Professor Enrique comes from the prestige lineage of Gracie Barra New Mexico team. He has over 24 years experience in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Professor Enrique began his training with the legendary Master Rickson Gracie for over 4 1/2 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 Roberto “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 dedicates his life to learning and teaching Jiu-Jitsu.
Professor Enrique has experience competing in sport Jiu-Jitsu and encourages his students to do the same.
Professor Albert has been training since 2013 under the Tutelage of Professor Enrique, and going from white belt to black belt under one professor and one academy is something he is extremely proud of. When he first started his journey in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Albert’s main focus point was competition. Starting from white to purple belt, he was competing in tournaments and local super fights. It was at brown belt that he realized that his focus now was teaching others the art of Jiu-Jitsu.
Professor Albert finds the most joy from teaching Jiu-Jitsu, sharing his love and passion for BJJ to fully embrace the Gracie Barra motto “Jiu-Jitsu for everyone.” What makes his BJJ teachings unique is how he combined his previous High School wrestling experience with a conceptualized thought process to gain an overall understanding and mastery of moves and techniques, which in return makes it very distinct.
Completely devoted to learning and teaching Jiu-Jitsu, the importance of martial arts and the amazing benefits they have to offer in and out of the academy.
Professor Chris was born and raised here in Tucson, AZ. He began training in martial arts in 2003 when he started Muay Thai kickboxing and was introduced to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu shortly after where he trained primarily in NoGi Jiu-Jitsu with professional mixed martial artists. It wasn’t until September of 2013 that Chris met Professor Enrique only a few months after he opened the GB Tucson academy and he decided to make a commitment to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu through the traditional belt system.
Professor Chris was promoted to Black Belt in April of 2023. All belts were awarded to him by his one and only Professor, Enrique Villegas. Something that Professor Chris is very proud of. He has a strong emphasis on the concepts behind the techniques he teaches and has a fun and unique way of delivering his lesson.
At Gracie Barra Tucson, we hold our instructors to the highest standards of excellence. As part of this commitment, all professors are required to renew their Instructor Certification Program annually. This program serves as a testament to their dedication and ensures that our black belt professors are fully aligned with the teaching philosophies of Master Carlos Gracie Jr. and embody the values, standards, and methods of Gracie Barra.
The Instructor Certification Program at Gracie Barra Tucson encompasses a comprehensive process. It includes a thorough background check to verify the qualifications and suitability of our instructors. This step is crucial in maintaining the trust and safety of our students, creating a secure training environment.
In addition, the program includes CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) training for instructors. By equipping them with this life-saving skill, we prioritize the well-being of our students and ensure that our instructors are prepared to respond effectively in emergency situations. This certification demonstrates our commitment to fostering a safe and supportive training environment.
Gracie Barra Tucson Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Professors
AT GRACIE BARRA TUCSON, OUR BRAZILIAN JIU JITSU PROGRAMS ARE THOUGHTFULLY TAILORED TO DIFFERENT AGE GROUPS, ENSURING AN OPTIMAL EXPERIENCE FOR ALL OUR STUDENTS. REGARDLESS OF YOUR SKILL LEVEL, WE HAVE A PROGRAM THAT CATERS TO YOUR NEEDS AND GOALS.
