CARLSON GRACIE TEAM HISTORY
CARLSON GRACIE JIU-JITSU TEAM
Considered by many as the most successful Brazilian Jiu Jitsu academy in the history of the sport, the Carlson Gracie Jiu Jitsu Team was the true juggernaut of competitive BJJ in the 1970’s, 1980’s and early 1990’s. A team remembered for big names such as “Serginho de Niteroi”, Amauri Bitetti, Ricardo De La Riva, Ricardo Liborio, Paulo Filho and many, many others, the Carlson Gracie Academy was also the flagship for innovation in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, having added strong trends such as group classes, a strong focus on sport BJJ and the use of animals in the academy’s logo(s), all ideas coming from the leader of the team, the late Master Carlson Gracie.
THE HISTORY OF CARLSON GRACIE ACADEMY
The history of the Carlson Gracie Jiu Jitsu Team starts in 1964 through a partnership between the Gracie’s and a vale tudo (no-holds-bared) fighting legend Ivan Gomes. Ivan had fought Carlson and became good friends with the Rio native after the match. The two formed an association and decided to open a grappling academy together. The partnership didn’t last more then a year and after the split Carlson partnered with another friend – Helio Vígio.
Carlson Gracie learned from this venture with Ivan Gomes that an academy was a viable solution for his future, and as his career in Vale Tudo was nearing its terminus he decided to open his own gym in the fashionable burg of Copacabana, in Rio de Janeiro – Brazil.
There is no reward without sacrifice.
There is no losing in jiu jitsu. You either win or you learn.
If you want to be a lion, you must train with lions.
Always enter like a kitten and leave like a lion. But NEVER enter like a lion and leave like a kitten. Always be humble.
ABOUT US
Carlson Gracie Team is globally recognized as one of the top grappling teams, and we are proud to bring our legacy to San Antonio. More than just a gym, we see Jiu-Jitsu as a way of life—one built on respect, discipline, and tradition. Every student on our mats is treated like family, fostering a close-knit, friendly environment where personal growth comes first.
Our Professor maintains a strong, personal connection with each student, ensuring individualized guidance regardless of experience level. We welcome beginners, competitors, and hobbyists alike, embracing the old-school tradition where everyone trains together, learning from one another just as Jiu-Jitsu was originally taught.
With daily Gi and No-Gi classes, there's always an opportunity to train. Come step onto the mat and experience the Carlson Gracie legacy for yourself!