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Established as the first BJJ academy in Texas, Carlos Machado Jiu-Jitsu Headquarters has evolved into a respected institution, positively impacting countless lives through martial arts.
With a membership base that has peaked at 700 active practitioners, the academy has produced numerous champions across competitions, including IBJJF, UFC, ADCC, and Pan American Championships. To date, the academy continues to cultivate top-tier athletes and instructors who spread the transformative power of BJJ nationwide.
Carlos Machado, a Black Belt Hall of Famer known as the "Godfather of Jiu-Jitsu" in the Southwest, is a pivotal figure in the school’s history. As the eldest of the Machado brothers and cousin to the Gracie family, he has significantly contributed to the growth of BJJ in the U.S.
Even with a schedule that gets filled with traveling for seminars and projects, Machado continues to teach at headquarters, providing students the invaluable opportunity to train directly alongside him.
The legacy of Carlos Machado is carried on by his son, Ray Machado, the current manager and Head Kids and Teens instructor. Ray’s commitment honors his father’s legacy and ensures that the values of BJJ thrive in the next generation, supported by a team of professional coaches, each with their own impressive accomplishments.
At Carlos Machado Jiu-Jitsu, the spirit of camaraderie and growth flourishes. More than just a training space, it’s a family of dedicated BJJ enthusiasts. As the academy celebrates nearly three decades of excellence, it invites individuals—whether seasoned practitioners or newcomers—to join a community where passion and dedication create a thriving family of open-minded martial artists.