[5] He trained under Alvaro and Krauss Monsor who was the student of 9th degree black belt master Francisco Mansor.

Two years later, together with Rafael Barbosa, Leandro Escobar and his brother Bruno Mendes they founded Soul Fighters gym in 2008.

[1] Mendes started his professional mixed martial arts career in April 2014 after just one win in an amateur fight.

[19] On June 8, 2018, it was reported that Mendes who had one fight with UFC, was granted release after USADA suspension, and joined Absolute Championship Berkut (ACB).

[20] Mendes competed in Absolute Championship Berkut 6: Jiu Jitsu no-gi (145 Ibs) grand prix tournament on July 16, 2017, in Moscow.Competitors in the division included Paulo Miyao, Leo Vieira, Isaque Paiva, Osvaldo Moizinho, Kim Terra, Gabriel Marangoni and Rafael Mansur.

[23][24] Mendes competed in Absolute Championship Berkut 9: Jiu Jitsu no-gi 60 kg Grand Prix tournament on December 9, 2017, in Moscow.

[31] Prior relocating to United States, Mendes taught BJJ at Tijuca Tenis Club as the head instructor.