Senegal has celebrated a remarkable sporting achievement as Pierre Laurent, widely known as “Dadou,” claimed the Brazilian jiu-jitsu world title in the super heavyweight division at the age of 65.
The victory has brought international recognition to his club, BOKK Olympique de Dakar, and highlighted the power of dedication and resilience.
Born in France but having lived in Senegal for over four decades, Dadou faced opponents often heavier than his 91 kg frame, relying on agility, strategic planning, and ground control to secure victory.
He won the semi-final with a precise game plan, controlling distance and the mat, before exploiting his opponent’s takedown in the final. “At my age, you don’t come looking for a place of honor, you come to win,” he said after the triumph.
Dadou’s achievement adds to an already impressive career, having previously claimed titles in Europe and North America, making him one of the few athletes to hold continental and global titles simultaneously.
His success underscores not only his personal skill but also the training environment at BOKK Olympique, which he describes as a “school of life.”
The club, led by three expert coaches—Tapha, a ground specialist; Boubacar, a former judoka; and Lamine, a technical instructor—hosts around thirty participants per session and fosters discipline, technical excellence, and perseverance.
Beyond the mat, Pierre Laurent balances family life as a husband, father, and grandfather, alongside his professional role as a manager at the Terrou-Bi Hotel. For his peers and students, his world championship represents a model of lifelong commitment and determination.
Dadou’s victory has become a symbol of possibility, illustrating that age is not a barrier to achievement in sports. His journey from local competitor to global champion offers inspiration for athletes and enthusiasts alike, reaffirming Senegal’s growing prominence in international martial arts. The Dakar Olympic club now stands as a testament to the values of passion, discipline, and the enduring spirit of competition.
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