Guilherme Mendes

Biography

Guilherme Mendes is a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt and one of the most technically refined competitors and coaches of the modern era. A multiple-time IBJJF World Champion, he became known for his precision, discipline, and the development of a highly structured, detail-driven style that helped reshape the landscape of lightweight jiu-jitsu. Alongside his brother Rafael, he played a central role in defining the guard systems that dominate the sport today.

Throughout his competitive career, Guilherme showcased masterful guard work, seamless berimbolo transitions, elite back-taking sequences, and one of the cleanest leg-drag passing games of his generation. He won four IBJJF World Championships and numerous major titles across Pans, Europeans, and other events.

After retiring from competition, Guilherme turned his focus fully to coaching. He co-founded Art of Jiu-Jitsu in Costa Mesa, California, where he helped build one of the most successful talent-development academies in the world. Under his leadership, AOJ became known for its rigorous drilling culture, precise mechanics, and the creation of world-class athletes such as Tainan Dalpra, Cole Abate, and many of the sport’s most successful youth competitors.

Guilherme Mendes is widely regarded as one of the most influential technicians and coaches in jiu-jitsu. His disciplined training methodology, technical clarity, and long-term developmental system continue to shape the next generation of athletes and solidify his legacy as a defining architect of modern jiu-jitsu.

Personal

* Legend status is reserved for retired athletes with outstanding achievements and a lasting impact on the sport.

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