unknown and a massive underdog. I had the feeling most people had already counted me out, and honestly, Cyborg was among the guys we were hoping to get in the first round. His style was really good for me, and everything went as planned. I saw the opportunity and took advantage. Man, it was the best high, and in that moment, I realized every struggle and sacrifice was truly worth it.

At the last ADCC, you landed one of the most spectacular finishes on the legend Cyborg. What was that moment like for you to land such an impressive submission on a true giant of the sport?

Blowing up like that comes with a lot of pressure, but I’m slowly stepping into the role and making some changes. Joining one of the top teams in the world and developing new strategies will take time, but I believe it’s going to be a fun year of comps. Stay tuned for more!

Since this is an ADCC year, has training changed much for you?

Yes, definitely more wrestling, and I’ll slowly be turning it up the closer it gets.

Is there any element of your grappling that you have been focusing on or evolving more since your switch to B-Team?

Yes, I’ve been really focusing on turning my weaknesses into strengths, and I can’t wait to start showcasing the Giraffe 2.0!

What competitions are coming up for you? Any big super fight announcements?

Not officially yet, but it looks like I’m going to be on the next UFC Fight Invitational, potentially in May or June.

Everyone loves this question... What does a cheat meal look like for you? Some nice Texas BBQ?

I gotta go with strawberry milkshake and onion rings!

Thank you again, Haisam, for answering our questions. Excited to see you back in action. Until next time, take care and speak soon!