Yago “Codorninha” Bryan heads into ONE: GLOBAL SUPERHEROES looking to rediscover his form, and make a statement in the ONE Championship strawweight division.Bryan takes on Japanese Grachan flyweight champion Hayato Suzuki at the Mall Of Asia Arena in Manila, Philippines, and the Brazilian is remarkably relaxed, despite a disappointing run of results.“I do not put any pressure on myself. I like to compete comfortably,” the 25-year-old says. “I am looking forward to the victory. I intend to put on a good match and leave the fans happy.”Bryan’s relaxed nature can be traced back to his roots, when he decided that he wanted to compete as a martial artist for a living after watching videos of early martial arts tournaments. Now he’s living that dream, he’s happy with his lot in life.“At the age of 13, I was introduced to the world of martial arts,” he says. “I was watching these videos, and when I arrived at school, I wanted to do the same moves they were doing. I was very troublesome at school.”That trouble could have seen him strongly disciplined by his parents, but rather than chastise the youngster, they looked to help him find an outlet – martial arts.“I was unruly,” he admits. “I was fighting at home and on the streets, and martial arts changed my life, because since I started training, I did not get involved in fights anymore. I started to get good grades and be calm.”As a Rio boy, he didn’t have to look far for inspiration, with many of the athletes he’d watched on those early VHS cassettes actually living and training in the same city.Bryan’s head coach Angelo Sergio eventually connected Bryan with his childhood heroes when he introduced him to legendary head coach of the Nova Uniāo gym, Andre Pederneiras.“I spoke with my coach, and I let him know about my dream to compete for the Nova Uniāo team, and he helped me out,” Bryan explains. “Dedé [Pederneiras] is like a father to me. Everything I need, he always helps me.”
Meet Bryan “Codorninha” – the Brazilian strawweight on a quest to turn his ONE Championship losses into glorious wins
After polishing his craft under the guidance of Pederneiras, Bryan captured the Shooto South American Strawweight Title in December 2014. That victory opened the door to ONE Championship in 2015, but the transition was anything but smooth.
Three Times in the Cage, Zero Victories, but a Fire Still Burning
- Dejdamrong Sor Amnuaysirichoke – former ONE Strawweight World Champion who handed Bryan his first setback.
- Gianni Subba – the Malaysian challenger who out‑matched Bryan and earned his respect.
- Roy Doliguez – another former title‑challenger who knocked Bryan out.
Despite the past three defeats, Bryan says he’s feeling encouraged. “My first and last fights shouldn’t be counted as losses,” he muses, “and if Gianni’s given me a win that I deserved, I forge ahead. The new year, new CODEGREEN (Codorninha, for short), and all fans are set for thrilling shows.”
Upcoming Duel: Bryan vs. Veteran Suzuki
Suzuki has come back after losing his first professional bout to ONE champion Alex Silva. He’s a seasoned martial artist, and Bryan’s training has sharpened his confidence.
- Strategic Play: Bryan says, “Whether it’s on the feet or in the clinch, I’m ready. Suzuki’s experience doesn’t scare me.”
- Finish Point: “I won’t let this fight go to the judges. I’ll finish him,” adds the Brazilian with determination.
- Roy Doliguez Rematch Dream: A victory over Suzuki could be the gateway to a rematch with the man who snapped him earlier.
As the weekend approaches, fans can expect a brand‑new showdown where honesty, heart, and a touch of humor could see Bryan turn his record from a string of missings into a triumphant chapter.
