Faustino Neto

Faustino Martins Neto, universally revered as Mestre Pina (Master Pina), is a highly distinguished Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt master and coach. He is the founder and head instructor of Clube Pina de Jiu Jitsu (CPJJ), one of the most legendary and prolific grappling academies in the world, credited with putting Manaus, Amazonas, on the global Jiu-Jitsu map.  

Early Life & Transition to Jiu-Jitsu
Born on February 19, 1966, in Manaus, the capital of the Amazonas state in Northern Brazil, Neto began his journey in martial arts at the age of 18 through Judo.  

His path fundamentally changed during a Judo tournament when he faced a competitor who utilized Jiu-Jitsu ground techniques. Neto was decisively submitted on the ground, an experience that opened his eyes to the efficiency of the “gentle art” and prompted him to change disciplines.  

Around 1987, Neto officially began his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training under Carlson Gracie Junior. Determined to absorb the highest level of the art, he began splitting his time between Manaus and Rio de Janeiro, spending months at a time in Rio training heavily under the tutelage of Master Osvaldo Alves and Sergio Penha. It was under Alves that Neto progressed through all of his colored belts, ultimately earning his black belt in 1997.  

The Rise of Clube Pina
Even before receiving his black belt, Neto discovered a profound gift for teaching. In 1991, as a purple belt, he began coaching classes in his hometown of Manaus.  

The immediate success and growth of his student base led him to officially establish his own academy, Clube Pina de Jiu Jitsu, in the year 2000. Despite having very little competitive experience of his own, Master Pina’s exceptional understanding of grappling mechanics and sports psychology turned his gym into an absolute powerhouse.  

World-Class Coach & Legacy
From his base in Manaus, Master Pina built an international reputation as a “maker of champions.” CPJJ became famous for developing raw, local talent into world-class, elite black belts who have conquered the highest echelons of the IBJJF World Championships and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA).  

Some of the most prominent world champions and elite competitors produced under his guidance include:

Bibiano Fernandes (Multi-time IBJJF World Champion & ONE Championship Champion)  

Carlos Diego Ferreira (Elite UFC Veteran)  

Carlos “Esquisito” Holanda (IBJJF Pan American Champion)  

Jaqueline Amorim (IBJJF World Champion & UFC Strawweight)  

Alex Martins * Rodrigo Pinheiro  

Competitive Profile
Current Status: 5th Degree Black Belt / Head Coach  

Team Association: Clube Pina de Jiu Jitsu