Master John Machado
Discipline, Technique & Tradition
Master John Machado is one of the most respected figures in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. As the youngest of the five Machado brothers, he has spent a lifetime preserving, practicing, and teaching authentic Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu through competition, instruction, and leadership. Today, he continues that legacy at John Machado Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Allen, Texas.
Lineage and Early Training
John Machado began training more than 40 years ago alongside his brothers and his cousins in the Gracie family, building his foundation within one of the most influential lineages in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He later received his black belt from Carlos Gracie Jr., marking the beginning of a career rooted in discipline, technical excellence, and tradition.
Competition Career
Master John Machado established himself as a dominant force in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, winning every major competitive title from 1982 through 1990. After graduating from Rio Federal College in 1990 with a degree in Environmental Farming, he continued his competitive success in Sambo, becoming Pan American Games champion in 1993 and again in 1994.
Expanding His Reach Beyond the Mat
Master John Machado’s career has extended beyond competition and instruction into film and television, where his martial arts background brought authenticity to the screen. His IMDb profile highlights credits including Blow For Blow (2026), Tonic (2025), Under Siege 2: Dark Territory (1995), and Redbelt (2008). His broader body of work also includes The Ropes, Alienated, Duel of Legends, Mean Guns, Heatseeker, Kickboxer 4, and The Aggressor, along with an appearance as himself on Walker Texas Ranger.
Keanue Reeves and the Machado Brothers on John Wick 2
Photo Gallery
Legacy and Teaching Today
Continuing the Legacy in Allen, Texas
Today, Master John Machado continues to share his knowledge through teaching and mentorship at his academy in Allen, TX. With more than four decades of experience in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, his instruction reflects not only high-level competition experience, but also a lifelong commitment to helping students refine their techniques, deepen their understanding, and grow through the art.
For students, training under Master John Machado means learning from a Coral Belt whose story is deeply connected to the history and development of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu itself.
The Machado Brothers Story Trailer
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