João Manoel Menna Barreto
Born to shake up the chessboards since at least 2012, João Manoel Menna Barreto, or as some know him online, John_Menna, is a seasoned speed chess enthusiast whose favorite time control is Bullet. With a peak bullet rating snatching the crown at 1860 and a blitz peak soaring to 1823, this player is a swift and sharp tactician who can turn the tide in under a minute!
Playing Style & Personality
João's games are a mix of aggressive early gambits and deep endgame proficiency. With an average of about 64 moves per win and a propensity to engage in endgames almost 70% of the time, he’s not just quick—he's also thoroughly strategic. However, his 0.85% early resignation rate suggests that if he spots doom, he knows when to gracefully bow out (a true sportsman!).
Known for his turbulent emotions on the board (tilt factor of 15, turns out even pros get miffed), his best time to shine is reportedly around 11:00 AM, proving that some folks are sharper after their morning coffee.
Opening Repertoire
Whether wielding the Sicilian Defense Smith Morra Gambit Accepted with a near 60% win rate or charming opponents with the classical Italian Game, João's opening choices reflect both daring and adaptability. Defenses like the Philidor Defense (64% win rate) and the Scandinavian Defense showcase his readiness to counterattack and seize opportunities.
Notable Stats & Feats
- Total wins over 4,000 in rapid-fire formats (Blitz + Bullet) showing serious endurance and commitment.
- Brilliant 88.27% comeback rate, a true testament to his fighting spirit!
- Longest winning streak of 19 games, proving streaks are more than just luck.
- Handles pressure well, converting wins after losing a piece more than half the time.
Best Recent Games
Latest Checkmate Victory (Bullet, Feb 2015)
João executed a stunning Pirc Defense Antal Defense in a swift 20-move finish, captivating his opponent with a brilliant Rc8# checkmate after a series of precise moves and tactical strikes.
1. e4 d6 2. d4 Nd7 3. f4 c5 4. dxc5 Nxc5 5. Nf3 Bd7 6. b4 Na6 7. Bd2 Rc8 8. a3 Bg4 9. Bxa6 bxa6 10. O-O Bxf3 11. Qxf3 Rxc2 12. Qd3 Qc7 13. Nc3 Rb2 14. Rac1 Nf6 15. e5 dxe5 16. fxe5 Qxe5 17. Bf4 Qe6 18. Rfd1 Nd7 19. Nd5 Qg4 20. Rc8#
Words of Wisdom
Ever heard of the phrase "play fast, not furious"? João lives by it—sometimes resigning early to save energy, but more often blitzing past opponents with daring attacks and a tactic or two up his sleeve. With a temperament sharpened by thousands of fast games, he's a proud gladiator of the digital chess arenas!
"If you can't find a way to win, at least make them think you might. And then win." – Probably João, or at least he should be!