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BJ Penn: A Journey From Brazil’s Mats to Global Jiu Jitsu History BJ Penn: A Journey From Brazil’s Mats to Global Jiu Jitsu History
The Early Days in Brazil
BJ Penn built his Jiu Jitsu in Brazil. When he arrived as a young athlete, he put on the kimono and stepped straight into the routine at Nova União, known at the time for having the strongest lightweight team in the world. Training under Dedé Pederneiras and sharing the mats with names like Leo Santos, Robson Moura and Vitor “Shaolin” Ribeiro, BJ developed his game the hard way: long sessions, nonstop rounds and constant technical sharpening.
A Black Belt Rise Few Have Seen
His climb through the ranks became part of Jiu Jitsu history. He went from white to black belt in a little over three years. Six months to blue belt under Ralph Gracie, about a year and a half to purple, and once he joined Nova União, Dedé promoted him to brown in eight months and to black belt eight months later. A pace that only happens when someone is fully immersed in the mat grind.
The Breakthrough Moment
Everything came together in 2000, when BJ won the IBJJF World Championship as a black belt and became the first American to ever claim the title. A moment that shifted how the world viewed non-Brazilian athletes in Jiu Jitsu. He always said Jiu Jitsu changed his life, and he never stopped crediting Brazil, Dedé, the Gracie family and everyone who helped push the art forward.
Taking Jiu Jitsu to the UFC
With that foundation, BJ carried Jiu Jitsu into the UFC and built another chapter. He submitted top athletes, won belts, became a two-division champion and earned his place in the Hall of Fame. His fights showed exactly how far high-level Jiu Jitsu can go when applied with awareness, pressure and timing.
Why This Story Still Matters
Today’s TBT is a reminder of a path that opened doors for an entire generation. Seeing BJ Penn smile today is remembering everything he has done for Jiu Jitsu, for MMA and for the community that grew from the Brazilian mats to the rest of the world.
The Early Days in Brazil
BJ Penn built his Jiu Jitsu in Brazil. When he arrived as a young athlete, he put on the kimono and stepped straight into the routine at Nova União, known at the time for having the strongest lightweight team in the world. Training under Dedé Pederneiras and sharing the mats with names like Leo Santos, Robson Moura and Vitor “Shaolin” Ribeiro, BJ developed his game the hard way: long sessions, nonstop rounds and constant technical sharpening.
A Black Belt Rise Few Have Seen
His climb through the ranks became part of Jiu Jitsu history. He went from white to black belt in a little over three years. Six months to blue belt under Ralph Gracie, about a year and a half to purple, and once he joined Nova União, Dedé promoted him to brown in eight months and to black belt eight months later. A pace that only happens when someone is fully immersed in the mat grind.
The Breakthrough Moment
Everything came together in 2000, when BJ won the IBJJF World Championship as a black belt and became the first American to ever claim the title. A moment that shifted how the world viewed non-Brazilian athletes in Jiu Jitsu. He always said Jiu Jitsu changed his life, and he never stopped crediting Brazil, Dedé, the Gracie family and everyone who helped push the art forward.
Taking Jiu Jitsu to the UFC
With that foundation, BJ carried Jiu Jitsu into the UFC and built another chapter. He submitted top athletes, won belts, became a two-division champion and earned his place in the Hall of Fame. His fights showed exactly how far high-level Jiu Jitsu can go when applied with awareness, pressure and timing.
Why This Story Still Matters
Today’s TBT is a reminder of a path that opened doors for an entire generation. Seeing BJ Penn smile today is remembering everything he has done for Jiu Jitsu, for MMA and for the community that grew from the Brazilian mats to the rest of the world.
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Surf and Jiu Jitsu: Two Lifestyles, One Soul Surf and Jiu Jitsu: Two Lifestyles, One Soul
Origins in Rio de Janeiro
In the 1970s, under Brazil’s military dictatorship, the beaches of Rio were more than just sand and sea. They became a sanctuary.
Surfing meant freedom. Jiu Jitsu meant discipline, respect, and confidence.
When these two tribes crossed paths, they clashed, connected, and built a lifestyle that shaped generations of Brazilians and spread worldwide.
When the Tribes Met
At Arpoador, iconic names created the roots of this connection. Relson Gracie and Rolls Gracie surfed the same waves where Ricardo Bocão, Otávio Pacheco, and Daniel Sabbá paddled out. After surf sessions, they put on the gi and stepped onto the mats.
There were battles too. Sabbá once got taken down on the sand by a Gracie without a single punch thrown. But those clashes built respect. Soon, kimonos started showing up on the beach, while surfboards were carried into the academies.
The 80s and 90s: Expansion
In the following decades, Marcelo Behring became a key figure. He brought surfers onto the mat in São Paulo, spread the Jiu Jitsu lifestyle in Hawaii, and earned recognition both on the waves and on the mats.
As Ricardo Bocão put it:
“Jiu Jitsu brought discipline to surfing, and surfing brought relaxation to Jiu Jitsu.”
More Than 50 Years Later
Today, the bond between surf and Jiu Jitsu remains alive. The ocean and the mats are like two religions, shaping body, mind, and spirit.
It’s a story written with waves and sweeps, freedom and discipline, sweat and saltwater.
Tribute to Daniel Sabbá
This story also carries the legacy of Daniel Sabbá (in memoriam) surfer, TV presenter, and one of the first to truly embody the fusion of surf and Jiu Jitsu. His famous moment at Arpoador became part of history: how Jiu Jitsu stepped into the surf world and never left.
References
This article was inspired by and references the work of Luca Atalla, published in GRACIEMAG (Gracie Magazine No. 30, Year IV, July 1999).
Origins in Rio de Janeiro
In the 1970s, under Brazil’s military dictatorship, the beaches of Rio were more than just sand and sea. They became a sanctuary.
Surfing meant freedom. Jiu Jitsu meant discipline, respect, and confidence.
When these two tribes crossed paths, they clashed, connected, and built a lifestyle that shaped generations of Brazilians and spread worldwide.When the Tribes Met
At Arpoador, iconic names created the roots of this connection. Relson Gracie and Rolls Gracie surfed the same waves where Ricardo Bocão, Otávio Pacheco, and Daniel Sabbá paddled out. After surf sessions, they put on the gi and stepped onto the mats.
There were battles too. Sabbá once got taken down on the sand by a Gracie without a single punch thrown. But those clashes built respect. Soon, kimonos started showing up on the beach, while surfboards were carried into the academies.
The 80s and 90s: Expansion
In the following decades, Marcelo Behring became a key figure. He brought surfers onto the mat in São Paulo, spread the Jiu Jitsu lifestyle in Hawaii, and earned recognition both on the waves and on the mats.
As Ricardo Bocão put it:
“Jiu Jitsu brought discipline to surfing, and surfing brought relaxation to Jiu Jitsu.”More Than 50 Years Later
Today, the bond between surf and Jiu Jitsu remains alive. The ocean and the mats are like two religions, shaping body, mind, and spirit.
It’s a story written with waves and sweeps, freedom and discipline, sweat and saltwater.Tribute to Daniel Sabbá
This story also carries the legacy of Daniel Sabbá (in memoriam) surfer, TV presenter, and one of the first to truly embody the fusion of surf and Jiu Jitsu. His famous moment at Arpoador became part of history: how Jiu Jitsu stepped into the surf world and never left.
References
This article was inspired by and references the work of Luca Atalla, published in GRACIEMAG (Gracie Magazine No. 30, Year IV, July 1999).
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The Phenom Who Changed the Game and Made History The Phenom Who Changed the Game and Made History
Vitor Belfort enters the UFC Hall of Fame
Some names speak for themselves. If you followed MMA in the 90s or early 2000s, Vitor Belfort is a name you remember. Fast hands, clean knockouts, and that look in his eyes that said he was born for the fight. He stepped into the UFC at just 19 years old and immediately turned heads.
Always in his corner was Carlson Gracie, one of the greatest to ever do it. With Carlson’s guidance, Vitor brought a style that mixed aggression with sharp technique. He wasn’t just a striker. He was a problem. And he carried Brazil on his shoulders every time he stepped into the cage.
Vitor didn't just win. He dominated. His early fights were short, violent, and unforgettable. Fans knew that when the bell rang, something explosive was coming. What made it even more special was that he wasn’t just winning fights. He was showing the world what Brazilian fighting spirit looked like.
As the sport grew, so did Vitor. He adapted. He evolved. Through victories and defeats, he kept showing up. Kept proving that he was more than hype. His legacy came not only from the belts and records but from his ability to keep pushing forward when many would have stopped.
On June 26th, 2025, Vitor Belfort was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame. A moment of recognition that felt overdue. For longtime fans, it was emotional. For Brazil, it was a proud day. And for anyone who grew up watching him fight, it was a reminder of how far the sport has come.
At Atama, we recognize fighters who leave a mark. Vitor is one of them. From the early days with Carlson to the Hall of Fame stage, his path has inspired generations. He showed what happens when talent meets discipline. When courage meets commitment.
Congratulations, Phenom. Thank you for everything you brought to the world of fighting.
Vitor Belfort enters the UFC Hall of Fame
Some names speak for themselves. If you followed MMA in the 90s or early 2000s, Vitor Belfort is a name you remember. Fast hands, clean knockouts, and that look in his eyes that said he was born for the fight. He stepped into the UFC at just 19 years old and immediately turned heads.
Always in his corner was Carlson Gracie, one of the greatest to ever do it. With Carlson’s guidance, Vitor brought a style that mixed aggression with sharp technique. He wasn’t just a striker. He was a problem. And he carried Brazil on his shoulders every time he stepped into the cage.
Vitor didn't just win. He dominated. His early fights were short, violent, and unforgettable. Fans knew that when the bell rang, something explosive was coming. What made it even more special was that he wasn’t just winning fights. He was showing the world what Brazilian fighting spirit looked like.
As the sport grew, so did Vitor. He adapted. He evolved. Through victories and defeats, he kept showing up. Kept proving that he was more than hype. His legacy came not only from the belts and records but from his ability to keep pushing forward when many would have stopped.
On June 26th, 2025, Vitor Belfort was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame. A moment of recognition that felt overdue. For longtime fans, it was emotional. For Brazil, it was a proud day. And for anyone who grew up watching him fight, it was a reminder of how far the sport has come.
At Atama, we recognize fighters who leave a mark. Vitor is one of them. From the early days with Carlson to the Hall of Fame stage, his path has inspired generations. He showed what happens when talent meets discipline. When courage meets commitment.
Congratulations, Phenom. Thank you for everything you brought to the world of fighting.
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TBT: Minotauro vs Roleta, 1999 - A Classic Match and a Mysterious Visitor on the Mat TBT: Minotauro vs Roleta, 1999 - A Classic Match and a Mysterious Visitor on the Mat
Inspired by the amazing article published on Portal do Vale Tudo, we went back in time to remember one of the most iconic matches from the 1999 Jiu Jitsu World Championship.
In the absolute division that year, the Tijuca mat hosted three legends of the gentle art: Rodrigo “Minotauro” Nogueira, Roberto “Roleta” Magalhães, and, as referee, the master Bebeo Duarte.
The semifinal was intense from start to finish. A tough and technical battle, with Roleta winning 4-0. Both athletes were heavily applauded, a tribute to the level of Jiu Jitsu they brought to the mat.
But there was also an unexpected character...
At 8 minutes and 5 seconds, something crossed the mat between the referee’s legs. Many say it was a little rat. Others have more creative theories.
Between grips, sweeps, and details, Jiu Jitsu lived another unforgettable moment, and Atama was there.Atama - We wear history.
Inspired by the amazing article published on Portal do Vale Tudo, we went back in time to remember one of the most iconic matches from the 1999 Jiu Jitsu World Championship.
In the absolute division that year, the Tijuca mat hosted three legends of the gentle art: Rodrigo “Minotauro” Nogueira, Roberto “Roleta” Magalhães, and, as referee, the master Bebeo Duarte.The semifinal was intense from start to finish. A tough and technical battle, with Roleta winning 4-0. Both athletes were heavily applauded, a tribute to the level of Jiu Jitsu they brought to the mat.
But there was also an unexpected character...
At 8 minutes and 5 seconds, something crossed the mat between the referee’s legs. Many say it was a little rat. Others have more creative theories.
Between grips, sweeps, and details, Jiu Jitsu lived another unforgettable moment, and Atama was there.Atama - We wear history.
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Nova Uniao: Two Lineages, One Team That Changed the Game Nova Uniao: Two Lineages, One Team That Changed the Game
Back in 1995, two coaches with different backgrounds decided to join forces. Dedé Pederneiras, from the Carlson Gracie school, and Wendell Alexander, from the Fadda lineage, came together and created Nova Uniao.
Even today, it’s rare to see a team led by professors from such different roots. What seemed unlikely at the time became one of the most important stories in Jiu Jitsu and MMA.
Where They Came From
Dedé was already a respected name. More than just teaching techniques, he built athletes. He created a structure where even kids from tough neighborhoods could train, grow, and compete. That’s where names like José Aldo, Renan Barão, and Leo Santos came from.
Wendell was all about the foundation. Always on the mat, teaching with patience and an eye for detail. Guys like Robson Moura, Wagnney Fabiano, and Bruno Bastos started with him. His training was calm, consistent, and built to last. The kind of teaching that sticks.
Each one had his own way, but they shared the same goal: build fighters with responsibility, from white belt to black. That attitude played a big role in how the team evolved.
What the Team Achieve
In IBJJF competitions, Nova Uniao quickly made a name for itself, especially in the lighter divisions. Their athletes showed up with solid timing, good positioning, and sharp technique built through honest training. Some of them became world champions. It wasn’t hype. It was the result of doing the work every single day.
When they moved into MMA, there was no rush to adjust. They were already ready. Nova Uniao fighters showed up with tight grappling, smart fight IQ, and real conditioning. They stepped in to win, and they did.
Still Active, Still True to the Roots
Today, Nova Uniao is still going strong. They’ve got schools in several countries and have formed hundreds of black belts. But numbers don’t tell the whole story. What really matters is the kind of Jiu Jitsu they continue to teach.
Dedé is still in front, leading training and bringing up new names. Wendell is still on the mat, teaching with the same calm energy he’s always had. No spotlight, just work.
Our Respect
At Atama Europe, we make it a point to recognize everything Nova Uniao represents. What Dedé and Wendell built wasn’t just a team. It became a culture. They opened doors, set the tone, and showed what it means to live Jiu Jitsu with purpose.
This isn’t just a throwback. It’s a thank you.
If you value tradition on and off the mat, check out our gear and train with what real history looks like.
Atama. We wear history.
Back in 1995, two coaches with different backgrounds decided to join forces. Dedé Pederneiras, from the Carlson Gracie school, and Wendell Alexander, from the Fadda lineage, came together and created Nova Uniao.
Even today, it’s rare to see a team led by professors from such different roots. What seemed unlikely at the time became one of the most important stories in Jiu Jitsu and MMA.
Where They Came From
Dedé was already a respected name. More than just teaching techniques, he built athletes. He created a structure where even kids from tough neighborhoods could train, grow, and compete. That’s where names like José Aldo, Renan Barão, and Leo Santos came from.
Wendell was all about the foundation. Always on the mat, teaching with patience and an eye for detail. Guys like Robson Moura, Wagnney Fabiano, and Bruno Bastos started with him. His training was calm, consistent, and built to last. The kind of teaching that sticks.
Each one had his own way, but they shared the same goal: build fighters with responsibility, from white belt to black. That attitude played a big role in how the team evolved.
What the Team Achieve
In IBJJF competitions, Nova Uniao quickly made a name for itself, especially in the lighter divisions. Their athletes showed up with solid timing, good positioning, and sharp technique built through honest training. Some of them became world champions. It wasn’t hype. It was the result of doing the work every single day.
When they moved into MMA, there was no rush to adjust. They were already ready. Nova Uniao fighters showed up with tight grappling, smart fight IQ, and real conditioning. They stepped in to win, and they did.
Still Active, Still True to the Roots
Today, Nova Uniao is still going strong. They’ve got schools in several countries and have formed hundreds of black belts. But numbers don’t tell the whole story. What really matters is the kind of Jiu Jitsu they continue to teach.
Dedé is still in front, leading training and bringing up new names. Wendell is still on the mat, teaching with the same calm energy he’s always had. No spotlight, just work.
Our Respect
At Atama Europe, we make it a point to recognize everything Nova Uniao represents. What Dedé and Wendell built wasn’t just a team. It became a culture. They opened doors, set the tone, and showed what it means to live Jiu Jitsu with purpose.
This isn’t just a throwback. It’s a thank you.
If you value tradition on and off the mat, check out our gear and train with what real history looks like.
Atama. We wear history.