Professor Rafael Valverde

Professor Rafael Valverde brings a lifelong, multidisciplinary approach to martial arts shaped by early discipline and continuous study. He began training as a child, earning a 1st Degree Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do at age 12, later building a strong foundation through Krav Maga (Level 3) and four years of high school wrestling.

With over 12 years of Muay Thai and 13+ years of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu training, Rafael approaches Jiu Jitsu as an integrated system that blends grappling, wrestling, and striking awareness. A BJJ Black Belt and accomplished competitor with numerous medals, his teaching emphasizes conceptual understanding, adaptability, and pressure-tested fundamentals.

Off the mats, Rafael brings the same precision and problem-solving mindset to his professional career, holding a Master’s degree in Accountancy and maintaining an active CPA license, reinforcing his focus on structure, efficiency, and long-term development in both Jiu Jitsu and life.