Caio Terra
Caio Terra (b. 1986) is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu world champion and proponent of the “Technique Conquers All” philosophy. Standing out for his success despite competing at a lighter weight class, Terra is known for precision, speed, and technical mastery rather than relying on strength.
Terra has accumulated multiple IBJJF and ADCC titles and has influenced countless athletes through his teaching and seminars, demonstrating that size and power can be overcome with superior technique.
Rafael Barbosa (Formiga)Rafael “Formiga” Barbosa is a decorated BJJ competitor and instructor known for his tactical approach and solid fundamentals. A respected black belt, Barbosa has achieved notable success in IBJJF events and continues to contribute as a mentor and coach.
His approach emphasizes efficiency, control, and the development of students’ technical understanding, making him a well-regarded figure in the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu community.
Augusto MendesAugusto “Tanquinho” Mendes (b. 1983) is a BJJ world champion and MMA fighter. Renowned for his explosive guard passing, submissions, and competitive consistency, Mendes has won multiple IBJJF World Championships and Pan titles.
In addition to his gi accomplishments, Mendes has competed in MMA and teaches BJJ, passing on his experience to the next generation of elite competitors.
Michelle NicoliniMichelle Nicolini (b. 1982) is a Brazilian BJJ black belt, multiple-time IBJJF World Champion, and ADCC gold medalist. She is known for her aggressive, submission-focused style and has successfully competed in both gi and no-gi formats.
Nicolini also transitioned into MMA, applying her elite grappling skills in the cage, while continuing to mentor and inspire female athletes globally.
Leticia RibeiroLeticia Ribeiro (b. 1979) is a BJJ world champion, instructor, and pioneer for women in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. A multiple-time IBJJF World Champion, Ribeiro has played a major role in developing women’s BJJ, both competitively and academically.
Her teaching emphasizes technical precision, strategy, and empowerment, making her an influential figure for female practitioners worldwide.
Hannette StaackHannette Staack (b. 1979) is a Brazilian BJJ black belt, multiple-time IBJJF World Champion, and ADCC gold medalist. Competing primarily in lightweight divisions, Staack is celebrated for her fluid guard game, positional control, and adaptability.
She has been a central figure in the growth of women’s BJJ and continues to teach, coach, and mentor elite athletes around the world.
Rikako YuasaRikako Yuasa (b. 1991) is a Japanese BJJ world champion recognized for her innovative guard work and submission game. Competing successfully in both IBJJF and ADCC events, Yuasa has helped raise the profile of Japanese women in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Her technical precision and competitive success have made her a role model for athletes pursuing high-level grappling outside traditional Brazilian circuits.
Mackenzie DernMackenzie Dern (b. 1993) is a Brazilian-American BJJ world champion and UFC strawweight fighter. Known for her aggressive submission game and mastery in both gi and no-gi, Dern has won multiple IBJJF World Championships and transitioned successfully into MMA.
She continues to compete, teach, and promote BJJ globally, serving as one of the most visible female athletes in the sport today.
Bianca BasilioBianca Basilio (b. 1988) is a BJJ world champion and ADCC gold medalist from Brazil. She is known for her technical mastery, strategic submissions, and control-based approach, excelling in both gi and no-gi competition.
Basilio also contributes as an instructor, helping develop the next generation of elite female grapplers and raising the profile of women’s BJJ internationally.
Mayssa BastosMayssa Bastos (b. 2000) is a Brazilian BJJ world champion, competing primarily in the lightest women’s divisions. Known for her aggressive guard passing, dynamic submissions, and competitive maturity, Bastos has emerged as one of the leading young stars in women’s BJJ.
Her rapid ascent and technical innovation continue to inspire younger athletes in the sport.
Jessica FlowersJessica Flowers (b. 1990s) is a BJJ black belt recognized for her competitive achievements in IBJJF events. Known for her disciplined approach and technical proficiency, Flowers has excelled in both local and international tournaments.
She also dedicates time to coaching and mentoring, contributing to the development of BJJ at the grassroots and competitive levels.
Talita AlencarTalita Alencar (b. 1999) is a Brazilian BJJ world champion who competes successfully in both gi and no-gi divisions. Known for her fluid guard, submission versatility, and strategic competition approach, Alencar has quickly become a standout female athlete in global BJJ.
Her success at a young age highlights the growing depth and talent in modern women’s Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Tayane PorfirioTayane Porfirio (b. 1990) is a BJJ world champion recognized for her dominance in the heavyweight division. She is celebrated for her powerful top control, pressure passing, and submission-oriented style.
Porfirio has been a consistent champion at IBJJF and ADCC events and serves as a mentor and coach, helping expand opportunities for female athletes in BJJ worldwide.
These entries maintain the competition, style, and legacy focus seen in the previous people sections.