Professor “Marinho” Vauvenargues Vicentini,  a fifth-degree black belt in jiu-jitsu under Master Carlson Gracie, will have completed his time for Sixth degree on April 15, 2023.

He received his black belt directly from Master Carlson Gracie in April 1999, which is a rare honor only bestowed upon a select few athletes.

Additionally, Marinho taught at the prestigious Carlson Gracie Club in Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro from 1993 to 2000.

For over 30 years, Marinho has gained extensive experience in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), self-defense, Judo, and MMA. He served as the Head of Defense Tactics and Jiu-Jitsu at the Federal Police Academy in Rio de Janeiro – Brazil –  from 1999 to 2015.

Having spent 16 years as a head instructor at the Federal Police Academy, Marinho relocated to Napa, California with his family. Prior to settling in Napa, he traveled the world coaching and cornering for several MMA and BJJ champions. Marinho is thrilled to bring his world-class martial arts expertise to the Carlson Gracie Napa Valley Academy and be part of the growing and diverse Napa community.

The Academy and Professor Marinho are dedicated to providing a positive environment for students, both adults and children, to learn, practice, and grow with a focus on self-empowerment, family, and homage through authentic Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.