Atos Jiu Jitsu HQ is scrambling to distance itself from founders and owners Andre Galvao and Angelica Galvao amid serious allegations, but one major affiliate took the opposite approach.
Atos Zurich, led by head instructor Jonathas Eliaquim, publicly declared unwavering support for the embattled couple.
While top competitors fled and the San Diego headquarters announced it was separating the Galvaos immediately and indefinitely from all organizational roles, Eliaquim posted a message of solidarity that cut against the prevailing tide.
“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.”
“We believe in justice, truth, and the importance of standing by those who have given so much to our community. Our loyalty remains with him, his family. I know the values they uphold.”
Eliaquim’s post drew immediate backlash online, forcing him to disable comments.
The controversy centers on detailed allegations made by Alexa Herse, who trained at Atos since childhood. In her public statement, Herse described a pattern of inappropriate conduct over six months, alleging that Galvao touched her inappropriately during training sessions and repeatedly commented on her body and her appearance.
Perhaps equally concerning was Herse’s account of seeking help from Angelica Galvao.
“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.”
“I have filed a report with local law enforcement.”
The exodus from Team Atos has been swift and comprehensive. Bruno Frazatto, JT Torres, Dom Bell, Lucas Pinheiro, and Gustavo Batista are among the notable departures.
“Through this announcement, we are informing that we are no longer part of Atos Jiu Jitsu… 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 and makes our permanence in the team unsustainable.”
The Atos HQ statement arrived only after days of high profile departures and mounting public pressure.
“We are deeply saddened with recent events and circumstances and after careful consideration ATOS has made the decision to immediately and indefinitely separate Andre Galvao and Angelica Galvao from their position and all associated roles within the organization.”
“They will no longer be involved in the teaching, administrative work, or operations of Atos.”
“We are moving quickly to engage with a third party to investigate these allegations.”
Yet the statement’s credibility was immediately questioned. Observers noted the account making the announcement had Andre Galvao as its profile picture. The Atos HQ Instagram account also removed close to 300 posts overnight, reportedly all featuring Andre or Angelica Galvao.
The corporate structure raises further questions about whether meaningful separation is even possible. Andre Galvao co founded the team with Ramon Lemos, and the San Diego headquarters has long been synonymous with the Galvao family. California Secretary of State records reveal that Atos Jiu Jitsu LLC lists Andre Galvao as its sole registered agent.
Andre Galvao released his own statement categorically denying the allegations.
“These are false rumors.”
“They originated from 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.”
