Rodrigo Freitas

Rodrigo Freitas was born on November 29, 1983, in Belo Horizonte, the capital city of Minas Gerais, Brazil. As a teenager, Freitas began martial arts training to channel his hyperactivity. Initially exploring karate and judo, he soon discovered Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, quickly recognizing it as his true passion and dedicating himself fully to mastering the art.

Throughout his formative years, Rodrigo Freitas trained exclusively under Aldo Januário, widely known as "Caveirinha." Januário guided Freitas meticulously through each belt rank, ultimately awarding him his black belt in 2007. During this period, Freitas honed his skills at Caveirinha's academy, affiliated with the prestigious Gracie Barra organization.

In March 2009, Freitas relocated to the United States to play a pivotal role in expanding the Gracie Barra brand across North America. His technical expertise and leadership significantly contributed to establishing and strengthening the organization's presence in the Northern Hemisphere.

After several years dedicated to Gracie Barra's growth, Rodrigo Freitas established his own academy in July 2015. Initially named Rodrigo Freitas Jiu-Jitsu, the academy is now known as Inspirit Jiu-Jitsu and is located in Hawthorne, California. Under Freitas' leadership, Inspirit Jiu-Jitsu quickly developed a competitive team known for technical proficiency and fostered a supportive, growth-oriented training environment.

Rodrigo Freitas is notably recognized as the first coach and mentor of Ian Sanders. Under Freitas' strategic guidance and technical instruction, Sanders achieved significant competitive success, notably becoming a two-time IBJJF No-Gi Pan champion.

2014 IBJJF Pan Championship No-Gi

At the 2014 IBJJF Pan Championship No-Gi, Freitas showcased tactical precision and strategic awareness, capturing the lightweight title by defeating renowned competitor Garry Tonon by advantage. His disciplined guard retention and positional control were key factors in securing this significant victory.

2019 IBJJF World Championship

In 2019, Freitas earned a bronze medal in the adult lightweight division at the 2019 IBJJF World Championship. His quarterfinal match was particularly notable, as he demonstrated exceptional submission skills by finishing Ygor Rodrigues.

2024 IBJJF World Championship No-Gi

After years of consistently performing at elite levels, Freitas achieved a career milestone by capturing his first World title at the 2024 IBJJF World Championship No-Gi. Competing in the Master 2 lightweight division, his tactical approach, precise timing, and relentless pressure culminated in this prestigious championship victory.