Admilson Brites

Major Accomplishments

• 2x 1st Place — IBJJF Pan American Champion (2002 Master / 2008 Senior 2)
• 1st Place — IBJJF European Open Champion (2004 Senior 1 Absolute)
• 11x 1st Place — CBJJ Brazilian National Champion (Across Master & Senior divisions between 1997 and 2010)
• 9x 1st Place — IBJJF International Masters & Seniors Champion (Dominating both weight and absolute categories)

Overview

Admilson “Juquinha” Brites is a highly accomplished Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt. Celebrated as one of the most dominant competitive masters athletes of the late 1990s and 2000s, Brites is equally revered for his monumental work developing and structuring the Jiu-Jitsu landscape in Brasília, Brazil’s capital city.

Biography & Martial Arts Journey

Early Energy and Training Roots

Born in Rio de Janeiro, Admilson grew up in the scenic mountain region of Teresópolis. As young boys, Admilson and his brother, Ailson Brites (famously known as “Jucão”), were constantly roughhousing around the house. To channel their intense energy into something productive and teach them how to co-exist peacefully, their uncle Amilton brought the pair to a local martial arts academy.

The gym they chose, Academia Serrana, was a perfect fit, run by their uncle and renowned grandmaster Geny Rebello. The brothers progressed through the kids’ program before moving into advanced classes under Master Cirilo Azevedo, who affectionately coined Admilson’s lifelong nickname, “Juquinha.”

Team Evolution and Gracie Humaitá

As Juquinha tore through the blue and purple belt competitive campaigns, his brother Ailson was scouted by Carlos Machado to join the Gracie Barra team, eventually moving to Jean Jacques Machado’s academy in Barra da Tijuca. Juquinha tagged along, largely because he was a massive fan of Renzo Gracie, who was one of the flagship competitors of the Barra stable at the time.

When Renzo eventually relocated to the United States, Juquinha decided to transition to the Gracie Humaitá Academy. The move was fueled by his immense admiration for Royler Gracie’s highly technical style, as well as the practical convenience of accessing the academy. Under this banner, Juquinha reached the pinnacle of his skills, earning his black belt and becoming one of Humaitá’s most active and decorated Master-division competitors worldwide.

Developing the Capital and Building a Legacy

In 1998, Juquinha embarked on a mission that would define his legacy outside of personal medals: he moved to Brasília to establish a formal Gracie Humaitá affiliate. Under his leadership, the academy grew exponentially, transitioning Brazil’s capital from a BJJ afterthought into a powerhouse region that regularly produced world-class champions.

After years of building the regional infrastructure, Juquinha eventually branched out to form his own fully independent organization, the Juquinha Team. Today, he remains a deeply respected professor and community leader, steering a thriving association of athletes across Brazil.

Origin of the Nickname

The moniker “Juquinha” means “Small Juca,” referencing a speedy cartoon mouse character. It was given to him by his early coach, Master Cirilo Azevedo, as a direct nod to his small stature and incredibly fast, lightning-quick submission mechanics on the mats.