From Santos
to Austin.
The first official IJJ academy outside Brazil.
Santos, Brazil, where it began
Founded in 1995 by Master Elcio Figueiredo in Santos-SP, Brazil, Integração Jiu-Jitsu has shaped champions, built a tight-knit community, and stayed true to the roots of the art.
Elcio began his martial arts journey as an accomplished Judo competitor before transitioning to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under the legendary Rolls Gracie, training with him until brown belt. After Rolls' untimely passing, he continued under Carlson Gracie, who awarded him his black belt and placed him in one of the most influential lineages in the sport.
In Santos, Elcio launched a Jiu-Jitsu program at the traditional Japanese club Golden Star (Estrela de Ouro), starting IJJ in 1995. Under his leadership, Integração grew into a powerhouse, winning four consecutive State Championships and producing world champions who began their journey with us, including Marcus "Buchecha" Almeida, Rodrigo Cavaca, and Leonardo Nogueira.
Now that tradition lives on in Austin. Whether you're training for competition, fitness, or personal growth, you're welcome here.
Gabriel Martins.
Gabriel Martins began training Jiu-Jitsu in 2002 at the IJJ headquarters in Santos, Brazil, under the guidance of Master Elcio Figueiredo. What started simply as a way to stay active quickly became a lifelong passion. Competition became an important part of his journey, earning victories at some of the biggest tournaments in the world early in his career, including becoming an IBJJF World Champion.
With nearly 20 years of experience teaching kids and adults, Gabriel has always believed that being a great instructor goes far beyond teaching techniques. His approach is centered around friendship, personal growth, and creating an environment where every student feels welcomed and supported.
After years of teaching and traveling to the United States for competitions, Gabriel saw an opportunity to bring the IJJ culture and philosophy to Austin. In 2016, he founded IJJ Austin, the first IJJ academy outside of Brazil, and has been focused ever since on teaching, developing students, and building a strong Jiu-Jitsu community in Austin.