Our Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Lineage

Helio Gracie

Grandmaster Helio Gracie (b.1913 – d.2009) was a 9th Degree Red Belt, and one of the most important figures in Jiu-Jitsu history. His lineage is among the strongest in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Helio Gracie is regarded as a father of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, having refined the art with his brothers.

Francisco Mansor

Grandmaster Francisco Mansor is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Red Belt (9th Degree), respected vale tudo fighter, and the creator of The Kioto Academy. He is one of only six men outside the Gracie family to receive the BJJ rank of Red Belt from Helio Gracie.

Claudio França

Master Claudio França pioneered the teaching of BJJ in California, and holds a 7th degree Coral belt from Grandmaster Francisco Mansor. Master França has also earned his black belt in Judo from Gama Filho University in Rio de Janeiro.

John Villarruel

Professor John Villarruel is a 3rd Degree Black Belt under Claudio Franca. He also holds black belts from American Self Defense Academy under Master Mark Daniels, and Kuk Sul Do under Grandmaster Yang. Professor Villarruel awarded Ryan Jennerjohn his Black Belt in 2019.

Black Diamond BJJ Reno Instructors:

Carlos Gracie Sr. > Robson Gracie > Charles Gracie > Olin Coles
Olin Coles is our daytime adult training instructor, and 2nd degree Gracie BJJ black belt.

Helio Gracie > Francisco Mansur > Claudio França > John Villarruel > Ryan Jennerjohn
Ryan Jennerjohn is our lead instructor, and accomplished 1st degree BJJ black belt.