09/21/2026
Today we celebrate an incredible and well-deserved honor.
We are proud to recognize Manuel “Manny” Flores for his induction into the Rage in the Cage Coach Appreciation Class of 2026, honoring his decades of dedication and contributions to combat sports.
Manny’s journey began with wrestling and continued through kickboxing, where he earned multiple championships—including an adult world championship at only 16. His path later expanded into boxing, MMA, Boxing and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Manny also competed inside Rage in the Cage, making this recognition especially meaningful. Today, however, he is being honored not simply for what he accomplished as an athlete, but for what he has given back as a coach and leader.
As a Jiu-Jitsu competitor, Manny earned medals at prestigious IBJJF events including the Pan American Championships, U.S. Nationals, and Masters Worlds.
But his greatest accomplishments aren’t measured by his own medals.
Through Daimyo Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Manny has worked to elevate Jiu-Jitsu in Southern Arizona and has helped develop athletes from little or no combat-sports experience into world, national, Pan American, and state champions.
That vision expanded with Last Warrior Standing Championship, creating another platform for Jiu-Jitsu athletes to showcase their abilities.
Alongside his wife, Brenda Soto, and their children, Yeshua and Elias, Manny has built more than an academy—a community centered on family, discipline, empowerment, and growth.
A coach’s legacy isn’t simply what he accomplishes. It’s what he helps others believe they can accomplish.
Congratulations, Coach Manny Flores, on this well-deserved recognition and a lifetime dedicated to combat sports, leadership, and developing others. ✨💫
