Instructor – Professor | Black Belt | Amit Shaunak

First starting his Brazilian Jiu Jitsu journey in 2001 under Professor Marcelo Pereira at one of the first Gracie Barra schools in San Diego, CA, Amit Shaunak has seen the emergence of self defense and sport jiu jitsu into the worldwide phenomenon that it is today.

In 2005, he was selected with five other students, including Professors Steve Gable, Bardia Rahim, and Nathanial Soli to visit Rio De Janeiro, Brazil where they were hosted and toured around the city by Master Nelson Monteiro, ADCC co-founder and Coral Belt under Master Carlos Gracie Jr. This experience had a long-lasting impact on him as he realized how the art of jiu jitsu is just one of the many beautiful aspects of the vibrant and diverse Brazilian culture.

As an avid traveler, Amit speaks several languages including Hindi and Spanish. He got to experience firsthand the global expansion of jiu jitsu during his most recent visit to India in 2019 where he had the opportunity to attend a no-gi jiu jitsu class and train at the Warriors Cove MMA in New Delhi. 

After spending over two decades as a student of jiu jitsu, Amit received the honor of black belt in 2023 from Professor Marcelo Pereira and is now the owner of Gracie Barra Sorrento Valley. He is very personable and able to communicate with people from all walks of life including children of all ages and people with special needs.

Together with Professors Justin McDaniel and Alex Timberman, they offer a welcoming school with a fun, safe, and clean learning environment that is dedicated to the betterment of every student at all levels throughout their jiu jitsu journeys. 

Combining the Gracie Barra method with their own charisma, the instructors at Gracie Barra Sorrento Valley are honored and ready to welcome you as a team member and experience a journey of growth and development together!