Alexandre Ribeiro

Early Life and Introduction to Jiu-Jitsu

Alexandre Ribeiro, widely recognized as "Xande," began his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey at age 10 under the mentorship of the Monteiro Brothers. At 18, he relocated to Rio de Janeiro to pursue a law degree, simultaneously advancing his training at the prestigious Gracie Academy. In March 2001, Ribeiro earned his black belt from his older brother, Saulo Ribeiro, marking the start of a remarkable competitive legacy.

Competition Style and Technical Philosophy

Guard Passing Mastery

Xande Ribeiro is renowned for his exceptional guard passing abilities, notably having his guard passed only four times throughout his competitive career. His tactical approach emphasizes mastering fundamental techniques and cultivating a versatile, well-rounded game free of exploitable weaknesses.

Integration of Judo and Wrestling

Ribeiro strategically incorporates judo and wrestling into his training regimen, enhancing his stand-up grappling and positional dominance. He is particularly celebrated for his relentless pressure passing and precise execution of cross-collar chokes, techniques that have become hallmarks of his competitive style.

ADCC Championship Journey and Hall of Fame Induction

Ribeiro's no-gi grappling career is distinguished by two ADCC World Championship titles, secured in 2007 and 2009. In recognition of his significant contributions to submission grappling, he was inducted into the ADCC Hall of Fame in 2022. Reflecting on this honor, Ribeiro emphasized the enduring importance of fundamental techniques, even amid the rise of more dynamic and flashy grappling styles.

Transition to Coaching and Founding Six Blades Jiu-Jitsu

Establishing Six Blades

Ribeiro co-founded Six Blades Jiu-Jitsu, representing an evolution and rebranding of the Ribeiro family legacy. While his brother Saulo continues to lead the Ribeiro Jiu-Jitsu Association, Xande spearheaded Six Blades to highlight core values such as family, respect, loyalty, discipline, attitude, and honor.

Coaching and Mentorship

Based in Austin, Texas, Ribeiro opened Six Blades Austin, where he serves as head instructor. He actively mentors elite competitors, including Victor Hugo and Rafael Lovato Jr., and regularly travels internationally to inaugurate affiliate academies, such as Six Blades San Diego in 2023.

Selective Return to Competition

Though officially retired from regular world championship competition, Ribeiro selectively competes in masters divisions and superfight events. In 2024, he announced plans to compete at the 2024 IBJJF European Championship, marking his return to major IBJJF competition as a master-aged athlete. Ribeiro has also expressed interest in competing in FloGrappling's WNO (Who's Number One) series. Maintaining a rigorous daily training routine, Ribeiro remains in peak physical condition, driven by his passion for testing himself against elite competitors.

Community Leadership and Outreach

Local Engagement

From his base in Austin, Texas, Ribeiro actively contributes to the local Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu community. He organizes charity roll-a-thons and self-defense workshops, particularly aimed at empowering women and promoting safety.

Promoting Unity and Collaboration

Ribeiro fosters unity within the martial arts community by hosting open mats welcoming practitioners from various teams. Additionally, he provides consultation and training to military and law enforcement agencies, demonstrating his commitment to expanding Jiu-Jitsu's influence beyond competitive sports.