Conversations with Marcelo Cavalcanti

Today we’d like to introduce you to Marcelo Cavalcanti.

Hi Marcelo, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I am the owner and head coach at the Marcelo Cavalcanti Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy. I was born and raised in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and began training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 1992 following my brothers lead. I began training with Grandmaster Carlson Gracie and instructors Ricardo Liborio, Marcus Vinicius and also with creator of the half guard, Roberto ”Gordo” Correia. I arrived to the United States 1998 to continue training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at the Rigan Machado Academy. After much hard work and dedicated training, competing, and teaching, in 2003 I was awarded his Black Belt under Rigan Machado.

The secret to my success has always been my students. I strongly believe that without the students, i myself would not be able to be in the place I am today. Together, my students and I have become champions and won numerous titles in the most world renowned tournaments. We have won titles in Grappler’s Quest, Worlds, Pan-Americans, and in the National and International tournaments. All of my students have learned to love Jiu-Jitsu with as much passion as I do. They are growing not only as Jiu-Jitsu players, but as honorable individuals and sharing the knowledge I have acquired to others.

Achievements in 1st Place

1st place champion of the IBJJF Fresno Internacional Open 2019

1st place champion of the IBJJF Las Vegas Internacional Open 2019

1st place champion of the 2nd AXE Cup of Jiu-Jitsu

1st place champion of the 2nd Copa Company Cup of Jiu-Jitsu

1st place champion of the 5th Socal BJJ Championship-Super fight

1st place champion of the 2nd Grappling Games National Championships

1st Nationals Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu 2004

1st place champion of the for GI and NO GI 2003

1st place champion of the 1st Jean-Jacques Machado Grappling Submission Tournament 2001

1st place champion of the California State Tournament of Jiu-Jitsu 2000

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Running a small business like a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy comes with constant challenges—balancing expenses, managing memberships, and maintaining high-quality instruction while staying true to the community spirit. The impact of COVID-19 made things even tougher, forcing closures, membership drops, and financial strain that many academies are still recovering from. Rebuilding has meant starting almost from scratch—reconnecting with students, restoring trust, and reigniting the passion that keeps the mats alive. Despite the obstacles, the resilience and support within the BJJ community continue to drive the comeback, one class at a time.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is more than just a martial art—it’s an art form that teaches patience, strategy, and self-awareness. Each technique is like a brushstroke, shaping not only skill but character. Sharing BJJ with the community is vital because it builds confidence, teaches respect, and instills self-discipline in both kids and adults. Through consistent training and perseverance, people learn to face challenges on and off the mat with calm and determination, making BJJ a powerful tool for personal growth and community strength.

My favorite part of teaching Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is seeing students succeed—watching their hard work, confidence, and discipline grow both on and off the mat. There’s nothing more rewarding than sharing this art with new generations and witnessing how it shapes their lives. Each student who learns, improves, and carries forward the values of BJJ helps keep the art alive and strengthens the bond within our community.

So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
One of the biggest financial strains for a small academy like MCBJJ comes from the high costs of tournament participation. Our team competes in over 20 tournaments each year, which involves significant expenses for registration fees, travel, lodging, meals, and uniforms. These events are essential for our students’ growth and experience, but they can be financially challenging to sustain. Donations are always appreciated and go a long way in helping our athletes continue to represent MCBJJ with pride. Contributions can be made directly through our online store at mcbjj.com.

Pricing:

• $175/mo

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.mcbjj.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcbjjacademy/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MarceloCavalcantiBJJ
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mcbjjacademy9636