09/01/2026
INSTRUCTOR SHOUTOUT
One of the things I’m most passionate about as an instructor is continual learning. Over the last several years I’ve trained with more than 60 different instructors outside of my agency requirements. I am regularly asked who I recommend and will be doing regular Instructor Shoutouts.
Today I’m spotlighting Professor Pedro Sauer. I got interested in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in the early 2000’s after watching his challenge match against Lance Batchelor “Mr. Utah.” Pedro was about 150 pounds. Batchelor was a 250 pound bodybuilder who thought size and strength would decide the fight. It didn’t. That video put me on the path. I was lucky enough to have a Pedro Sauer affiliate gym in town, and that’s where I started. The first BJJ seminar I attended was at the gym I was training with guest instructor Professor Sauer. I’ve watched his online material and have also been able to attend a few of his classes at Jeff Curran’s BJJ Retreat in Florida, (you should go, it’s my favorite BJJ training experience and I hope to see you there!) where he teaches every year.
Pedro is brilliant, kind, and passionate. His values are exceptionally high. I’m grateful for every opportunity I have had to learn from him.
He is an 8th Degree Coral Belt from Rio de Janeiro. Rickson Gracie introduced him to jiu-jitsu as a teenager. In 1985 he received his black belt from both Rickson Gracie and Grandmaster Helio Gracie. In 1986 Helio awarded him the Técnico de Jiu-Jitsu certificate, a rare recognition of teaching mastery. He left a career as a stockbroker in Brazil, came to the United States in 1990 and helped pioneer BJJ in America.
He leads The Pedro Sauer Jiu Jitsu Association and has hundreds of academies across six continents. In 2005 he was named “Best of the Best Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Instructor” in a worldwide ADCC poll. Rickson promoted him to 8th degree in 2010.
His jiu-jitsu teaches leverage over strength, control over chaos, self-defense first. He doesn’t just show how to do a move. He explains the why.
I also love the standard he sets for how one should carry themself.
If you get the chance to train with Professor Pedro Sauer, take it. Highly recommended.
