Mestre Batata

Mestre Batata, a lifelong practitioner of capoeira from the vibrant streets of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, has dedicated over three decades to mastering and teaching martial arts. He earned the esteemed title of Mestre in 1995 after years of training, and his influence extends far beyond capoeira.

Beginning his journey at just eight years old, Mestre Batata quickly became an influential figure in his community. He founded the Associação do Grupo Capoeira Besouro Espírito Santo in 1991, where he used capoeira to empower at-risk youth, guiding them away from drugs and towards education. Mestre Batata has a special gift for working with children, creating a positive and inspiring environment for their growth.

Mestre Batata began training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu around 2012, and in 2022, he started teaching BJJ classes. His dedication to the sport culminated in earning his black belt in 2024, further adding to his expertise and impact as a martial arts instructor.

Mestre Batata’s teachings have impacted countless individuals, and his work continues through the more than thirty instructors, professors, and mestres he has mentored. Since relocating to Los Angeles in 2002, he remains actively involved with his Brazilian group and students, continuing to spread the values of capoeira and martial arts around the world.