Professors Valerio Ubaldini and Jefferson Moura at Gracie Barra Denver

Meet The Team

Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu Instructors

Certified, experienced coaches who put student safety, clear instruction, and long-term progress first.

Meet Our Jiu‑Jitsu Instructors

At Gracie Barra Denver, great instructors make all the difference through a student’s journey. They do more than teach Jiu‑Jitsu moves; they help students grow in confidence, stay motivated, and enjoy learning. Our dedicated, certified coaches work to make every student feel welcome, safe, and supported.

Prof. Valerio Ubaldini

Head Professor, Black Belt, 3rd Degree

Valerio Mori Ubaldini began his Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu journey in 2008 and earned his black belt seven years later from his instructor, Jefferson Moura, a 6th-degree black belt.

His discipline and dedication led him to train under Professor Victor Estima in Nottingham and Professor Jefferson Moura at the original Gracie Barra school in Brazil, founded in 1986.

As a competitor, Valerio is a two-time FILA World Grappling Champion in Gi and No-Gi, a two-time WTKA World Champion, a four-time FIGMMA Italian National Champion, an IBJJF European Champion, a Canary Islands Champion, a World Cup Champion, and winner of multiple IBJJF Opens. He is also the only Italian to have won a Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu championship held in Brazil.

Now a 3rd-degree black belt, Valerio founded and managed respected Jiu‑Jitsu academies in the United States for seven years. He is excited to lead Gracie Barra Denver and help students at every level grow on their Jiu‑Jitsu journey.

Prof. Jefferson Moura

Mentor, Black Belt, 6th Degree

Professor Jefferson Moura is a 6th-degree black belt and former World, Brazilian, Pan-American, and European Champion. Originally from Rio de Janeiro, he trained at Gracie Barra’s original headquarters and has guided the development of dozens of black belts and thousands of students throughout his career.

Professor Jefferson awarded Professor Valerio Mori Ubaldini his black belt and continues to serve as a mentor at Gracie Barra Denver. He is also the Gracie Barra Regional Director for Colorado.

Through decades of experience, leadership, and a deep connection to the Gracie Barra tradition, Professor Jefferson helps guide the school’s vision, support its instructors, and uphold the highest standards of the Gracie Barra method.

Our Instructors, Your Guides

Your safety and progress come first. Every instructor at our Jiu‑Jitsu gym is trained and certified through the Gracie Barra Instructor Certification Program (ICP), one of the most respected instructor development programs in martial arts.

Our team members are not only accomplished athletes; they are instructors who meet you where you are and help you get where you want to go.

Background checked for your peace of mind

CPR-certified and emergency-ready

Trained in current techniques and teaching methods

Backed by the global Gracie Barra network

Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu Instructors

Meet Our Jiu‑Jitsu Instructors

Prof. Valerio Ubaldini

Prof. Jefferson Moura

Our Instructors, Your Guides

See what Jiu‑Jitsu can do for you.