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THE TRUE JIU JITSU LIFESTYLE

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Alliance
Schools

Alliance TEAM

OUR CULTURE

WHAT WE BELIEVE IN

CHAMPIONS

WHO MADE HISTORY

INSTITUTO

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Our positioning

We are the best Jiu Jitsu team in the world, with a pioneering methodology for group classes and more than 300 schools worldwide.

Our founders

MESTRE ROMERO JACARÉ

"Jacaré" Cavalcanti

Born in 1952, Jacaré began his BJJ training at the age of 11. At 16, he joined the famous Gracie School in Copacabana, where he grew up. Jacaré and the Gracies lived in the same neighborhood, which allowed him to get to know all of them. He trained with Carlos Gracie Jr., Gracie Crolin, Santos Fabio, Mauricio Gomes, the Machados, Rickson Gracie, and many others.

MESTRE ALEXANDRE PAIVA

"Gigi" Paiva

Alexandre Paiva began training Jiu Jitsu in 1983 with Professor Jacaré in Ipanema. He trained an average of 8 hours per day, began to stand out among the students, and started competing as a blue belt. In 1991, he earned his black belt from Jacaré and started a new phase in his career. He taught at Jacaré´s academy, as well as at the Equipe 1 Academy in Ipanema and the Clube Federal Strike Academy.

MESTRE FABIO GURGEL

“General” Gurgel

Born in 1970 in Rio de Janeiro, Fabio began his Jiu Jitsu journey at 13 years old. By 16, after winning several titles as a blue and purple belt, he became an instructor at Jacaré Jiu Jitsu. At 19, he earned his black belt, becoming the first black belt of Mestre Romero Jacaré. In 1993, he co-founded Alliance Jiu Jitsu with Alexandre Paiva and Mestre Romero Jacaré.

Our champions

Andresa Correa

With one of the most solid careers in the history of women’s Jiu Jitsu, Andresa stood out by winning the major titles in the sport. She is a six-time world champion, with three titles in the Gi (2013, 2014, and 2016) and three No Gi (2014, 2015, and 2016).

Bernardo Faria

More difficult than winning the world title in a division is winning in the absolute black belt category, the most coveted title in Jiu Jitsu. Bernardo, with his impressive career, achieved the world title four times (2010, 2013, 2015), including a victory in the absolute in 2015. In addition to these accomplishments, Bernardo also triumphed in every Grand Slam tournament (European, Brazilian, Pan American, and World).

Bruno Malfacine

Recognized as the greatest bantamweight in Jiu Jitsu history, Bruno Malfacine is a legend of the sport. Known as Bruninho, he won every Grand Slam title and holds the impressive record of 10 world titles (2007, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2018).

Elizabeth Mitrovic

Elizabeth Katherine Mitrovic won two world titles from the International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) in colored belt divisions, standing out on the global stage. Later, Mitrovic repeated her achievement by winning a No Gi World title in the professional black belt division and also won several Masters World Championships from IBJJF, as well as a gold medal.

Gabi Garcia

Holder of some of the most impressive records in the history of women’s Jiu Jitsu, Gabi Garcia was the most dominant athlete of her generation. Among her many accomplishments, she won six world titles (in both weight and absolute categories in 2010, 2011, and 2012) and four ADCC titles.

Gianni Grippo

Gianni Grippo is widely recognized as one of the main figures of the “Berimbolo Generation” in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, having built this reputation in the lower belt divisions, where he won 6 world titles (4 with Gi and 2 No Gi). After graduating with Marcelo Garcia, he won two more No Gi World titles (2018 and 2021).

Isaac Doerderlein

Isaac Doederlein is a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt under Rubens Charles “Cobrinha”. One of his most impressive feats was winning the Brazilian National Championship in 2019, becoming the third American to achieve this important title in the sport’s history and the second in the men’s division.

Johnny Tama

Johnny Tama is an Ecuadorian grappler and black belt in Jiu Jitsu under the guidance of Juan Miguel Iturralde from the Alliance Jiu Jitsu Team. In December 2019, Johnny became the first Hispanic athlete to win an IBJJF world title in the adult black belt division of this sport.

Kennedy Maciel

Kennedy Maciel is a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt, promoted by his father, the legendary Rubens Charles, known as Cobrinha. Widely regarded as one of the top competitors of his generation, Kennedy began to stand out in the sport during his campaigns in the colored belts. During this time, he won world titles in both the International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) and the United Arab Emirates Jiu Jitsu Federation (UAEJJF), two of the most prestigious Jiu Jitsu leagues.

Laércio Fernandes

Laércio Fernandes is recognized for his achievements in high-level competitions, including the world title (1999) and the Pan American Championship (2001). With a technical and disciplined style, he stands out as a dedicated instructor, passing on the values and philosophy of Jiu Jitsu to his students.

Leonardo Nogueira

Leo is another representative of Alliance Jiu Jitsu who reached the top in the major competitions of the sport, including a Grand Slam by winning the European Championship, two Brazilian Championships, the Pan American, and two impressive world titles in the black belt division (2011 and 2012).

Lucas Lepri

Lucas Lepri is undoubtedly one of the greatest lightweight Jiu Jitsu athletes in history. A representative of the golden era of Alliance Jiu Jitsu in the lightweight division, he won the world title nine times, six with a Gi (2007, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019) and three No Gi (2009, 2010, and 2011).

Marcelo Garcia

Marcelo Garcia, known as ‘Marcelinho’, is widely recognized as one of the greatest Jiu Jitsu fighters of all time. He won the world title five times (2004, 2006, 2009, 2010, and 2011) and is also a four-time ADCC champion, known as the most prestigious grappling championship in the world.

Mario Reis

Mario Reis is one of the top Brazilian Jiu Jitsu competitors in the featherweight division. Born in southern Brazil, he won several competitions, including the World Championship, the World Cup, and many other important tournaments. Known for his aggressive style, both in guard and passing, Reis is considered one of the most exciting fighters in the division.

Melissa Cueto

Melissa Cueto is a talented black belt in Jiu Jitsu, standing out for her accomplishments in international competitions, including the world championship title (2021) and the Pan American Championship (2022). Known for her refined technique and determination, she inspires other women to follow the path of martial arts. In addition to being an athlete, Melissa is also dedicated to teaching, sharing her passion for Jiu Jitsu with her students.

Rubens Charles “Cobrinha”

Rubens Charles, better known as Cobrinha, is considered one of the greatest competitors in the history of Jiu Jitsu. He won the world title on nine occasions, five with a Gi (2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, and 2017) and four No Gi, and also won the ADCC three times. Cobrinha is the only Jiu Jitsu athlete to have won the Super Grand Slam, by becoming the world, Pan American, European, Brazilian, and ADCC champion in the same year (2017).

Tarsis Humphreys

Tarsis accumulated numerous titles throughout his career, including the 2010 world title in the middleweight division, one of the most competitive divisions in Jiu Jitsu, in addition to gold in the absolute category at the World Pro in Abu Dhabi.

Vinicius Gazola

Vinícius Ferreira Gazola, better known as Vinícius “Trator”, is a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt under Fabio Gurgel and Michael Langhi, and is one of the leading representatives of Alliance Jiu Jitsu Team. Widely recognized as one of the best competitors of his generation, Gazola has won important titles in the International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) circuit, including gold medals at the World Championship, No Gi World Championship, and Pan American Championship.

Henrique Rezende

Henrique Rezende is the 2017 No Gi World Champion, currently serving as the Head Coach at Alliance London. Known for his impeccable technique and dedication to teaching, he is a committed instructor, teaching Jiu Jitsu with passion. His experience and knowledge make him a valuable reference for the Jiu Jitsu community.

Daniela Genovesi

Daniela Genovesi is a Jiu Jitsu world champion, recognized for her victories on the international scene. Today, she shares her vast experience as a teacher at Alliance Boise, contributing to the development of new talents under the philosophy of one of the founding academies of the Alliance team.

A Jiu Jitsu Instructor Training Program

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Our
brand essence

CHAMPION’S ATTITUDE

It is the awareness of the journey, focusing on the present moment, not the result.

At the top of the podium are those who stand out, where effort and sacrifice made the difference.

It’s like when we challenge someone to do 10 push-ups, and that person does 11, knowing that this extra effort is essential to achieving incredible results. The greatest victories come to those who don’t settle for the basics. After all, those who are satisfied with mediocrity are simply dragging their feet through life.

The Essence is also the promise of our brand and what our customers expect from us. It’s how we want to be seen, how we want to be recognized. Through this essence, we build deep emotional connections and strengthen the bonds with our students.

A well-defined brand essence is like a superpower that drives the success and growth of a company. Our current essence and culture are our greatest assets, as they inspire a community of transformers who are impacting people all over the world, building a bright future for Jiu Jitsu.

“It is at the extreme where extraordinary things happen.”

-Fabio Gurgel

Our pillars

vanguard

Think outside the box, surprise, and go beyond expectations.

Method

Systematic work, with automated and disciplined processes.

Luxury

Attention to detail.
Care and precision.

Through Jiu Jitsu:
We transform lives

The benefits of jiu jitsu

Discipline and Focus

Practitioners learn to concentrate their minds, a skill that can be applied to other areas of life, such as work, studies, and relationships.

Increased Self-confidence

As students acquire technical skills, they develop a sense of confidence in their physical and mental abilities. This reflects in other areas of life, promoting greater security and self-esteem.

Mental and Emotional Development

The practice presents constant challenges, helping develop problem-solving skills, decision-making under pressure, and emotional control.

Networking and Community

Jiu Jitsu has a strong community, offering opportunities to build new friendships with like-minded individuals, creating a supportive, family-like environment.

Physical Conditioning

It is a full-body physical activity that improves cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength, flexibility, and motor coordination. The training and technical movements require physical effort, leading to an overall improvement in physical conditioning.

Self-defense

Jiu Jitsu is highly effective, with techniques for submission, control, and personal defense, enabling the defense and neutralization of larger and stronger opponents.

Sense of Achievement

The methodology is based on students’ attendance and class progress, fostering a sense of responsibility for their own growth. They can track their progress and know the next steps in their journey.

Stress Management

It helps release endorphins, reducing anxiety and promoting a sense of well-being.

Our team

ROMERO “JACARÉ” CAVALCANTI

Co-Founder

Born in 1952, Jacaré began his BJJ training at the age of 11. At 16, he joined the famous Gracie School in Copacabana, where he grew up. Jacaré and the Gracies lived in the same neighborhood, which allowed him to get to know all of them. He trained with Carlos Gracie Jr., Gracie Crolin, Santos Fabio, Mauricio Gomes, the Machados, Rickson Gracie, and many others.

FABIO GURGEL “GENERAL”

Co-Founder

Born in 1970 in Rio de Janeiro, Fabio began his Jiu Jitsu journey at 13 years old. By 16, after winning several titles as a blue and purple belt, he became an instructor at Jacaré Jiu Jitsu. At 19, he earned his black belt, becoming the first black belt of Mestre Romero Jacaré. In 1993, he co-founded Alliance Jiu Jitsu with Alexandre Paiva and Mestre Romero Jacaré.

ALEXANDRE “GIGI” PAIVA

Co-Founder

Alexandre Paiva began training Jiu Jitsu in 1983 with Professor Jacaré in Ipanema. He trained an average of 8 hours per day, began to stand out among the students, and started competing as a blue belt. In 1991, he earned his black belt from Jacaré and started a new phase in his career. He taught at Jacaré´s academy, as well as at the Equipe 1 Academy in Ipanema and the Clube Federal Strike Academy.

ROBERT “BOBBY” ARMINJO

Co-Founder

Bobby began his Jiu Jitsu journey at the age of 33 (2013) and with only 3 days left of being 40 years old, he earned his blackbelt with Alliance Jiu Jitsu.
At blue belt in 2017, he became part owner in Alliance San Diego with his professor Johnny Faria and in 2019 was invited to become a partner with
Fabio, Gigi, and Master Jacare with the Alliance Association. He has gone on to open another academy in southern San Diego going from 0 to 400 students in 15 months, and opening multiple ‘Flagships’ within the Alliance brand in the next few years.
He has a true passion for Jiu Jitsu. He has attributed all of his adult successes to the art of Jiu Jitsu, and is now committed to sharing and spreading what changed his life and doing so through Alliance Jiu Jitsu brand, teachings, and commitment to be the best.

RICARDO CALOI

Customer Relationship Director

Ricardo Caloi joined Alliance Jiu Jitsu in 2008. After graduating in Business Administration, he began working at Alliance Jiu Jitsu Association at the end of 2011 with the goal of unifying the Alliance Jiu Jitsu units under the leadership of Master Romero Jacaré, Fabio Gurgel, and Gigi Paiva. He has worked in various areas of the company and has been a key player in the business’s growth. He earned his black belt in Jiu Jitsu from Mestre Fabio Gurgel in June 2016. He currently provides direct support to all Alliance Jiu Jitsu units, offering management consultancy and customer experience.

CAMILA CALOI

Brand Director

Camila P. A. Caloi is the Brand/Branding and Communication Director. She holds a degree in Graphic Design with an MBA in Branding and started working at Alliance Jiu Jitsu in 2018. In addition to institutional communication, she is responsible for marketing, events, flagship standardization, and product design. A practitioner of the gentle art, currently a blue belt, mother of two, and married to Ricardo Caloi, she is a strong advocate for the benefits and longevity of Jiu Jitsu.

FERNANDO TOCACHELLI

Financial and Executive Director

Fernando Tocachelli joined Alliance Jiu Jitsu in early 2024 as CFO. He holds a degree in Economics with a specialization in Finance and an MBA from Fundação Dom Cabral. He has built his career in the finance department of multinational companies, gaining expertise in Treasury, Controlling, Financial Planning, and M&A. In recent years, he has led financial structuring projects for fast-growing startups and contributed to relevant controls and initiatives for these businesses.

RAFAEL SANTIAGO

Content and Methodology Manager

Rafael Santiago, a publicist graduated from PUC-Campinas and a black belt in Jiu Jitsu under Michael Langhi, joined Alliance Jiu Jitsu in 2021 as a marketing assistant. In 2023, he moved to affiliate support and, since early 2024, has held the position of methodology coordinator. In this role, Rafael is responsible for the production of new courses, the development of the methodology app, and the implementation of new technologies.

LUCIANO NUCCI

Creator of the Alliance Future Methodology

Luciano Nunes Nucci, better known as “Casquinha,” has been involved in Jiu Jitsu since 1993. For 15 years, he was part of the Ryan Gracie family, where he earned his black belt. In 2007, he made a significant career move by joining the Alliance Jiu Jitsu team. Currently, Luciano is the head coach and owner of Alliance Jiu Jitsu Mooca, where he has led the academy for 26 years. With a 5th-degree black belt, he is also known for his contribution to the development of the team’s children’s methodologies, being the creator of the Baby Eagle, Little Eagle, Eagle Warrior, and Eagle Youth programs. Additionally, he is the technical head for all school methodologies, with a special focus on teaching and developing Jiu Jitsu for children.

VINCENT HOPE

Commercial Manager

Vincent Hope began his journey with Alliance Jiu Jitsu Association in 2019, responsible for affiliate support in North America, specifically the United States, Mexico, and Canada. In 2021, he expanded his role, leading the global affiliate support team, covering North America, South America, Brazil, Europe, Africa, and Asia/Pacific. By 2023, he assumed leadership of the commercial department, responsible for the development and management of sales processes.

JULIANA FISCHER

Onboarding and Marketing Assistant

Juliana began training at Alliance Jiu Jitsu in early 2022 and joined the team by the end of the same year. Initially, she was involved as an assistant in the marketing department, and since early 2024, she also leads the onboarding process for new affiliates. Born and raised in Germany, she is currently studying Cultural Pedagogy and Media at the International University of Erfurt, Germany.

MARIANA RAMOS

Products Assistant

Mariana Ramos, a publicist graduated from Faculdade da Cidade do Salvador, joined Alliance Jiu Jitsu in January 2022 as Brazil Regional Assistant. In October 2022, she transitioned to Assistant of Products, where she provides support to the Product Manager, attends to Alliance Jiu Jitsu affiliates regarding product demand, compiles data from suppliers, conducts audits, and supports the financial department.

LUCIANA

Administrative Assistant

Luciana began training Jiu Jitsu in 2018 in California, US. She holds a degree in Journalism from PUC Rio and Marketing from Veiga de Almeida – Rio de Janeiro. She worked in her field before moving to the United States. Upon returning to Brazil, she joined the Alliance Jiu Jitsu Association in 2024 as an Administrative Assistant.

ROGÉRIO

Audiovisual Producer

Rogério Martins is a Graphic Design graduate from Belas Artes in São Paulo. With over 20 years of experience as an audiovisual producer, he also has extensive experience in communications, having built his career in a large network of private schools in São Paulo.
A Jiu Jitsu Lifestyle enthusiast, he founded Abasejj, a communications advisory agency focused on Jiu Jitsu academies, a year and a half ago. The agency’s goal is to spread the knowledge of its clients, contributing to the strengthening of the culture of personal transformation through the gentle art.

Schools near you

TEste
| 1,5 KM

Alliance Campo Belo

São Paulo | São Paulo | Brazil

(11) 94791-4111

Alameda dos Arapanés, 1334, Indianópolis, São Paulo/SP

Fabio Pinheiro

contato@alliancemoema.com.br

www.alliancemoema.com.br

Flasgships

Jardins — São Paulo

Endereço

Rua Estados Unidos, 1615,
Jardim América-SP
CEP: 01427-002

Horários de funcionamento

Seg a sex: 7h às 22h
Sabádos: 8h às 12h

TEste

Londres — Inglaterra

Endereço

Block C Unit 10-12 The Boulevard, Imperial
Wharf, London, England, SW6 2UB

Horários de funcionamento

Seg a sex: 7h às 22h
Sabádos: 9h às 12h

GET TO KNOW OUR METHODOLOGY

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