The taunts on my FB posts after I demand not to contact me... Is this what this guy, Marcelo, wants to do, revenge for an honest review? 7 day trial..1 day to be on mat with class/group. The rest of the 6 days are NOT with the class/group and u can watch the class.. seems individual session and other lecture type of crap is going to be the remainder of the free trial. Whi know, he might change this up after my exposure. I suggest if ur going to try the 7 days, ask whether u will get 7 days full with the group/class. 17 years of being here means nothing. 1 day (actually about 1 hour) will not allow u to know whether u want to join or not...so the 2nd day to bring up payment and a 'promotion' that happens every year is ridiculous. The 1 star is because of the actions taken by the professor after the review, which he was pissed (don't care as a review is a review w/out slander), and taunting me on Facebook after demanding to not contact me anymore is harrassment. I don't feel safe knowing he has my home address..but whatever, I'll be ready with my home cameras. read more

See all

Best Experience ever!!! I love training here learning Jiu-Jitsu! The instructors are very professional and experienced! Great for all Ages!! read more

Brilliant instructor! He breaks down the technique very well. He has a great format for training. And He's very knowledgeable too. The training partners are also great. Everyone's just trying to get better, and no one's out to hurt anyone. If you put in the time, you will get a lot out of this class. read more

My daughter has been doing jiu jitsu here for about a year. We love the gym and Marcelo is an amazing coach/professor/mentor/friend/person. I can't wait to have my son join the jiu jitsu family. It has not only taught my daughter self defense but all discipline and respect. read more

This guy deserves this negative review because he went out to post this challenge thing on facebook was totally false advertising. So i sign up, he calls me and im suppose to be there on monday to consult with him at 10am. So were on the phone at 9 and ask him am i suppose to bring certain pants or shoes etc. He says no will explain it all at the appointment. Okay so i get there and he had like 3 packets he was going to give me. 1 was an application with the first sentence saying how much money down im going to submit. So i let him explain himself since his thing says its free. So he does and says he wants 250$ down and 250$ when those 6 weeks were up, he did not mention "42 days" he said 6 weeks. So i ask him more questions like how many times i can come. He said 2 or 3 days per week throughout 6 weeks, im thimking great so where did the 42 days he made a post about came from? Lol. So i ask after i pay the down 250 and the 250 after the classes are done how much is it per month? He said $140 for 2 days out of the week and $150 for 3 days. So that doesnt sound too bad, but i didnt came to pay anything since his advertisement exclusively said "free". So i ask him more questions because im legitimately interested. I proceed to ask why am i paying 500$ for and he laid it out to me. -6 weeks of training -A packet with the name of the exercises and routines -A packet of foods and recipes -An online account i have to sign up for so i can see their training videos -A uniform to be part of his team He kept shifting focus towards his online stuff like he was trying to justify me paying $250 down now so i can access all this stuff online. He also said not to worry about missing a class because we can see the workouts online. He said even if we choose not to go further the videos will be lifetime viewable. It was a waste of time, i will not be signing up. Never met the guy before he seemed friendly at getting you to sign up but i came for the "free 42 day challenge" that he was supposebly giving out. Not to mention he deleted my comments on his facebook ad explaining about his little scheme. He did not let me take the application home to fill it out becuase if he wasnt playing games he would of let me. read more

Marcelo Cavalcanti Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy - Brazilian Jiu-jitsu Near Me - Carson, California

Marcelo is an excellent coach and the atmosphere in his gym is great for both beginners and advanced practitioners of jiu-jitsu. It's truly a great place for adults and kids learn the martial art from a highly qualified instructor. read more

If i can give this 6 stars I would've. So im a new student & its my 2nd week going 3rd, i just wanna say that im so glad that i signed up. Professor marcelo is such an amazing coach i couldn't ask for more. He is one of the best, if not THE best in town forsure! Im doing the 42days warrior challenge & i feel amazing ! 2nd week in & i lost 5lbs already! Every one so far is very friendly & helpful, i cant wait to go back on thursday :) read more

Marcelo Cavalcanti Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy - A day at the gym - Brazilian Jiu-jitsu Near Me - Carson, California

See all

Some time ago I was looking for a new gym after training for ~8 years and relocating. I tested out several and made the right decision to join MCBJJ. Marcelo's dedication at this gym is what makes the whole difference. Plus he had lower belts, higher belts, and students of all strengths, shapes, and sizes, which is important in training. Fast forward to today.... MCBJJ is like my second home and the team is like my second family. Our mantra is about self-discipline and positivity to improve your bjj skills and way beyond to all aspects of your life. The technique is vast and effective. The training is hard and the comradery is unparalleled. What separates this gym from many I have visited is the dedication of Professor Marcelo. He is there teaching most every class and training with ALL of the students every day. This not only gives him a precise view of where you are at as a student and where you need improvement, but also gives you the experience of training with black belts on a regular basis. It is an amazing experience that I recommend for everyone that feels like a part of their life is missing. -Sud read more

I've been training here for about 2.5 years. I've gained confidence in myself, got into much better shape, made many friends, and have learned to manage anxiety along the way. Jiu jitsu is a lot more than grappling. There is a journey that you embark on from the second you step on the mat. This is exactly what you need if you're tired of living a stagnant life. Do yourself a favor and step up to the challenge. read more

My husband goes and love it. I'm so happy to hear his stories when he comes home from practice.

After over eight years away from Jiu Jitsu I was eager to get back into training again. Once finding Professor Marcelo Cavalcanti's academy I knew that I had found the right place for me. Most people do not go back to jiu jitsu at 43 years old, but it was something that I knew I could do if I could find the right instructor and school. Most of my teammates are dads like me and all of my teammates are smart training partners, most of whom serve in the community as local small business owners, law enforcement, education, fire and rescue, as well as nursing and physical therapy. Professor Marcelo's jiu jitsu IQ and experience is world class and with the way he teaches his students it is clear that he wants us all to improve. You should definitely come check out one of the classes! Respectfully, Mr. Moore read more

Money There are a few negative ratings here on yelp that claim the gym owner (Marcelo) only cares about money. I can only speak of my experience, but I'd have to say that what those people claim couldn't be further from the truth. I signed up at the gym in mid Feb 2019. For a partial month of training, a gym sign up fee ($60), and some uniform patches, I owed Marcelo $111.00. Well, I recently got injured and showed up tonight to give Marcelo my doctor's note that would excuse me from training for a few weeks, and pay my dues of $111.00. When I tried to pay Marcelo the full $111, he insisted that I only pay him for the patches and the days that I trained in February. He told me to pay the $60 sign up fee after I have healed up and can come back to train, and at that point we'll resume the contract. Keep in mind that I already signed a 12 month contract with the gym and he had every right to claim the sign up fee. In no way did I get the impression that he was trying to rip me off as some of the negative reviews say. Instead, I feel comfortable knowing that Marcelo actually cares about his students health and finances. This is an awesome gym and I can't wait to get back to training. If you're on the fence about signing up, know that he's legit and has integrity. Thanks for reading my post. read more

Great place to train. Best decision I made last year was walking through in. I recommend this place to anyone trying to learn BJJ!

The 2 reviews that gave 1 star didn't even sign up for full classes. They complained about being confronted with the contract of how much and not being able to be shown anything with the 1 week of free sessions offer. How can you get to know what the academy has to offer in 1 or 2 days not even fully committed. My son is 6 years old and have been taking classes since he was 4 1/2.. What I've seen in the professor is his total dedication to the art and also to the kids in his classes. (I can't say anything how adult classes are since my wife and I do not take classes.) My son went to a tournament in San Diego last year, the only one from the academy that went, and the professor drove all the way from Carson for one kid to coach him in that tournament that one day, which he won a gold medal in. The classes are small, and he has an extra competition class for the kids who's advanced enough to compete, even white belts which my kid was. He does not charge for these extra classes which is an extra 3 days on top of the 3 days regular kids go to. So my kids go to 6 days now for the regular same price. So I do not understand the reviews of the 1 stars that Marcelo is money hungry. I even know of him helping a family with 3 kids going to competition, which is usually $99 each, which would be a total of $300 each time. He's helped subsidized more than 1/2 of their fees because the boys are very good and do not want them to not be able to go. If you are really serious to go you should at least try for 6 months to get a real feel of any academy not just for 1 or 2 days. The 6 months will not be a waste, you will take something with you to the next academy if you don't feel this one did not do you justice.. Actually, to get a real review for yourself, go to one of the classes and ask 1 or 2 parents how the academy is in person after a class. Don't just go by my review here or others, which can be applied to any academy you go to. This one I'm going by what my wife and I have experienced with this professor. read more

We have been coming to MCBJJ for almost 2 years now. My daughters have a great time here! Instructors are great with the kids and Professor Marcelo Cavalcanti takes time break down all the lessons to all levels of students. Great place to have your kids lean and practice the art of Brazilian Jiujitsu. read more

Great academy to train at, there is very much of a team or family feel when training here. Everyone is very welcoming and inviting and the quality of teaching is as good as it gets! Great for anyone from beginners to advanced!!! read more

Extremely glad my daughter joined this school. Professor Marcelo instills a lot of discipline and still keeps the kids entertained and engaged. He is very thorough when teaching techniques. Him and his staff manage to keep the kids in line and still have fun. They have a genuine care for their students to learn and grow. I am very happy to have the opportunity to be a part of this family. read more

Professor Marcelo has an excellent academy with top notch instruction. And the kids class does a great job of teaching children to be excellent partners, hard workers, and respectful. read more

I have been training here since 2013 and I can tell you I made the best choice ever joining the mcbjj family. Professor Marcelo is always there putting in time in all of us. I love training here with all my mcbjj family! I love the atmosphere and the people who train there always helping each other out and having fun! Highly recommend this academy! read more

This place is a complete rip off and scam! If you stop taking your child this scammer will take advantage and try to put you in debt for thousands of dollars. Save yourself the money and spend it on an instructor that actually cares about people and not just about putting people in debt. read more

Best decision I have made recently, now 8 months into my contract I am a completely satisfied customer/client. BJJ is a lifestyle, and I have enjoyed the lessons taught (take downs, passing guard, defense, discipline, etc.) and look forward to many more great BJJ sessions. Professor Marcelo is a great motivator and wants nothing but the best for his students. What better way to spend good quality/healthy time with your son? MCBJJ is the answer. My son and I are committed and greatly appreciative to have Marcelo as our professor in this fine art! If additional cardio training is need, check out their MMA fitness class on Wednesdays (I AM A BIG FAN OF THIS CLASS) has helped me tone up and lose 27 lbs. to date. Thank you for the great service MCBJJ. Completely satisfied!! read more

I have been going to this academy for over 2 years and so far it jas been a great experience. Its been a pleasure rolling with everyone white belts to black belts read more

Not sure why Yelp deletes my review. Here's an update. I'm still attending this school and have been satisfied with my progression and game. I really enjoy all the people here at the gym as they are friendly and no jerks. Marcelo is always helping and coaching, and correcting any mistakes which is great. Very friendly and professional environment and good class schedules. read more

Marcelo is amazing! He's patient and nice. Check out his classes some time. He offers a FREE 2-week Intro Program. read more

See all

As the previous 1 star rating suggested, Marcelo is an extremely shady person. The exact same situation happened to me, I signed up, attended two classes and then quickly realized that we could not afford the monthly payments (he supposedly offers 2 weeks free). I notified Marcelo several times that I needed to cancel the service and he ignored them all, trying to give me a guilt trip blaming his wife for not working and going to school, and that he was not making enough money from his students. He offered to lower the monthly, extend the first payment, private classes, you name it he tried to prevent me from canceling. I had to make a stop payment with my bank, and dispute the initial charge that was made over a month after I had quit. The So.Cal area is infested with excellent brazilian jiu jitsu studios, avoid this one at all costs! Extremely dishonest, his own students have even told me in person that he pushes them too hard and too fast, making them want to look elsewhere. He also enjoys promoting students early so they can assist with classes, which is frowned upon in BJJ. Now the company he uses for payment is trying to collect from me, obviously with his full cooperation or else they would have been notified that it was a canceled account. read more

I have been coming here for a total of 4-5 months. There is awesome instruction. Marcelo is a very friendly, personable, and awesome instructor. Also the other advanced students are are ready and willing to help you out. There are no egos and a very pleasant and awesome place to train Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He tailors to your needs whether you want to come in just to experience the art, get in shape, self-defense, or competition. No matter what your reason Marcelo will accomidate you. read more

I started back in July and I train once to twice a week due to my work schedule. This is a very good school for not only the younger guys and gals learning BJJ, but also for older adults who want to get in shape and learn techniques in a very laid back and cooperative environment. Professor Cavalcanti works hard with students of all levels, and I highly recommend this school for anyone interested in practical martial arts training and getting back in shape. Please come by and check us out! read more

I had the pleasure of training at the Academy while visiting Carson for work. I really enjoyed Professor Marcelo's instruction, and his students were very welcoming. I will definitely visit again when I am in this area of California, and I would recommend the academy to anyone who is looking for quality training with great people!! read more

I started training with marcelo a few years back and all i can say is that it is some of the best instruction i have ever had. Because of his easy and understandable training methods, his philosophy, and approach to the beautiful art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, many students come out of his academy as changed people. i have seen him raise many champions of this art because he instills the passion that he has with the art to his students. you can tell not only from me, a current student, but anybody who have ever trained with him. Marcelo Cavalcanti is an excellent instructor of the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, you are going to get an excellent workout, learn self-defense, self-confidence, coordination, and too many other things to mention. So come and train with us and get some good training in. its a life-changer for more info: mcbjj.com read more

Took two classes here. The classes are pretty small. There were like 4 students in the classes, and typically it's going to be difficult to develop a well-rounded game when you are that limited with the amount of people you can roll with. read more

One bad apple always tries to ruin the pail. I wonder what really happened to that white belt. :) Tap out anyone? read more

I am in my forties, have a wife and family, so I was very careful in selecting a BJJ school. I learned very quickly that many of the people (in the morning class) are fathers. As fathers, I know that we all understood the needs to train hard to protect your family, as we.. as minimize the chance for injuries. I studied different martial arts for most of my life. I have been continuously attending class since January of this year. All the upper belts have been very supportive and helpful with their specific feedback. This is the culture created by Marcelo. He pays careful attention, actively mentors, and rolls with all of his students. ( I am baffled by the negative reviews, quite honestly.) Two of my close friends(purple and blue belts) visited and attended class. They told me that they were glad to see me at a school with a teacher like Marcelo, old school values with a family of his own. It is a family school. read more

I have been coming here since July and I still attend 2 to 3 times a week. The school is great. It is rare that you have the actual black belt instructor teaching and not some assistant. Not only does he teach a technique he will watch and show you what you are doing wrong and correct it. Another plus is the atmosphere of the club. No one is out there trying to kill you. So you can actually try the moves you've learned. Above all Marcelo is a great guy, very approachable and patient. So if you want to learn brazilian jiu-jitsu and it's part of your bucket list come on down. read more

I been training with Marcelo for about 10 months now and i must say I am very happy training here. Marcelo is an excellent instructor who is very passionate about what he does. Something I like especially is his attention to detail , how quickly he can point out a mistake I make while sparring and correct it. Also, the students who train here are awesome and the advanced students are more than willing to help you out when you need. There is also no-gi classes and a muay thai/kickboxing class that takes place twice a week. Great place for anyone who wants to start or already trains BJJ. Come and check us out!!!! read more

My name is Professor Alfredo Miranda. I have been studying Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for 10 years now.I have a black belt under master Joe Moreira.I recently met Marcelo a little over a year now. when I first came into his business I approached him with Jiu Jitsu t shirts that I was selling.As any smart business person he asked me a few questions to see if I was legit.After attending his opening mat, he realize that I was legit a Jiu Jitsu practitioner, with open arms and sincerity he opened up his academy to me.I now assist him with teaching children's classes and adult classes.He has treated me with the upmost respect, and that to me is priceless.Marcelo is devoted to his business and students.I believe Marcelo is a very good Jiu Jitsu practitioner and an asset to the Carson community. read more

he is not a good instructor. i dont even think he is a legit blackbelt. i was a brand new white belt with no experience and was able to last with him throughout time limit and able to take his back. thats uncalled for. i encourage you all not to join. thanks for reading read more

I just joined this school after visiting a tone of other gyms throughout the SouthBay. After moving to Redondo, I needed to find a new school I could call home. I drive a little further to Carson, but it's worth it in order to train with Prof. Cavalcanti - I love his philosophy on the sport (especially competition), the way he runs the school like a family, as well as his level of technique. Someone else mentioned in their review about having no egos here...and it's also true. There are amazing high level belts who train super tough and hard (which a school needs), but they also take the time to help me at every step. I have not been here too long now, but have yet to have a class that was not taught by the professor - another review mentioned other students teaching and I have not seen that. Professor is also one of the few school owners who followed up with me after my first visit - and this was before I moved and he didn't know I was even looking. To me, that shows how he actually cares. He cares not only about his students, but those who pop in just for a visit. That type of attitude is seen in the way he runs the school as well. I recommend checking it out if you get a chance. I've been to a lot of 5 star Yelp schools that did not live up to the reviews - so it's unfortunate to see a couple people who had a bad experience here and brought down the rating. To me, from what I have experienced, I can't say enough good things. read more