The incredible story of Júlio Mamute: the man who lost 100 kilos and today is an ambassador for the European marathon

By William Varela

Sport has proven once again that it is a stage where limits are transformed into inspiring stories. On this occasion, the protagonist is Júlio Mamute, a 35-year-old Brazilian influencer who has captured the world's attention after completing the European Marathon in Aveiro, Portugal. This event not only marked a personal milestone, but also highlighted her incredible journey of physical and emotional transformation.

A journey that began in Brazil

Originally from Recife, in the northeast of Brazil, Mamute began his journey towards change when his weight reached 300 kilos. In statements reported by G1, the Brazilian news portal of the Globo group, he described how swimming became his lifeline. "My marathon is not a race. It started when I weighed 300 kilos. Swimming saved me. It was in the water, with prudence and strategy, that I lost 100 kilos," he stated.

His decision to participate in street tests came after his participation in the São Silvestre Race in São Paulo, last December. This event was a turning point as it gave him the confidence to face new challenges. "The doors opened after São Silvestre. It was a moment when I challenged myself to something extreme and I achieved it. That gave me confidence to continue," Mamute explained.

European Marathon Ambassador

For the 2026 edition of the European Marathon, Mamute was summoned as the official ambassador of the event. He completed the 10 kilometers at his own pace, mainly walking with the help of a cane, demonstrating his philosophy of respecting the limits of the body. "I'm not a marathoner. I'm the 200 kilo guy from Recife, who weighed more than 300 and has already lost more than 100. Today I'm participating in six marathons around the world in less than 60 days," he declared after crossing the finish line.

During the race, a moving encounter occurred when a compatriot recognized him and hugged him through tears, telling him that his wife was a Mamute follower. This gesture reflected the emotional impact and connection that the influencer has generated in his followers.

Physical transformation and solidarity cause

Mamute's transformation is not limited to the sports field. In January 2026, it launched a solidarity initiative: for every kilogram it lost, it would donate ten kilos of food to people and institutions in vulnerable situations. This proposal, disseminated through its social networks, seeks to involve its community in its process and expand its impact beyond the personal.

With more than three million followers, Mamute openly shares his training routines, eating guidelines, and the challenges he faces. His direct and humorous style has generated identification among those who go through similar situations.

Heading to new destinations

Participation in the European Marathon was not his first international experience nor will it be his last. Mamute's agenda for the next two months includes marathons in Mendoza (Argentina), Santiago (Chile), Rio de Janeiro (Brazil), Phuket (Thailand) and Tromsø (Norway). "I want to travel the world. I'm going to achieve it," declared Mamute, reaffirming that his goal transcends sports and becomes a journey of self-discovery and improvement.

The process that took Mamute from more than 300 kilos to the marathon tracks included rigorous professional monitoring, demonstrating that with determination and support, it is possible to achieve goals that previously seemed unattainable. Her story is a reminder that limits are just the beginning of a new adventure.