Andre Galvao, founder of Team Atos, has released a statement addressing allegations of inappropriate conduct that have led to a significant departure of team members from one of the sport’s most prominent academies.
In a written statement dated February 1st, 2026, Galvao categorically denied the accusations, calling them false rumors that have circulated online alleging inappropriate conduct with female students. The statement, posted to social media with notably disabled comments, details his commitment to maintaining a safe, respectful and transparent training environment.
“I have dedicated my life to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and to building academies where people can train safely, confidently and with dignity. I’m proud of our culture: respect, discipline and professionalism on and off the mats.”
The legendary grappler suggested the allegations stem from disgruntled former staff members upset about recent administrative and financial changes.
“This all started by someone who recently left ATOS before this whole thing happened and this person isn’t even stated in the rumors but obviously has a personal vendetta due to financial cuts and administrative decisions.”
Galvao announced his intention to pursue legal action, saying he would take the necessary measures to protect our community and my family’s name and assured that soon everything will come to light.
However, the situation took a more serious turn when Alexa Herse, a young woman who trained at Atos since childhood, released her own detailed statement challenging Galvao‘s characterization of events.
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In a multi slide statement posted to social media, Alexa Herse announced:
“Moving forward I am no longer associated with Atos Jiu Jitsu. This is something I never imagined I would have to say, as I have spent most of my childhood and teenage years dedicated to this team. But now unfortunately I have no choice but to step away and speak out.”
Perhaps equally troubling, Herse alleged that when she reached out to Angelica Galvao, Andre‘s wife and BJJ black belt, she was met with silence and discouragement.
“I reached out to Angelica Galvão, someone I have always looked up to as a second mother and who has known me and mentored me since I was a kid. Not only did she do nothing about it, she told me not to say anything and told me that if it’s wrong, you have to at least act like it’s right. And don’t bite the hand that feeds you.”
Herse expressed profound disappointment at this response, stating that Angelica chose to ignore me, silence me and protect her husband and that this makes her just as responsible.
The emotional weight of the situation was evident in Herse‘s statement:
“I grew up training at Atos, and it was Andre Galvão who promoted me to grey belt as a child. I’m beyond heartbroken. I once looked up to him not only as my professor but as a hero and a father figure, and to know that he would do this not only to me, but to multiple other people is beyond devastating.”
Herse emphasized that coming forward was not a decision made lightly:
“I never wanted this. I have nothing to gain by making this public. I’m choosing to leave behind all my friends and my family. This is my truth. And I know for a fact that I am not the only affected person of this.”
“I have filed a report with local law enforcement.”
The situation has already resulted in several high profile departures from Team Atos. The latest to depart from Team Atos is Bruno Frazatto. The exodus appears to have begun before the allegations became public lending credence to claims that concerns had been raised internally.
Community reaction has been divided. Some have called for patience and evidence before drawing conclusions while others have pointed to the culture within Brazilian Jiu Jitsu that sometimes elevates instructors to an unassailable status.
Galvao has indicated he will address concerns through proper channels rather than social media while Herse has encouraged others who may have had similar experiences to come forward.
OFFICIAL STATEMENT
February 1st, 2026
Over the past few days, false rumors have circulated online alleging inappropriate conduct with female students. These claims are untrue and we are taking the proper legal steps to protect the integrity of ATOS.
I have dedicated my life to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and to building academies where people can train safely, confidently and with dignity. I’m proud of our culture: respect, discipline and professionalism on and off the mats. Our mat space is surrounded by staff, students and cameras and we have always worked to maintain a safe, respectful and transparent training environment.
I will not engage in social media disputes, however, I will take the necessary measures to protect our community and my family’s name and I assure you that soon everything will come to light, especially the facts on why a few staff members left due to recent administrative and financial changes.
This all started by someone who recently left ATOS before this whole thing happened and this person isn’t even stated in the rumors but obviously has a personal vendetta due to financial cuts and administrative decisions. Which aches our hearts to see such devious ways by someone who has been benefited so much through the years and who should have at least the minimum amount of gratitude and respect for the team.
If you are a current student or parent and you have any concern or a question, I encourage you to reach out directly. We will take any genuine concern seriously and address it through the proper channels, not through vague accusations on social media.
To everyone that has supported our academy and our team: thank you. We will continue focusing on what matters, providing world class instruction in a respectful environment and keeping our academy a place where all students can grow.
In the end I have faith that the truth will prevail. I stand alongside my family, Sarah and Angelica through all tribulations. God bless you all. Andre Galvao
