GFTEAM

GFTeam: A Legacy of Jiu-Jitsu Excellence

Founded in 1996 at the Gama Filho University, Taquara campus, in the northern side of the city of Rio de Janeiro, BRAZIL. GFTeam began with the encouragement of professors Pedro Gama Filho and Paulo Jardim. They were instrumental in supporting the pioneering efforts of professors Júlio César, Marcus Bello, and Alexandre Baraúna, who took the first steps in building and expanding the jiu-jitsu team.

It’s important to highlight the importance of Professors Pedro Gama Filho and Paulo Jardim on this process, that all the time offered support to the team and our athletes, giving scholarships, covering their needs as they could, contributing to the team’s growth.

Leaderhip

Through the leadership of professors Júlio César, Marcus Bello, and Alexandre Baraúna, the team began producing black belts and establishing additional branches, spreading throughout Rio de Janeiro, across Brazil, and internationally.

About GFTEAM

About

With the professionalization of the team, the focus expanded to training athletes not only for jiu-jitsu but also for MMA. This shift required a name change to distance the MMA aspect from an academic institution. Following the passing of professor Pedro Gama Filho the team underwent a transition and reorganization, emerging as GFTeam (Grappling Fight Team).

Within two years, GFTeam had solidified its position, continuing its mission and expanding its reach.

Today, GFTeam boasts over 250 representatives worldwide and has ambitious plans for further growth. Its headquarters is now located in the Méier neighborhood in Rio de Janeiro’s north side, featuring facilities that cater to all its athletes’ needs.

The GFTEAM Founders

Master Julio Cesar

Master Alexandre Barauna

Master Marcus Bello

Master Julio Cesar is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) practitioner with over 50 years of experience who holds a RED | WHITE 8th Degree belt.

An international master champion, two-time IBJJF World champion, two-times Pan American champion, eight-times Brazilian champion and 21 times champion of Rio de Janeiro State;

Master Julio Cesar is a renowned coach as the founder and team leader of GFTEAM

Master Marcus Bello

Master Alexandre Barauna

Master Marcus Bello

Master Marcus Bello, one of the key players on the GFTeam, is a Judo and 6th Degree Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt.

Bello is well-known for his brilliant top game, which has helped him defeat many of the sport's biggest names, including Marcelinho Garcia and Tererê.

Master Bello is the Founder and Owner of DIVISION ONE BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU in Katy, Texas

Master Alexandre Barauna

Master Alexandre Baraúna, is a Brazilian black belt in jiu jitsu who trained under Ricardo de La Riva and Júlio César and a senior member of the renowned jiu jitsu association

Master Baraúna has contributed to the increased visibility of elite sportsmen like Luiz Néstor, Alex Costa, and Ricardo Evangelista, to mention a few.