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A Passion that started on the mats – At just six years old, João Amaral stepped onto the mats for the first time, unaware that this moment would shape his entire future.

His journey began with Judo, but at 13, he found his true passion: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Under the guidance of Crezio Souza, a key figure of the legendary Carlson Gracie Team, João refined his skills, developing the discipline, precision, and resilience that would define his career.
As Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu evolved, Brazilian Top Team (BTT) emerged in 2000, founded by some of the most accomplished names in the sport: Murilo Bustamante, Ricardo Libório, Mário Sperry, and Luis Roberto Duarte. João was part of this movement, training alongside elite athletes and absorbing the philosophy that would later inspire his own academy.

Driven by competition, João fought in some of the most prestigious tournaments in the world, including NAGA, Pan American Championships, Brazilian Nationals, Arnold Classic, and the US Open. He also stepped into the MMA cage, proving his skills in real combat. But beyond the victories, João discovered his greatest passion: teaching.
He realized that Jiu-Jitsu was more than just a sport—it was a tool for transformation. It built confidence, discipline, and resilience. With that vision, João founded BTT Boca Raton, a place where anyone—regardless of age or experience—could train, grow, and become part of something greater.

The spirit of BTT Boca Raton – More than just a gym, BTT Boca Raton is a family.

Here, students train under world-class instruction, following the legacy of BTT while embracing a culture of hard work, respect, and personal growth. Whether you’re stepping onto the mats for the first time or preparing for competition, you’ll find a place to challenge yourself, push your limits, and be part of a legacy that continues to inspire fighters worldwide.

Join us and experience the true essence of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu!
BTT Boca Raton instructor demonstrating a Jiu-Jitsu throw during class

Instructors

Those who teach, support, and challenge

JoãoAmaral

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (6th-Degree Black Belt), Gi, No-Gi, MMA and Owner

A 6th-degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with over 40 years of experience, João has competed in prestigious tournaments like NAGA and Pan American Championships. His teaching focuses on discipline, resilience, and building both technical skills and confidence.

Evan
Lawrence

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Gi and No-GI

Specializing in both Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and self-defense, Evan’s approach blends technical BJJ with real-world applications, focusing on practical techniques for everyday situations.

Federico
Batlle

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Gi and No-Gi

A 2nd-degree black belt and active competitor, Federico focuses on competition-level Jiu-Jitsu, helping students refine techniques and mental strategies for success on the mats.

Matt
Janzer

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Gi and No-Gi

With expertise in Muay Thai and kickboxing, Matt focuses on striking, footwork, and conditioning. His training enhances both offensive and defensive skills for a complete striking game.

Caio
Chiarioni

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Gi and No-Gi

Specializing in competition Jiu-Jitsu, Caio teaches strategic techniques and emphasizes mental preparation, helping students develop effective game plans for both training and tournaments.

Joshua
Vega

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Gi and No-Gi

Joshua focuses on ground control and submissions, teaching students how to anticipate opponents’ movements, execute transitions, and dominate mats with efficient techniques.

Pablo
Barros

Muay Thai

Pablo focuses on Muay Thai fundamentals, teaching students how to deliver precise strikes, master clinch tactics, and build endurance through pad drills and sparring, daily.

BTT has trained legends like Arona, Bustamante, Nogueira Brothers, Belfort, and more.

Meet our team

What is
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a martial art centered on grappling and ground fighting, focusing on techniques that enable you to control and submit your opponent with precision and leverage. Originating from Judo (Newaza) and Japanese Jujutsu, BJJ was developed and refined by the Gracie family in Brazil. Carlos Gracie and his brothers adapted and enhanced these techniques to create an effective system that allows smaller, less powerful individuals to defend themselves against larger opponents.

Over time, BJJ has become a global reference, especially in the MMA scene, where techniques like the “rear naked choke” and “armbar” have gained widespread recognition.

Start Training Today, Transform Your Life!

Benefits of BJJ

Self-Defense: Learn how to effectively protect yourself in real-life situations, as 95% of street fights end up on the ground.

Fitness and Flexibility: Improve your physical fitness, flexibility, and weight control while mastering new techniques.

Mental Resilience: Develop focus, patience, and resilience to tackle life’s challenges with greater confidence.

Accessible for All: Suitable for men, women, and children as young as four.

Personal Growth: Experience a continuous path of improvement, learning something new with every training session.

Code of conduct

Respect, discipline, and personal growth

At Brazilian Top Team, we believe martial arts are about more than just techniques—they’re about discipline, respect, and personal growth. Our code of conduct ensures a safe and respectful environment for everyone.

Dojo Rules

Cleanliness: Wear clean t-shirts and keep yourself fresh.

Uniform: All should have Brazilian Top Team uniform.

Punctuality: Be on the mat before class starts.

Respect: Bow when entering or leaving the mat and show respect to black belts and instructors.

Permission: Don’t leave the mat without the instructor’s OK.

Electronics: No phones or electronic devices on the mat unless allowed.

Osu

At Brazilian Top Team, we incorporate the spirit of “Osu” into our code of conduct. This term reflects our core values and is crucial to our training environment. Incorporating “Osu” into your practice ensures that you contribute positively to the dojo and grow as both a martial artist and an individual.

Osu Represents:

Perseverance: Commitment to pushing through physical and mental challenges.

Respect: Courteous interactions with all members of our community.

Determination: Resilience and a strong mindset in facing obstacles.

Testimonials

Our members share their transformative experiences and unforgettable moments. Join us and leave your own review!