instructor

JOAO PAULO FERREIRA ( JP )

Head Instructor

Born in Rio de Janeiro, Professor Joao Paulo de Fatima Alves Ferreira started training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu at 11 years old. He passed through all of his belt levels in 12 years, and was awarded his black belt under Alliance Black Belt Professor Tiago Rocha.

Professor Joao Paulo has been competing his entire jiu jitsu career with the some of the most elite jiu jitsu athletes. After competing in the Brazilian UFC trials, Joao Paulo decided to move his training and teaching to America.


Joao Paulo has a great passion for teaching Brazilian Jiu Jitsu to his students. Whether his students are looking for fitness training, self-defense, or to become the next world champions, he is there devoting all of his time and attention to them, on and off the mat.


Professor Ferriera takes time and care into developing the lesson plans for beginner and advanced level students. While being a dedicated Professor, JP is also focused on actively competing at the highest levels of competition in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

  • Pan Ams Champion
  • Brazilian National Champion
  • 2x Abu Dhabi World Trials Champion
  • 2x Brazilian Center West Champion
  • 5x Goiânia State Champion
  • 2nd place World Cup
  • 3x New York Open Champion
  • 3rd Place NOGI Pan Ams
  • 3rd Place Atlanta Open
  • Chicago Open Champion