Professor Ronaldo Candido started to train Brazilian jiu-jitsu when he was 11 years old when his brother Ricardo put him into the sport so he could learn how to defend himself against bullies in school. 
Ronaldo is a 3rd Degree Black Belt under Andre Galvão and Ramon Lemos, both founders of the world-renowned Atos Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. 

He is also a Brazilian Air Force Veteran. 
His main titles in Jiu Jitsu are; 8x State Champion, Pan Pacific Champion, 2x Pan-American Champion, and 3x World Champion (GI and NOGI). Ronaldo has over 20 years of experience in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and is the most awarded Professor/Coach available in Michigan.

Prof. Ronaldo is also a former MMA Fighter, where he became the Undefeated South American Champion, and was a Contender for the UFC TV show: “The Ultimate Fighter Season 24: The Tournament of Champions”. In addition to these achievements worldwide, Prof. Ronaldo was the Jiu-Jitsu Coach for one of the greatest fighters in UFC history- the Hall of Fame Former Featherweight Champion Jose Aldo Jr.

​

As Ronaldo started to train as a child, he understands the importance of developing eachs child’s mental strength, experiences, and outlook on life. His goal is to help all of his students, and especially the kids to succeed on and off the mats. He is truly passionate in his lessons, and wants each student to thrive, and become the best version of themselves.

Nicholas McCann started jiu jitsu at the age of 17, fell in love with it and started volunteering in the kids program to help the youth.

Nick is currently undefeated in his Super Fights (4-0), his most recent super fight win was at the Masonic Temple in Detroit under the event Grapple in the Temple which was the first Pro Jiu Jitsu event in Michigan. He won this in under 3 minutes with only 3 weeks of preparation.

Nick has fought all over the nation receiving 3rd place at the IBJJF Chicago Open and 2nd place at IBJJF Cincinnati open. He has also won numerous local competitions. Nick received his Blackbelt under Professor Ronaldo Candido at age 27 in November of 2022. 

Jessey has an impressive competition record, having won multiple championships in BJJ, Judo, and Sambo. He is a world champion in both BJJ and Sambo, as well as a national champion in Judo. Jessey has also won the World Cup Championship in Sambo. 

In addition to his competitive accomplishments, Jessey is a highly skilled and respected instructor. He has taught judo for several decades and has helped countless students achieve their goals on the mat. He holds the rank of Godan (5th Dan) in Judo.

Jessey's teaching style is focused on the fundamentals of BJJ, wrestling, judo, and sambo, ensuring that his students understand the principles behind each technique. He believes that by building a strong foundation, students can progress faster and achieve their goals more efficiently. 

As a Senior Research Scientist at Aramco, Jessey brings his analytical and problem-solving skills to his work in the energy industry. His background in martial arts has taught him the value of discipline, focus, and persistence, qualities that he brings to his work and the mat every day. 

Jessey enjoys sharing his knowledge and expertise as a judo and bjj instructor to the students at RCABJJ. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced practitioner, Jessey's passion for martial arts and dedication to his students will help you reach your full potential on the mat.

Jennifer started Jiu-jitsu in 2019 and instantly fell love with it. She currently coaches the women's only class where she strives to provide a safe environment where women and girls feel empowered while learning Jiu-Jitsu. 

Professionally, Jennifer is a licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in healing the affects of trauma through creating a safe and trusting therapeutic environment while utilizing treatment modalities such Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Jennifer also leads a Girl Empowered therapeutic group that promotes positive self-esteem and confidence with teen girls within the community. 

As a trauma therapist, Jennifer incorporates her expertise in healing the body's trauma with the mind-body connection ever so present in Jiu-Jitsu. Jennifer believes that jiu-jitsu can be therapeutic when practiced in a safe environment which can promote trauma healing.

Carlo is a lifelong Martial Artist with a passion for studying and sharing grappling. 

Originally from California, Carlo began grappling in high-school through the sports of Folkstyle and Greco-Roman wrestling under Bob Anderson and then soon found Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and began studying under Beau Hershberger. While studying at the University of California Santa Barbra, Carlo dove deeper into his Jiu-Jitsu journey, and received his purple belt, at Paragon Academy  under Sean Apperson.

Now a Michigander, Carlo runs a Thursday night Modern NoGi/Leglock class, and a Sunday open mat at the Ronaldo Candido Academy where he is ecstatic to continue to study and train under Ronaldo Candido, and Judo under Jesse Bouchard.