Meet The Team
LUCIO ‘LAGARTO’
Head Professor . 5th degree black belt
I was born in Rio de Janeiro in 1980. I received my black belt under Master Carlos Gracie Jr in 2004 and am one of only two black belts in all of Europe who comes directly from Master Carlos Gracie Jr himself.
I became a renowned name is the sport of Brazillian Jiu-Jitsu as a brown belt in 2003 after a tough fight with Jacaré Souza.
After this is went on to become 5 time european champion and in 2011 world champion after beating one of the best of all time marcus “Buchecha”.
Now as a 5th degree black belt, my focus is to have a school where students can become the best version of themselves & where jiu-jitsu can touch my family and students lives profoundly.
Fun fact: I am part Dolphin and love to surf!
PHOEBE RODRIGUES
Co-Founder | Brown Belt
I was born and raised in London and grew up with a passion for sport and Performing.
I come from a family of martial artists & stunt men and was a professional dancer and later a professional stunt woman for nearly 12 years.
I started my BJJ journey 10 years ago. Although I had trained in Muay Thai and kick boxing for many years, seeing how BJJ changed my life and others, it became my biggest passion.
Our academy gave me everything. My husband, son & our academy as the central part of my life.
Fun fact: I am one of Wonder Woman’s Amazonian women!
PROFESSOR ANTONIO
2nd degree black belt
I was born in Portugal and moved to London when I was 4. I was raised in a rough neighbourhood of Brixton and started martial arts at the age of 14 to keep away from trouble. I practiced judo and kickboxing until I was 18, then moved to MMA and fell in love with Jiu Jitsu.
I fought MMA out of a London gym and have been teaching for over 10 years. I received my black belt in 2017 under Nilton Garcia.
I don’t see teaching as work with BJJ, I see it as a way of life I chose to live. I cherish teaching young children and seeing their development and accomplishments.
Fun fact: I’m also a qualified electrical engineer!
PROFESSOR MAYCON
3rd degree black belt
I was born in Paraná, Brazil, and raised in Bahia, Brazil. I have been a black belt for over 9 years. I received my black belt in 2015.
I was a skateboarder, and back in the day, I made friends through skateboarding. One of my friends asked me to teach him how to skate in exchange for him teaching me Jiu-Jitsu. That’s how I ended up in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu!
Through Jiu-Jitsu, we can connect with so many different types of people—people we might never have met in other professions. It creates a unique and meaningful experience on so many levels.
Fun fact: I’m an ethical hacker, currently in my second year of studying cybersecurity.
PROFESSOR WASHINGTON
2nd degree black belt
I was born and raised in Brasília & I have been a black belt for six years.
My journey into BJJ began when a friend of mine, who was a judo practitioner, decided to switch to Jiu-Jitsu. He invited me to join him for his first class, and from the moment I stepped on the mats, I never looked back.
I choose BJJ as my work as I believe Jiu-Jits has the power to change lives, just as it changed mine. I have witnessed countless people transform for the better through Jiu-Jitsu. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that I can help others find a better path through this art and make it a meaningful part of their lives.
Fun fact: I am a purple belt in judo and have a degree in physical education, which I earned over five years ago.
TESSA
Receptionist
I was born in London and have always struggled with my fitness. I recently lost 9kg and so wanted to work in a healthy environment, which is what initially brought me to Valour Jiu-Jitsu.
Although not a natural martial artist myself, I adore the atmosphere of the academy and love seeing the progress of all the students at all levels. It really inspires me on my own fitness and white belt journey.
Fun Fact: I have a degree in illustration, love karaoke and used to play the steel pans at school!
ROME
Sales Manager – Black belt
I was born and raised in New Orleans. My BJJ journey kicked off back in 2006, under the guidance of UFC veteran Professor Frank Caracci. That first step on the mat turned into a global adventure, by taking me through the UK, Europe, Asia and North América. The highlight being promoted by Professor Dan Reid to black belt.
I was contacted by UFC fighter Preston Parsons to manage and coach No Gi at Elevate MMA. Thanks to the Rodrigues Family, I’ve landed my dream job at Valour! I’m thrilled to continue my journey and support you in yours on the mat!
Fun fact: I’m passionate about giving back! I’ve volunteered in Ghana with Community outreach and served as a volunteer beach lifeguard with the VLSC in Jacksonville Beach, Florida.