Jose Higino

José Higino Alves Nunes is a 9th-degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu red belt. Standing out from many other prominent figures of his era, Higino does not come from the Gracie family tree; instead, he hails from the famous non-Gracie lineage of Master Oswaldo Fadda.

Early Start and the Vale Tudo Era
Television Influence: During the 1950s, Vale Tudo (No-Holds-Barred) fights were highly popular and regularly broadcast on Brazilian television. Inspired by these shows, Higino began practicing Jiu-Jitsu in 1959 at just 11 years old under his first coach, Fernando Peçanha.

Rapid Progression: He later moved to the JAPA academy, where he trained under Pedro Sampaio Duarte and Aderbal Baptista. Higino was incredibly dedicated to the sport, earning his instructor’s grade by the age of 17 in 1965.

The Fighting Scene: Higino was a well-respected competitor during the 1960s. He noted that during this era, academies almost exclusively prioritized Vale Tudo styling over pure grappling because the television exposure boosted gym profiles.

Coaching and Executive Legacy
Building His Academy: Immediately after earning his instructor’s diploma, Higino began teaching at the Academia Bangu de Jiu Jitsu and a gym in Realengo. After a brief period of coaching out of his own home, he rented a dedicated space in 1969 to found the Associação Higino de Jiu-Jitsu, solidifying his lifelong coaching career.

Producing Talent: As a coach, he has produced numerous established black belts, most notably elite grapplers like Fabrício do Couto.

Promotional Executive: Beyond his work on the mats, Higino expanded his influence into sports administration, serving as the president of the Liga Brasileira de Lutas Associadas, a prominent Brazilian fight promotion.