In the wake of serious allegations that have fractured one of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu’s most prominent teams, an Atos affiliate leader who publicly backed Andre Galvao has launched an ambitious free training initiative for women across Europe.
Jonathas Eliaquim, head instructor at Atos Zurich, announced the “Atos Pink Team” program on Valentine’s Day, offering four free Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes per week to women who have experienced “any type of unwanted situation.” The initiative spans three European locations, Zurich and Basel in Switzerland and Combourg in France, with over 200 spots already allocated.
“This movement is not about protecting women because they are weak, and it is not against men. It is about standing in their corner because every single man & woman was born from a woman.”
The program requires no membership fees, contracts or explanations from participants. Eliaquim stated the initiative represents a combined investment exceeding three million dollars over six years, with a stated goal of developing 300 female black belts during that period. The effort is sponsored by ZHU Inc., a company Eliaquim referenced as enabling the program’s free structure.
“If you need this program, it’s free. If you believe in this mission, you can help sponsor a woman’s journey.”
The timing has drawn immediate criticism online. The program’s launch comes just days after Eliaquim posted a controversial statement of unwavering support for Andre Galvao and Angelica Galvao, even as Atos headquarters in San Diego moved to separate the couple from all organizational roles and high profile competitors departed en masse.
Alexa Herse, who trained at Atos since childhood, made detailed public allegations against Andre Galvao describing a pattern of inappropriate conduct over six months. She stated that Galvao touched her inappropriately during training sessions and repeatedly commented on her body and appearance. When she sought help from Angelica Galvao, Herse said she was told:
“not to say anything”
and advised 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 confirmed she has filed a report with local law enforcement.
Eliaquim’s initial statement defending the Galvaos cut sharply against the prevailing response within the Jiu-Jitsu community.
“I will stand by the Galvão family and not turn my back on them. Andre Galvao is an incredible champion, dedicated instructor, and man of integrity. These unfounded rumors do not define him or his legacy.”
The post drew such intense backlash that Eliaquim disabled comments. Similar reactions forced him to lock comments on his Pink Team announcements as well.
The exodus from Atos has been comprehensive. Bruno Frazatto, JT Torres, Dom Bell, Lucas Pinheiro, Gustavo Batista, Lucas “Hulk” Barbosa and Kaynan Duarte have all publicly announced their departures. Many cited fundamental disagreements with leadership’s actions.
“I would like to say that we do not agree with and do not condone the actions taken by the team’s leadership. This type of attitude is unacceptable “
Kaynan Duarte said in a released formal statement.
The approach bears resemblance to crisis management tactics employed during past controversies in the sport. Following a highly publicized 2013 case, Lloyd Irvin launched a similar women’s empowerment program that critics characterized as an attempt to reshape public perception.
Atos headquarters issued a statement announcing the immediate and indefinite separation of Andre and Angelica Galvao from their position and all associated roles within the organization, stating they will no longer be involved in the teaching, administrative work or operations of Atos. Angelica Galvao has since made attempts to usher in a comeback but the American audiences remain unconviced given her specific role in covering up the incident.
