Third Degree De La Riva Black Belt
Born in Sao Paulo Brazil Professor Luiz Vicente Junior began his career in martial arts not with Jiu-Jitsu, but in Judo. When Vicente was only fourteen years old he began his training with Judo and committed six years to that particular discipline, earning himself the rank of Brown Belt. It was not until later that Vicente was introduced to the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu which is a martial art and combat sport that focuses on grappling and especially ground fighting with the goal of gaining a dominant position and using joint-locks and chokeholds to force an opponent to submit. Vicente has fully dedicated himself to this sport, training as often two or three times a day. His years of hard work and dedication to the sport have earned him the rank of Second Degree De La Riva Black Belt.
Vicente started training Jiu-Jitsu under the teachers Marcelo (Kimura) and Diojone (Grace Barra). In 1999 he began training under Master Ricardo de la Riva, one of the world’s most renowned icons in Brazilian Jiu-jitsu even today. “I have no words to define the master Ricardo de la Riva, a person who created a style of care with his own name and has until this day” says Vicente.
Vicente began competing in his state in Brazil at an early age. Even before earning his black belt he has been among the best fighters in his class, winning state titles and remaining undefeated to this day in his own state, Vicente also claims the title of two time regional champion in Rio de Janeio Brazil. In 2005 Vicente claimed third place in the World Cup, 2006 he took the title of Bi-Champion of Rio de Janeiro. Vicente went on to claim first place at the Pan American Championship in 2007. Finally in 2008 Vicente went on to claim the title of World Champion competing only three months after a motorcycle accident in Brazil. He also claimed first place in 2009 at the New York Open. Vicente not only competes but is also a certified international IBJJ referee and enjoys refereeing in local and international tournaments today.
Vicente is still competing today and for all the titles he holds he is also a magnificent instructor in the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Vicente fathered many programs in relation to Jiu-Jitsu, including a refresher course in both technical and pedagogical jiu-jitus and a First Aid course at the School of Physical Education of the Brazilian Army in 1998. Vicente also started a social project in the capital city Maceio-AL, Brazil which teaches Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to underprivileged kids who cannot afford to pay at a gym. “I am sure I am creating a better future for them.” Notes Vicente. This program still thrives today. Today Professor Vicente Junior claims XS Combat in Claymont, DE as his stable for teaching both children and adults. Vicente has been teaching Jiu-Jitsu since only sixteen years old, and has several academies open around the northeast part of Brazil under his name today.
