Former Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and MMA Fighter, Antônio Rodrigo Nogueira or famously known as Minotauro (Big Nog) is holidaying at iconic Hard Rock Hotel Maldives.

One of the true legends in the sport of MMA, Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira, also known as “Minotauro” is considered by many as the best heavyweight who transitioned from Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) background to Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). With a prosperous career in BJJ in the late 1990’s, Minotauro turned to MMA, where he won over emblematic fighters such as UFC Hall of Fame Randy Couture & Mark Coleman as well as Josh Barnet, Dan Henderson, Mirko Filipovic, Tim Sylvia (just to name a few) and gave him world titles in the two top organizations in the World. During his reign, he was WEF heavyweight super-fight champion, 2000 Rings Kings of Kings Tournament Champion, Pride Heavy Weight Champion, Pride Interim Heavy Weight Champion and UFC Heavy Weight Champion. He is widely regarded as one of the best fighters and heavyweight artists in MMA history.

“It is truly an honor to welcome Minotauro to Hard Rock Hotel Maldives and to Red Mat Maldives. He is a living legend and a true inspiration to many people. Having him vacationing with us and visiting our Red Mat, with addition of signing our wall of fame as a bonus was indeed a special moment for us. Our setting in Hard Rock Hotel Maldives with Red Mat and our jiu-jitsu program, including affiliation with Checkmat Team creates the perfect vacation spot for athletes and fighters, who come and spend holidays with their families while having the opportunity to continue training in martial arts”. Said Tolga Unan, Managing Director, Hard Rock Hotel Maldives & The Marina @ CROSSROADS.

Located within CROSSROADS Maldives – the first integrated multi-island leisure destination in the country, Hard Rock Hotel Maldives is just a 15-minute boat ride from the airport. Inspired by local culture, tropical architecture is infused with contemporary design features alongside regionally inspired authentic music memorabilia.

Stunning views and legendary amenities take vacation at Hard Rock Hotel Maldives to the next level with 178 extravagant guestrooms, suites, villas and over water pool villas. Guests can also treat their taste buds to delectable on-site food and beverage options, ranging from a Pool Bar and Pan-Latin restaurant to authentic American cuisine, just steps from the hotel.

The hotel also offers direct access to The Marina @ CROSSROADS Maldives, where an array of shops and over 12 restaurants, all styled on the chic elegance of a European Riviera, await. From authentic American cuisine at Hard Rock Cafe to the acclaimed flavors of Ministry of Crab’s award-winning dishes and finely curated local specialties, the culinary offering sees a collision of cultures come together to offer an array of exotic international cuisines.

Hard Rock Hotel Maldives offers Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ) classes designed for adults and children of all levels led by certified coach Miguel Gomez. Many top-level fighters and martial art practitioners regularly visit Red Mat and chose Hard Rock as their preferred vacation spot.

To learn more about Hard Rock Hotel Maldives, visit www.hardrockhotels.com/maldives