The GFTeam StoryFounded in 1996 at Gama Filho University in Rio de Janeiro, GFTeam began with the encouragement and support of professors Pedro Gama Filho and Paulo Jardim. Under the leadership of instructors Júlio César, Marcus Bello, and Alexandre Baraúna, the team took its first steps toward growth and expansion in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. ​ As the team rapidly grew, training moved to larger facilities, expanding beyond Rio de Janeiro to other regions of Brazil and eventually internationally. Strong institutional support during the early years—through scholarships and infrastructure—played a key role in the team’s development.   With the formation of certified black belts and the expansion of training centers, the team continued to grow nationally and abroad. As the organization evolved and professionalized—also preparing athletes for MMA—it became necessary to adopt a new identity. Thus, GFTeam (Grappling Fight Team) was born.   In less than two years, GFTeam had firmly established itself as a global reference. Today, the team has over 250 academies worldwide, with its headquarters located in Méier, Rio de Janeiro, offering a complete structure to support athletes of all levels.