World-Class Instruction

Learn From
Leaders Of The Art

There are no shortcuts in learning Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, so you can't waste any minute with the wrong techniques or unqualified instructors. Gracie Barra Pearland offers highly trained and certified instructors teaching from a unique system of curriculums tailored for different ages and BJJ experience levels.

Head Instructor / 6th Degree Black Belt

Marcelo Azevedo.

Marcelo Azevedo, also known by his nickname “Uirapuru”, filled in Draculino's boots as head coach of Gracie Barra Belo Horizonte headquarters before moving to the United States. He is an accomplished grappler with vast experience in MMA and has dedicated over 40 years of his life to martial arts.

Besides being a decorated competitor, Professor Marcelo has helped develop the games of multiple world champions and top-tier UFC fighters. “Jiu-Jitsu is my passion and lifestyle and I will always dedicate my body and soul to my students.”

7-Time Jiu-Jitsu World Champion
7-Time Jiu-Jitsu Pan American Champion
1-Time World No-Gi Champion

Master Instructor

Vinicius Draculino.

Master Vinicius Draculino Magalhaes is the head instructor of Gracie Barra Texas. Prof. Draculino's personality, enthusiasm, integrity, charisma, and leadership make the essence of GB Texas and touch all those around him.

A great competition background qualifies him as one of the best featherweight competitors in BJJ history. Besides his titles as a fighter, Master Vinicius is considered one of the best instructors in the BJJ world, having promoted more than 500 Black Belts.

4-time Pan American Champion & 1-time No-Gi Pan American Champion
2-time Silver medalist at the world BJJ championships
Over 30 years of teaching and mentoring experience

2nd Degree Black Belt / Women's Program

Mariana Azevedo.

Professor Mariana is a second-degree black belt who started Jiu-Jitsu when she moved from Brazil to Houston. She contributed immensely to the Jiu-Jitsu scene by being one of the pioneers in implementing an exclusive program for women within a Gracie Barra school.

Today, her biggest goal is to continue sharing her experience through the sport so that more and more women can learn about this powerful tool that can change lives just as hers has changed.

4-Time Jiu-Jitsu World Champion
3-Time Jiu-Jitsu Pan American Champion
Specialist in Women's Self-Defense

2nd Degree Black Belt

Isai Cabrera.

Isai Cabrera is a Second-degree black belt under Draculino for over 15 years and has been teaching for more than a decade. He brings a wealth of practical and competitive knowledge to the mats, providing immense value to students of all levels.

In competition, he achieved multiple wins at the Houston Open across various belts, an undefeated amateur MMA record, and currently holds a professional MMA record. As an instructor, he teaches Gi, No-Gi, and MMA for all levels and age groups.