Professor Marcelo Alonso – Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Black Belt Under Master Carlson Gracie
Marcelo Alonso is a legendary Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Black Belt and one of the most respected instructors in the Pacific Northwest. Born and raised in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Marcelo began his martial arts journey in Copacabana, training under the legendary Master Carlson Gracie—a direct member of the iconic Gracie family lineage.
Early Training Under Carlson Gracie
Marcelo’s introduction to Jiu Jitsu began at age 12, thanks to a close childhood friendship with Junior Gracie, the son of Master Carlson. Although his family could not afford full tuition, Master Carlson personally allowed Marcelo to train for a small fee—recognizing his potential early on.
Following the traditional Gracie methodology, Marcelo was not allowed to compete during his first three years of training. Master Carlson emphasized building a strong foundation in fundamentals and technique before entering competition. Marcelo’s first tournament came at age 15 in the early 1980s, and he continued competing into his mid-20s.
Training with Gracie Barra and the Machado Family
In 1985, due to a change in his academic schedule, Marcelo temporarily left Carlson Gracie Academy and trained at Gracie Barra, under Rigan Machado—sharing the mats with many of the top fighters from that generation. After earning a law degree, he returned to the Carlson Gracie team and began teaching at the Carlson Gracie Academy (CGA) in 1989.
There’s a famous story Marcelo has shared: after holding a brown belt for several years and achieving consistent competition success, he asked Master Carlson when he might receive his black belt. Carlson’s response: “You talk too much. Wait two more years.” Marcelo was officially awarded his black belt in 1995.
Spreading Jiu Jitsu in the United States
In 1997, Marcelo moved to the United States to continue his journey, settling in Seattle, Washington. There, he became a pioneer for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in the Pacific Northwest, helping to grow the sport from the ground up. He quickly earned a reputation as one of the most knowledgeable and technical instructors in the region, producing multiple black belts and competitive champions.
Today, Professor Marcelo Alonso is considered one of the key figures in the global expansion of Carlson Gracie’s legacy and remains a highly respected leader in the Jiu Jitsu community.
Key Highlights:
Black Belt under Master Carlson Gracie
Over 40 years in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
One of the first instructors to bring BJJ to the Pacific Northwest
Trained under Rigan Machado and shared mats with legends
Respected worldwide for technical precision and lineage integrity
Marcelo Alonso’s name is synonymous with true Gracie Jiu Jitsu, and his influence continues to shape generations of martial artists in the Northwest and beyond.