Cobra Mansa's nicknames (Cobra Mansa meaning "tame snake" and Cobrinha translating to "little cobra" in Portuguese) are apt descriptions derived from Cobra Mansa's graceful and deceptive style of play. His ability to transform situations through the use of innovative and acrobatic solutions has made him arguably the most influential Angoleiro (practitioner of Capoeira Angola) of his generation. Never one to avoid the complexity of Capoeira Regional, he has traveled in many non-Angolan circles and done a great deal to help mend old disagreements between the two. His Capoeira continues to be respected and admired through both the Capoeira Angola and Capoeira Regional communities. He remains an inspiration to many younger Capoeiristas.
