What is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu?
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, commonly known as the gentle art, is a martial art that involves self-defence and combat sports. It is generally practiced on the ground and uses grappling and submission techniques (often chokes and joint locks) to neutralise an opponent. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu employs the concept that a smaller, weaker person can defend against a bigger and stronger opponent through leverage and correct technique making this martial art suitable for all ages, shapes, sizes and both genders.
Why train BJJ?
- Improve strength, fitness and flexibility
- Increase self-confidence
- Learn self-defence
- Improve health and weight loss
- Make new friends and have fun
- Develop anti-bullying skills for kids
Alexandre Dos Santos
The late Professor Alexandre Dos Santos was a Fifth Degree Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt under master Helio “Soneca” Moreira. He had a long history of competing and teaching at an international level. In 2010 he moved to Australia to continue his journey and expand the teaching of BJJ around the world. In December 2024, Professor Alexandre passed away after a long battle with cancer. His legacy lives on through his teachings.
Full Biography
Alexandre Dos Santos was born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. He started training at Neury Gomes’s academy in Vassouras – Rio de Janeiro. He trained with master Neury until he received his blue belt, but moved to the ‘Gracie Leblon’ gym (Rio de Janeiro) where he was taught by Soneca.
Alexandre earned his purple and brown belt from Helio Soneca, but he divided his training between Soneca’s gym and his old academy in Vassouras where he started also helping the class. In 2003 he received his black belt from the Oswaldo Fadda protégé.
In 2010 Alexandre came to Melbourne, Australia to continue his BJJ journey.
In 2015 Alexandre fulfilled his life-long dream of opening his own academy which is located in North Melbourne. During his lifetime he made significant contributions to the Australian BJJ community, impacting many lives through his teachings. His legacy lives on through his family and students.
Lineage 1st master: Mitsuyo Maeda > Luis França > Oswaldo Fadda > Neury Gomes> Alexandre Santos
Lineage 2nd master: Mitsuyo Maeda > Carlos Gracie > Carlos Gracie Jnr. > Helio Soneca > Alexandre Santos