Gutemberg Pereira

Gutemberg Pereira was born on May 16, 1993, in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil. Raised in Jardim Cajazeiras, a neighborhood marked by poverty and violence, Pereira's parents encouraged him to engage in sports as a positive outlet and safeguard against street violence and gang influences. Throughout his childhood, he actively participated in football (soccer), swimming, karate, muay Thai, and basketball. As a teenager, following a challenging family situation, Pereira was advised to try Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to build self-confidence and discipline. He began training at Fight Club academy under coaches Marcio Bittencourt, Marcílio, and Marcelo Villas-Boas, who ignited his passion for BJJ and competitive grappling.

Joining GF Team

As a blue belt, Gutemberg traveled to Rio de Janeiro to compete at the CBJJ Rio International Open. Inspired by the legendary Rodolfo Vieira, Pereira approached Master Júlio César Pereira to request entry into the competitors' program at GF Team. Recognizing Pereira's potential and dedication, Júlio César welcomed him into the team.

International Experience and Black Belt Promotion

After two successful years competing and training extensively in the United States at GF Team affiliates in Miami and Toledo, Ohio, Gutemberg earned his black belt from Júlio César Pereira. He quickly emerged as one of GF Team's premier international competitors, representing the team at major tournaments worldwide.

In late 2023, after more than a decade with GF Team, Gutemberg Pereira transitioned to Art Of Jiu-Jitsu (AOJ) in Costa Mesa, California. Seeking fresh technical perspectives and new competitive challenges, he began training under the guidance of Guilherme Mendes. At AOJ, Pereira expanded his grappling style, integrating explosive movements, modern guard techniques, and berimbolo-style attacks into his established pressure-based game, significantly evolving his technical repertoire.

Gutemberg Pereira is widely recognized for his dynamic, crowd-pleasing grappling style. Initially known for his heavy pressure passing and dominant top control, Pereira has since diversified his approach. Under AOJ's influence, he effectively blends explosive transitions, modern guard play, and berimbolo-style attacks with his foundational pressure-based techniques. This versatility makes him an unpredictable and formidable competitor, capable of adapting strategically to various opponents and match scenarios.

Pereira has delivered numerous standout performances at elite competitions. At the 2024 IBJJF European Championship, he secured double gold, dominating both the super-heavyweight and absolute divisions. He further solidified his elite status by capturing consecutive absolute titles at the IBJJF Pan Championships in 2024 and 2025. Additionally, Pereira won the 2022 ADCC South American Trials at +99kg with an impressive 100% submission rate, although an injury prevented him from competing at the subsequent ADCC World Championship.

Throughout his career, Gutemberg Pereira has faced significant obstacles, including injuries and external disruptions. Notably, he suffered a dislocated arm during a superfight, temporarily impacting his competition schedule. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic and management changes at GF Team Toledo disrupted his training routine. Demonstrating resilience and determination, Pereira briefly returned to Brazil at the end of 2019 before resuming international competition and training, successfully overcoming these setbacks.

Beyond his competitive accomplishments, Gutemberg Pereira actively contributes to coaching and the development of grappling programs. He has held coaching roles at GF Team headquarters and affiliated academies, positively influencing numerous students and training partners. Pereira continues to share his evolving technical insights and strategic approach, significantly impacting the broader BJJ community through dedicated instruction and mentorship.