Ricardo Miller

Early Life and Introduction to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Ricardo Miller was born on June 30, 1969, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Raised in the renowned Leblon neighborhood, Miller grew up in a middle-class family with American heritage, tracing back to his great-grandfather from the USA. Unlike many Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioners of his era, Miller benefited from access to quality education. At age 19, he discovered Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, beginning his training under the esteemed Romero "Jacaré" Cavalcanti at the Jacaré Academy in Ipanema. During these formative years, Miller honed his skills alongside notable athletes such as Fábio Gurgel and Roberto "Traven", developing a solid technical foundation and tactical understanding of the art.

Founding and Expansion of Paragon Jiu-Jitsu Academy

In 1996, after visiting Santa Barbara, California, for the BJJ Pan American Championship, Miller decided to relocate permanently to the United States. He established Paragon Academy in Santa Barbara, laying the groundwork for what would evolve into a prominent international network. Under Miller's strategic leadership, Paragon expanded significantly, opening affiliate academies across California, Texas, Arizona, and internationally, including early ventures into Sweden. Miller's tactical approach to instruction and curriculum development has produced numerous champions at prestigious tournaments such as the IBJJF Pan American and World Championships. His dedication to technical excellence is evident in the more than 20 Paragon black belts he has promoted in Arizona alone.

Elite Students and MMA Coaching Influence

Ricardo Miller, affectionately known as "Franjinha," is widely respected as a world-class instructor and strategist, mentoring several elite grapplers throughout their careers. Notably, he guided grappling standouts Jeff Glover and Bill "The Grill" Cooper from their early competitive stages, refining their innovative and dynamic styles. Miller also successfully transitioned his coaching expertise into mixed martial arts, notably mentoring UFC strawweight Tabatha "Baby Shark" Ricci. Miller promoted Ricci to black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, providing her with a strong grappling foundation that has significantly contributed to her tactical success in MMA competition.

Paul Walker Tribute and Community Impact

In December 2013, Miller posthumously awarded actor Paul Walker a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt as a final tribute. Walker, who trained diligently under Miller for nearly a decade and had achieved the rank of brown belt, demonstrated deep commitment and passion for the art. Miller's gesture honored Walker's dedication and underscored the strong bonds and sense of community fostered within Paragon Academy.

Inclusive Gym Culture and Open-Door Philosophy

Miller is renowned for cultivating an inclusive, ego-free training environment at Paragon Academy. His open-door policy welcomes practitioners from any affiliation, a notable departure from the traditional exclusivity often found in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academies. This welcoming philosophy, combined with Miller's approachable demeanor and emphasis on technical collaboration, has earned Paragon a global reputation as a "home away from home" for traveling grapplers seeking high-level training and camaraderie.

Legacy and Ongoing Contributions to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Awarded his black belt in February 1997 by Romero "Jacaré" Cavalcanti, Miller is approaching coral-belt status, marking over 25 years of dedicated practice and teaching. He continues to actively share his extensive technical knowledge through seminars worldwide, frequently returning to Brazil and other international locations. Miller's enduring legacy is evident in the expansive Paragon network and the numerous accomplished instructors he has trained, ensuring his lasting influence on the global Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu community.