Pedro Sauer

Pedro Sauer, an 8th degree coral belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, is a highly respected figure in the martial arts world. Born and raised in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Sauer began his martial arts journey at the tender age of five, starting with boxing and later expanding his repertoire to include judo and taekwondo.

At the age of 15, Sauer's life took a pivotal turn when his friend, Rickson Gracie, invited him to train jiu-jitsu with his younger brother, Royler Gracie. This experience convinced Sauer of the effectiveness of jiu-jitsu, and he began training at the Gracie academy the very next day.

Sauer's training under the tutelage of Helio and Rickson Gracie took place during a crucial time when Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu was transitioning from an obscure art to a worldwide phenomenon. While pursuing a double major in Economics and Business Administration, Sauer worked as a stockbroker in Brazil for eleven years before deciding to move to the United States to teach jiu-jitsu.

As part of the first generation of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instructors to bring the art to the United States, Sauer played a significant role in the growth and popularity of BJJ. He lived and trained daily with the Gracie brothers, their father Helio, and other notable figures such as Renzo Gracie and the Machado Brothers.

In December 1990, Sauer moved to Utah, where he began pioneering Gracie Jiu-Jitsu in the American southwest. He established the Pedro Sauer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Association, which has grown to become one of the largest and most respected Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Associations in the world, with over 100 academies under his guidance.

Sauer's contributions to the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu have been widely recognized. In 2005, he was voted the "Best Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Instructor" in the world by an online poll conducted by the Abu Dhabi Combat Club (ADCC) website. He is highly sought after for his seminars and workshops, and has developed numerous high-level black belts throughout his career.

In 2006, Master Sauer relocated to Herndon, Virginia, where he established the world headquarters for the Pedro Sauer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Association. His lineage traces back to the legendary Mitsuyo Maeda, through Carlos Gracie, Helio Gracie, and Rickson Gracie, making him a direct link to the very roots of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Pedro Sauer's dedication, expertise, and pioneering spirit have made him an iconic figure in the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and his contributions continue to shape the art's growth and development around the globe.

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Amilcar "Mica" Cipili

Amilcar "Mica" Cipili, a 5th degree black belt, is a true legend in the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. With an astonishing record of more than 200 titles in major competitions, Mica has established himself as one of the most successful and respected competitors in the history of the sport.

Born in Rio Grande do Sul, in the southern region of Brazil, Mica's martial arts journey began with a diverse background in Capoeira, Boxing, Kung Fu, and Judo. However, it was after watching a Vale Tudo competition in Sao Paulo that he discovered his true passion for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Recognizing the effectiveness and reality of the art, Mica dedicated himself to mastering the gentle art.

Mica's jiu-jitsu journey led him to train under some of the most renowned masters in the world. He began his training in Brazil and then continued under the tutelage of Pedro Sauer in Utah, where he progressed to the level of purple belt. In California, Mica had the privilege of training with the legendary Rickson Gracie for many years, as well as with Rigan Machado. Currently, Mica holds a 5th degree black belt under the esteemed Royler Gracie.

Throughout his career, Mica has trained and coached some of the biggest names in jiu-jitsu and MMA, including UFC owner Lorenzo Fertitta and his family. His exceptional technical skills and teaching ability have earned him recognition and respect within the jiu-jitsu community.

As a competitor, Mica's record is unparalleled. Since the beginning of his competition career in 1994, he has competed in most tournaments in Brazil, the United States, and around the world, amassing an incredible collection of titles. Mica's competitive achievements include being a multiple-time World Champion, Pan-Am Champion, National Champion, and European Champion, both in gi and no-gi divisions. He has also won numerous other prestigious tournaments, such as the ADCC trials, Rickson Gracie Tournament, and the Machado Tournament, to name just a few.

In addition to his jiu-jitsu training, Mica also dedicates time to studying Judo and Wrestling, constantly striving to become a complete fighter. His well-rounded skill set has allowed him to achieve victory in all four of his MMA fights.

As an instructor, Mica has taught classes in Brazil, Utah, and California, including at the prestigious Machado Academy in Pasadena. Currently, he is the head instructor at The Gracie Jiu Jitsu Las Vegas, where he shares his passion for the gentle art with his students. Mica's love for jiu-jitsu and his ability to transfer the skills he has learned from the great masters to his students in an efficient, simple, and professional manner have made him a sought-after instructor.

With over 30 years of experience in sport jiu-jitsu and an unrivaled competitive record, Amilcar "Mica" Cipili continues to inspire and influence practitioners around the world. His dedication, mastery, and contributions to the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu have solidified his position as a true legend in the sport.