Gabriel de Moraes Neto practices martial arts in a park in Nanning city, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, southern China, on July 4, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
Inspired by Bruce Lee's kung fu at a young age, Gabriel became interested in Chinese martial arts and began systematic training in 1999. As his understanding of martial arts and traditional Chinese culture deepened, he named himself “Mo Xiaolong” after Bruce Lee's Chinese name, “Li Xiaolong”.
In 2008, Gabriel came to Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine as an exchange student, learning acupuncture while practicing martial arts. For him, kung fu embodies Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and physical fitness, and represents his fascination with Chinese culture.
After completing his studies, Gabriel returned to Brazil and opened a school specializing in Kung Fu training and acupuncture courses.
In 2011, Gabriel returned to China and met his soul mate in Nanning, and they were married the following year in Brazil. In 2016, Gabriel and his wife returned to Nanning, and he decided to stay and work in China. Soon after his return, Gabriel was introduced to local martial arts master Cai Rongkun, who became a coach at a local martial arts club.
In his spare time, Gabriel enjoys cycling, Chinese tea and calligraphy, while also learning medical skills from a local TCM practitioner. He shares his insights into martial arts and TCM culture on his social media accounts, which have attracted many followers from around the world. “Chinese traditional culture is truly fascinating and I plan to continue learning,” Gabriel said.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Brazil. As a Brazilian, Gabriel aims to serve as a cultural ambassador to promote China's rich traditions among Brazilians while deepening understanding between the two countries.
