The International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation has issued an official statement following allegations of inappropriate conduct against Andre Galvao, founder of Team Atos.
In their statement, the IBJJF outlined existing protocols that have been in place for several years, including mandatory SafeSport certification for all black belts seeking certificate or degree renewal. This training program focuses on identifying, preventing and reporting inappropriate behavior while recognizing professional red flags within academy settings.
The federation also highlighted their requirement for comprehensive background checks on all black belts responsible for gyms or associations along with their direct assistant coaches.
“The IBJJF unequivocally condemns all forms of abusive behavior and unprofessional conduct. We do not condone or support any actions that threaten the well-being of Jiu-Jitsu students or the reputation of our sport.”
Addressing the specific allegations that emerged this past weekend, the IBJJF stated they are treating these accusations with the highest priority and are currently monitoring developments while gathering information to determine appropriate action.
The federation reiteratedthat student safety and the integrity of martial arts instruction remain non-negotiable priorities, pledging to continue evolving their protocols to protect the community.
This is a middle-of-the-road statement that heavily relies on how the court of law proceeds with the case. It is worth noting that the IBJJF instituted mandatory background checks years ago, but every now and then we receive tips about convicted individuals competing, which makes it unclear how diligently these checks are actually applied.
Alexa Herse, who trained at Atos since childhood, released a detailed account alleging a six-month pattern of inappropriate behavior by Andre Galvao, including unwanted physical contact during training sessions and repeated comments about her appearance.
“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 described specific incidents, including claims that Galvao would interrupt her training to partner with her himself. She stated that during these sessions, he made inappropriate sounds in her ear while he was on top of her and in another instance when his head was very close to her head he licked her ear.
Perhaps equally concerning to many in the community was Herse’s account of seeking help from Angelica Galvao, Andre’s wife and a respected black belt in her own right. According to Herse, Angelica not only failed to act but actively discouraged her from speaking out.
“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 confirmed she has filed a report with local law enforcement and encouraged others with similar experiences to come forward.
Galvao released his own statement on February 1st, categorically denying all allegations and characterizing them as false rumors. Galvao lost roughly a thousand fans in the last couple of days.
Several prominent figures have announced their departure from the Atos affiliation, including Bruno Frazatto. Most recently, JT Torres confirmed his team would be leaving Atos, marking another high-profile defection from the organization.
Official Statement
For years, the IBJJF has been committed to maintaining the safety and integrity of the Jiu-Jitsu community by proactively identifying and removing individuals who compromise our standards. Our mission is to ensure that Jiu Jitsu remains a secure environment for every practitioner, and we have maintained a consistent policy of permanently removing individuals who breach these principles.
In order to uphold this commitment, the following requirements for registered members have been in place for several years.
• SafeSport Certification: All black belts must complete SafeSport training upon applying for a certificate or degree renewal. This program is essential for identifying, preventing, and reporting s**ual misconduct and recognizing professional red flags within an academy.
• Mandatory Background Checks: We enforce rigorous background checks for all Black belts that are responsible for a gym or an association and their direct assistant coaches to ensure only those in good standing lead our community.
The IBJJF unequivocally condemns all forms of abusive behavior and unprofessional conduct. We do not condone or support any actions that threaten the well-being of Jiu-Jitsu students or the reputation of our sport.
Regarding the reports and testimonies this past weekend, we are treating these accusations with the highest priority. We are currently monitoring all relevant developments and gathering information to take decisive action. The safety of students and the integrity of martial arts instruction are non-negotiable, and we will continue to evolve our protocols to protect our community.
