Isaque Bahiense

Isaque Bahiense was born on December 10, 1995, in Brazil. Growing up in Bangu, Rio de Janeiro, he first encountered Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu through coach Fábio Andrade. Initially unable to afford training gear, Bahiense repeatedly declined Andrade's invitations to join his classes. Recognizing Bahiense's potential, Andrade gifted him his first kimono around the age of 10, marking the beginning of his promising journey in the sport. Under Andrade's mentorship, Bahiense quickly emerged as a standout talent, demonstrating exceptional dedication and natural aptitude.

Bahiense rapidly ascended through the colored belt ranks, dominating juvenile and colored belt competitions. He secured multiple World and Brazilian national titles, showcasing an aggressive, relentless guard-passing style that became his trademark. In 2014, Bahiense temporarily relocated to São Paulo to compete internationally, training at the renowned Alliance headquarters under the guidance of Fábio Gurgel and Michael Langhi. This experience significantly refined his technical skills and strategic approach, further elevating his competitive performance.

Following his successful stint in São Paulo, Bahiense permanently relocated to the city to continue training with Alliance, a decision fully supported by his mentor Andrade. Under the expert tutelage of Gurgel and Langhi, Bahiense continued to flourish, earning his brown belt and eventually receiving his black belt in December 2016. He quickly established himself as one of Alliance's premier black belt competitors, capturing prestigious titles such as the IBJJF World Championship in 2018 and the IBJJF European Open in 2018 and 2019.

Establishment and Vision

In October 2018, Bahiense founded the Dream Art Project, an ambitious professional jiu-jitsu program based in São Paulo, Brazil. The project identifies and nurtures talented colored belt athletes, providing comprehensive support including accommodation, English classes, higher education opportunities, and medical care.

International Expansion

Under Bahiense's leadership, Dream Art expanded internationally with the launch of Dream Art USA in 2022, establishing a training base in the United States as part of his vision to grow the team's global presence.

In late 2021, Bahiense guided the Dream Art Project toward independence, leading to its separation from Alliance. This strategic move preceded Dream Art's rapid ascent to the top of IBJJF team rankings, culminating in the team achieving the #1 academy status for the 2022–2023 season. In 2023, tensions between Bahiense and his former coach Michael Langhi escalated publicly after Alliance removed Bahiense's photo from its gym mural. This rivalry reached a high point when Bahiense faced Alliance competitor Matheus Spirandelli at BJJ Stars 11, adding intensity to their competitive narrative.

In 2022, Bahiense recruited renowned technician Paulo Miyao as Dream Art's head coach, further solidifying the team's coaching leadership. With Miyao's technical expertise, Bahiense emphasized mentoring and developing the next generation of jiu-jitsu champions. He openly expressed his ambition to secure the team title at the 2024 IBJJF World Championship, highlighting his commitment to excellence both on and off the mats.

Bahiense is widely recognized for his aggressive, pressure-based guard passing and effective back-takes. His relentless style was notably demonstrated in his victory at the 2022 IBJJF Grand Prix, where he defeated Manuel Ribamar in the medium-heavyweight final. In this match, Bahiense showcased dominant guard passing sequences and precise back control, securing a decisive points victory. His tactical approach and relentless pressure continue to influence and inspire athletes within the jiu-jitsu community.