Andre ‘Dida’ Amade and Brother Mauricio Veio Lucky to Be Alive Following Shooting in Toronto Last Month

(Dida demonstrating the importance of good head movement.)

A shooting that took place a few weeks ago outside of a popular MMA gym in Toronto came very close to ending the life of K-1 and DREAM standout Andre Amade.

Both Dida and his brother Mauricio Veio were getting into the vehicle of a student to catch a ride home after class on the afternoon of October 20 when a gunman shot two rounds into the back seat of the SUV they were sitting in.

The popular trainer of UFC light heavyweight champion Mauricio “Shogun” Rua was grazed on the back of the head by one of the bullets while another student who was sitting beside him in the vehicle was hit in the arm.

Fortunately both men survived.

In spite of the ten staples he required to close the gash, Dida, who has since opened his own gym in Toronto is still planning to compete on Monday’s K-1 Max card against Hinata.

Here’s the story from PortaldoValeTudo.com:

The tattoo Andre Dida carries in his left arm – Divine Protection – took effect last Oct. 20. After one of his training for his fight in K-1 MAX, Dida and his brother Mauricio came to accept a ride from a student at the academy where he taught in Canada.

By the time they were getting into the car, a shooting happened in front of the academy. Dida and a student who, like himself, was in the back seat, ended up being hit by gunfire.

The bullet grazed the back of his head, causing a cut that was closed with 10 points. In just three days, the leader of Evolution Thai back in training, even with the stitches in his head, he intends not to cancel his match, scheduled for 08 November, against the Japanese Hinata.

For everyone who supports me, rest assured because I am well trained and will give my best to represent Brazil and people that support me. The fact that occurred did not remove me from my goal, only made me stronger. I thank God for being alive and for allowing me to continue my path, “said Dida.

According to police, the shooting was likely targeted, but there has been no word as to whether or not the vehicle was the target or if it was simply a case of being in the wrong place at the wrong time.