ARTE
SUAVE

Physically frail as a child, Hélio adapted judo techniques to rely on leverage instead of strength — and in doing so created BJJ as we know it. He fought vale tudo matches into his 40s and lived to 95. His philosophy that a smaller, weaker person can defeat a larger opponent is the entire foundation of the art.

Learned judo from Mitsuyo Maeda in Belém do Pará and started teaching it in Rio de Janeiro in 1925. Carlos opened the first Gracie Academy and established the family's challenge match tradition — inviting anyone to fight to prove the effectiveness of their art. Fathered 21 children, many of whom became BJJ legends.

Widely considered the greatest Gracie fighter of all time by those who trained with him. His vale tudo record is rumoured to be over 400-0, though official records are disputed. Fought in Japan in the 1990s — his fights against Yoji Anjo and in the Pride Fighting Championships are iconic. Films like "Choke" (1999) document his philosophy. Known for breathing techniques and an almost spiritual connection to Jiu-Jitsu.

Chosen to represent the Gracie family in the first UFC in 1993 — won by submitting larger opponents from different disciplines in a single night. His victories in UFC 1, 2, and 4 shocked the martial arts world and made BJJ a global phenomenon. Hélio's son, Rickson's brother. His name is permanently tied to the birth of modern MMA.

Son of Maurição Gomes and nephew of Carlos Gracie Jr. Widely regarded as the greatest competitor in BJJ history. Famous for defeating elite black belts with the most basic submissions — cross choke from mount, rear naked choke. Won absolute and open weight divisions simultaneously at multiple worlds. His technical purity set the standard for an entire generation.

Considered by many the greatest no-gi grappler ever. Famous for his lightning guillotine and the north-south choke he practically invented for competition. Consistently defeated opponents 30–40 lbs heavier than him at ADCC. Known as much for his humble, gentle spirit as his devastating technique. His open mat in NYC became a pilgrimage site for elite BJJ players worldwide.

The most decorated heavyweight in BJJ history, with 13 world championship titles across multiple weight divisions including the absolute. Known for explosive athleticism, relentless pressure passing, and a dominant top game. Fought Roger Gracie in an epic superfight. Transitioned to MMA in 2020 and went undefeated in his first 12 fights in ONE Championship.

Widely regarded as the best no-gi submission grappler alive. Trained under John Danaher — the most celebrated grappling coach of his generation — and developed a hyper-systematic approach to back control and leg attacks. Known for his physical transformation, vocal personality, and absolute dominance at ADCC. Founded New Wave Jiu-Jitsu in 2022. His rivalry with André Galvão is one of the great chapters in modern grappling.

Five-time world champion famous for his deep half guard and smothering over-under pressure passing — techniques that redefined how the community thinks about top control. As influential off the mat as on it: his YouTube channel and BJJ Fanatics instructionals have taught millions. Known for his approachable, enthusiastic personality and genuine passion for sharing the art.

One of the most complete grapplers of his generation. Founded Atos Jiu-Jitsu in San Diego after leaving Alliance, building it into one of the top no-gi teams in the world. A four-time ADCC champion who fought until his 40s — he met Gordon Ryan in a superfight at ADCC 2022 in one of the most anticipated matches in submission grappling history.