Classes

Professor Rodrigo was born in Manaus, Brazil, and began training in Jiu Jitsu at the age of six. With the support of his family, he moved to the United States in 2009, where he quickly fell in love with the city of Long Beach. Since then, Professor Rodrigo has dedicated himself to sharing Jiu Jitsu with the community and making the art accessible to everyone.

Our founder has trained under many legends of the sport and received his belt promotions directly from Master Carlos Gracie Jr. A lifelong competitor, Professor Rodrigo has earned numerous prestigious titles, including World Championship Finalist, European Champion, and multiple national titles in Switzerland, Sweden, and Germany.

His personal mission is to ensure that every student learns the core values of Jiu Jitsu discipline, respect, and perseverance so they not only become skilled fighters but also martial artists who contribute positively to their community.

Adult Professor for the GB1 and GB3  classes.

Introducing Professor Brian, an extraordinary individual hailing from Long Beach, California. While an experienced Heavy equipment mechanic, his true passion lies in Jiu Jitsu, which he embarked upon in 2010.  Since January 2021, he has been sharing his expertise as an esteemed Professor at Gracie Barra Long Beach leading our Morning classes.

Professor Michael Villareal is a 1st Degree Black Belt under Professor Rodrigo and has been part of the academy for nearly 16 years. His Jiu Jitsu journey began when he enrolled his children in classes—eventually, they convinced him to join in as well. Today, Professor Michael and his kids teach and coach the Kids Program together, sharing their passion and guiding young students through their own Jiu Jitsu journeys.

A retired Detective, Professor Michael also advocates for law enforcement officers to train in Jiu Jitsu, recognizing the valuable skills and discipline it provides both on and off the mats.

Kids’ Instructor for the Tiny Champions|Little Champions 1 and the Little Champions 2|Junior classes. Started training Jiu-Jitsu at age 11 at Gracie Barra Long Beach. Works in Cyber Security but his true passion is teaching Jiu Jitsu Professor Mitchell has great attention to detail and is always inspiring the next generations being the living proof that our Kids Program creates great Jiu-Jitsu ambassadors.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt Professor for our GBK Classes. His journey in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu commenced training at Gracie Barra Headquarters but once archiving his Blue Belt Professor Nate moved to Gracie Barra Long Beach falling in love with our team and being a staple at our gym if you ever enter our gym and see a big smile you have just found our beloved Professor Nate.

Professor Heverson Rocha is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt under Professor Otávio Sousa and a proud member of the Gracie Barra organization. With over twelve years of experience training, teaching, and competing, he represents the true spirit of discipline, respect, and perseverance that defines the Gracie Barra legacy.

Professor Heverson is known for his energy, leadership, and clear communication, He creates an environment where students feel motivated to become their best on and off the mats. Outside the academy, he is a devoted husband and father, inspired every day by his wife Flora and daughter Louise to live and teach through love, discipline, and purpose.