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Enrique Villegas
Enrique Villegas
Head Instructor
2nd Degree Black Belt
Professor Enrique comes from the prestige lineage of Gracie Barra New Mexico team. He has over 22 years experience in Jiu-Jitsu. Professor Enrique began his training with legendary Master Rickson Gracie for over 4 years and then made his way to New Mexico to train under American world champion Alberto Crane. After Professor Crane left for California, Enrique continued his training with Professor Robert “Tussa” Alencar. Professor Enrique received his Black Belt from multiple world champion Roberto “Tussa” Alencar.
When teaching classes or correcting students the emphasis on details makes Enrique’s classes and coaching very distinct. Professor Enrique really enjoys teaching kids and making the classes fun! Professor Enrique has experience competing in sport Jiu-Jitsu and encourages his students to do the same.
“My true passion comes from teaching and coaching. Also, Self-defense has also always been #1 in my book and I make sure all my students embrace it. I really love that Jiu-Jitsu can change lives for the better. Spreading Jiu-Jitsu and serving the Tucson communities is my main goal going forward. I plan to change lives through Jiu-Jitsu.”
Professor ~ Enrique Villegas
Al Guinee
Al Guinee
Instructor
Black Belt
Professor Al has been part of the Gracie Barra Tucson family since we opened our doors 8 years ago now. He has been learning Jiu-Jitsu for a total of 14 years. Professor Al is not only a natural leader but also a dynamic teacher. He not only helps teach at Gracie Barra Tucson but during his work as a police sergeant, he is the main instructor at the Tucson police academy. Al has brought a lot of knowledge to the academy, that he is now leading our grappling and striking class. He brings a work ethic we all can respect. One of Al’s goals is to have a school of his own. Professor Al also enjoys competing, as he has won several tournaments. He is also a true hero Veteran.
Notable Competition Achievements: 2009 Pan Ams Bronze medal blue belt, 2010 Arizona Open Bronze Blue belt, 2012 Naga Silver in GI and No GI Purple , Grapplers Quest Gold and Silver in GI Purple.
Professor Paulo Cezar Pinheiro “Drive-In”
Professor Paulo Cezar Pinheiro “Drive-In”
Chief Instructor
4th Degree Black Belt
Professor Paulo needs no introduction. He is a multi world champion and has also produced multi world champions under his teachings. He has been training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for over 25+ years and received his black belt under our Master – Carlos Gracie Jr. His home town is Rio de Janeiro the heart land of where Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu originated. Professor Paulo has a very technical and unique approach to the art of Jiu-Jitsu.
Mr. Alves Pinheiro has achieved impressive rankings in some of the most distinguished Jiu-Jitsu competitions in the world. Among his most recent accomplishments are:
1st place rankings in the following events:
2013 FJJRIO XIV Rolls Gracie Cup in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
2013 FJJRIO V Cup Count Koma & Infanti in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
2013 European Open Jiu-Jitsu Championships IBJJF in Lisbon, Portugal
2014 European Open Jiu-Jitsu Championships IBJJF in Lisbon, Portugal
2016 Master International Jiu-Jitsu IBJJF Championships in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
2017 Master International Jiu-Jitsu IBJJF Championships in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
2nd and 3rd place rankings at the following events:
2012 FJJRIO XIII Rolls Gracie Championship in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – 2nd place
2012 FJJRIO V Copa Carlson Gracie Championship in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – 2ndplace
2012 IBJJF Black Senior World Championship in Long Beach, CA – 3rd place
2013 IBJJF Black Senior World Championship in Long Beach, CA – 3rd place
2016 North American BJJ Federation Championship in Daly City – 2nd place
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