Igor Tanabe was born on May 9, 2000, in São Paulo, Brazil, into a family with deep Brazilian-Japanese heritage. In January 2004, his family relocated to Japan, integrating into the country's vibrant Brazilian-Japanese community. Initially passionate about football (soccer), Tanabe's trajectory shifted in 2007 when he and his father visited Gabriel Shibuya’s jiu-jitsu academy, where his uncle trained. This pivotal introduction marked the start of Tanabe’s journey in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The entire Tanabe family embraced the sport, training together and cultivating a supportive environment that would prove instrumental in Igor’s early development.

Foundational Training and Influences

Tanabe’s technical foundation was established under Gabriel Shibuya. When Shibuya returned to Brazil, Tanabe continued his progression under the mentorship of his father, Rafael Guimarães, and Walter Franco. Both played crucial roles in his advancement, guiding him through the blue and purple belt ranks. During this period, Tanabe met Ingrid Franco—his future wife—as both participated in the academy’s kids’ classes, further strengthening his connection to the sport.

Competitive Growth and Key Mentorships

As Tanabe’s competitive ambitions intensified, he forged a significant training relationship with Eduardo Telles at Nine-Nine (99 BJJ), a partnership initiated during his competition trips to the United States. Telles and Walter Franco would later promote Tanabe to brown and black belt, with his black belt awarded in May 2020. Throughout his colored belt career, Tanabe distinguished himself as a top prospect in gi jiu-jitsu, capturing major titles at events such as the 2018 IBJJF World Championship (Purple Belt), 2018 IBJJF World No-Gi Championship (Purple Belt), and the 2017 IBJJF European Open (Purple Belt). His technical style emphasized dynamic guard work, innovative transitions, and a relentless pursuit of submission.

Move to Mixed Martial Arts

During the COVID-19 pandemic, with limited jiu-jitsu events in Japan and his family expecting a child, Tanabe made the strategic decision to transition to mixed martial arts. He began his professional MMA career in 2021, competing across the welterweight, middleweight, and light heavyweight divisions. Tanabe maintained an undefeated record, securing five consecutive victories—including three first-round finishes—under the RIZIN banner.

Notable Victories and Grappling Achievements

Tanabe’s MMA run featured a first-round submission over UFC veteran Shinsho Anzai at RIZIN 45 (2023), a heel hook victory against Daichi Abe in mid-2023, and a rapid submission of Melvin Manhoef at INOKI BOM-BA-YE 2022. His grappling acumen translated seamlessly to MMA, where he consistently imposed his ground game and submission threats. Parallel to his MMA pursuits, Tanabe continued to compete in elite grappling events, notably submitting Tommy Langaker at Polaris November 2021, further cementing his reputation as a versatile and dangerous competitor.

Diagnosis and Hiatus

In December 2024, Tanabe received a diagnosis of moyamoya disease, a rare progressive cerebrovascular disorder, following an MRI. The associated risks of head trauma and weight cutting prompted him to step away from competitive martial arts for an indefinite period. Despite this significant setback, Tanabe publicly expressed his determination to recover and return to competition, demonstrating resilience and optimism in the face of adversity.

Commitment to Recovery and the Sport

As of early 2025, Tanabe decided to return to competitive grappling, prioritizing his health and longevity while continuing to contribute to the sport. His journey reflects not only technical mastery but also unwavering dedication and adaptability, inspiring both peers and aspiring athletes within the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and MMA communities.