Where discipline meets family, and every student becomes the best version of themselves.
PROF. PEDRO DUTRA
Gracie Barra Trussville
Head Coach Pedro Dutra
Interview with Head Prof. Pedro Dutra
Meet Prof. Pedro Dutra that lives a lifelong dream by opening his own academy in Trussville, Alabama, alongside his
wife Prof. Jacqueline Dutra, who is also a black belt.
Professor Pedro, can you please introduce yourself briefly to our readers and tell us a little about your background in Jiu-Jitsu?
My name is Pedro Dutra, I am 38 years old, and I have been training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu since I was 4 years old. I come from a traditional martial arts family, where discipline and commitment were always a priority. Today, I am a 4th-degree Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, a brown belt in Judo, and the Head Professor at Gracie Barra Trussville, where I dedicate my life to teaching authentic Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and developing people through the art.
You started training Jiu-Jitsu at a very young age. What was it like growing up in a traditional martial arts family, and how did that shape who you are today?
Growing up in a martial arts family meant discipline was non-negotiable. My mother had a very clear rule at home: “at least until the purple belt, everyone will train.” That mindset shaped our entire household. Today, all of the sons are black belts and academy owners. This upbringing taught me commitment, consistency, and respect, values that continue to guide my life and my work as a professor.
Your mother played an important role in your early discipline and training. How did those early lessons influence your mindset as an athlete and instructor?
My mother was the foundation of my discipline. She taught us that showing up every day mattered more than talent. That lesson stayed with me throughout my entire career. As an instructor, I apply the same principle: discipline builds character, and character sustains success. Those early lessons are present in everything I teach on the mats today.
You are a 4th-degree Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and also a brown belt in Judo. How do these experiences complement each other in your teaching style?
Judo and Jiu-Jitsu complement each other perfectly. Judo gave me a deep understanding of balance, grips, takedowns, and body mechanics, while Jiu-Jitsu refined my ground control, strategy, and efficiency. Together, they allow me to teach a complete and well-rounded system, always focused on technique, control, and intelligent movement.
You also have an academic background in Physical Education and Exercise Physiology. How does this scientific knowledge influence the way you teach Jiu-Jitsu today?
In addition to my martial arts background, I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education and a postgraduate specialization in Exercise Physiology. This academic foundation gives me a technical and scientific approach to teaching Jiu-Jitsu. I understand how the body moves, adapts, and recovers, which allows me to structure training safely, efficiently, and sustainably for students of all ages and levels.
Throughout your career, you’ve coached athletes, taught seminars around the world, and developed multiple black belts. What does building a legacy mean to you as a professor?
Building a legacy means seeing my students carry Jiu-Jitsu forward with integrity. Over the years, I have taught seminars around the world, developed multiple black belts, and coached athletes through private training, including competitors who reached major events such as the UFC. Knowing that my students represent the values of Jiu-Jitsu and pass that knowledge on is the greatest reward of my career.
You owned and led several Gracie Barra schools in Brazil. What motivated your move to Alabama and the decision to open Gracie Barra Trussville?
In Brazil, I owned and led three Gracie Barra schools, always sharing my passion, discipline, and deep understanding of Jiu-Jitsu. After more than three decades dedicated to the art and a long competitive career with numerous medals, I decided to expand my mission. Moving to Alabama allowed me to continue sharing authentic Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and the core values of Gracie Barra, respect, technique, community, loyalty, and Jiu-Jitsu for everyone.
What is your main mission as the Head Professor at Gracie Barra Trussville, especially for families, kids, and adult beginners?
Opening Gracie Barra Trussville is the fulfillment of a lifelong dream. Alongside my wife, Professor Jacqueline Dutra, who is also a black belt, we have built an academy focused on discipline, inclusion, friendship, and family spirit. Our mission is to create an environment where students feel supported, challenged, and inspired to become better versions of themselves.
In your opinion, what makes Gracie Barra and its methodology so effective for students of all ages and experience levels?
Gracie Barra’s strength comes from its structure, values, and global community. I witnessed the organization grow and become the largest, strongest, and most influential Jiu-Jitsu organization in the world. Its methodology allows students of all ages and experience levels to train safely, progress consistently, and feel part of something bigger than just a gym.
Outside the mats, who is Pedro Dutra? What do you enjoy doing in your free time, and how do you balance Jiu-Jitsu with family and personal life?
Outside the mats, I am a family-oriented person who values time with my wife, family, and close friends. Jiu-Jitsu has always been part of my life, but balance is essential. Family, discipline, and purpose are what keep me grounded and motivated to continue this journey every day.
Main BJJ Competition Awards
Black Belt - Master
2025
- Austin Summer International Open IBJJF - 2nd Place - Super Heavy
2022
- Atlanta Winter International Open IBJJF - 1st Place - Super Heavy
- Nashville International Open IBJJF - 1st Place - Super Heavy
2021
- Memphis International Open IBJJF - 1st Place - Super Heavy
- American National IBJJF Championship - 3rd Place - Super Heavy
2019
- Atlanta Spring International Open IBJJF - 1st Place - Super Heavy
- Austin Winter International Open IBJJF - 2nd Place - Super Heavy
- Birmingham International Open IBJJF - 1st Place - Ultra Heavy
- Birmingham International Open IBJJF - 2nd Place - Open Class
2018
- Atlanta Summer International Open IBJJF - 1st Place - Super Heavy
2017
- Brasília International Open IBJJF - 2nd Place - Super Heavy
Gracie Barra Trussville is a place for the whole family. We invite you to come train, grow, and be part of a community that supports each other every day.
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Gracie Barra: A Local Family Around the World
At Gracie Barra, you’re not just joining a Jiu-Jitsu gym, you’re becoming part of a global community with over 1,000 schools worldwide.
Our martial arts classes combine high-level Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training with a strong focus on physical fitness, mental resilience, and personal growth. You’ll break a sweat, learn real self-defense, and connect with supportive teammates who encourage you to do your best.
Whether you’re training Jiu-Jitsu to get in shape, manage stress, or pursue athletic goals, you’ll be part of something bigger, a worldwide community. So keep your kimono close, because wherever life takes you, there’s always a Gracie Barra school nearby.