There are no limits to those who work hard and give their best. Professor Philipe Della Monica is a great example for that matter.

Furão (Ferret in Portuguese) has always been passionate about Jiu-Jitsu and since he was young he already knew that he wanted to make the gentle art his profession. In 2007 he moved to California to join forces with Master Carlos Gracie Jr. and contribute to the mission of bringing Jiu-Jitsu for everyone.

Unable to speak English, away from his family and best friends, he began his career by helping out at the Irvine Headquarters in California. In a few months, his work and dedication were recognized and Philipe began to teach some at the HQ.

In the year 2009, he was sent to Chicago to assist in the development of the region. With impeccable work after 6 months he returned to California in search of his biggest dream: open a Gracie Barra school of his own.

A few months later Philipe inaugurated GB Saddleback where he was the head instructor for 5 years and became also a Jiu-Jitsu entrepreneur. His dedication to the school, management skills, and loyalty to the red shield drew the attention of Master Carlos Gracie Jr.

In the year 2015 Professor Della Monica was invited to join forces at the US Headquarters. 2 years had passed and Philipe had done an exceptional job dedicating himself with responsibility and passion to Gracie Barra and to the Headquarters in Irvine. In addition to working at the HQ Furão was also very dicated to the GB competition team, the GB North America projects and the support of GB schools.

In May, Professor Philipe Della Monica was appointed Chief Instructor of the GB Headquarters – in Irvine, which is one of the most successful and admirable positions to conquer.

Congratulations Professor Philipe Della Monica on behalf of Master Carlos Gracie Jr and the entire Gracie Barra family, we thank you immensely for your dedication, hard work and love for the GB Red Shield.

As Mestre Carlinhos always tells us “the sky is the limit”, and stories like this are here to inspire and motivate us to always be looking for our best on and off the mats.


“This was one of the most important and special days of my life! Master Carlos Gracie Jr. nominated me the Head Instructor of Gracie Barra Headquarters in Irvine and awarded me with my own framed photo. The photo is to be hung on the wall at the GBHQ main dojo area alongside his picture and Professor Marcio Feitosa’s. Thank you, Master Carlos and Professor Marcio, for everything. I’m so honored for this moment and I will continue to work hard every day to spread Master Carlos’ vision, philosophy and keep the Gracie Barra legacy alive.”