BREAKING UPDATE: Andre and Angelica Galvão Removed From Atos Leadership as Fallout Intensifies
Developing story – by Evelyn Sutton
In a significant escalation of the ongoing controversy, Atos Jiu-Jitsu headquarters has announced that Andre Galvão and Angelica Galvão have been removed from all leadership and operational roles within the organization, effective immediately. The decision comes amid mounting allegations of inappropriate conduct made public by former Atos athlete Alexa Herse and growing pressure from athletes, affiliates, and the broader Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu community.
The statement issued by Atos framed the move as part of an internal response to the allegations. However, critics within the community have raised concerns about transparency and independence, noting that details regarding oversight, investigation processes, or third-party involvement remain unclear.
Potential Context Behind Atos Leadership Changes
While Atos has officially removed Andre and Angelica Galvão from leadership roles, many in the community have noted the timing aligns with a wave of gyms and affiliates publicly condemning Galvão’s alleged actions and severing ties with the organization.
Observers suggest that these leadership changes may be part of a larger effort to contain reputational damage and stabilize the network of affiliated gyms, which spans multiple countries. Regardless of motive, the move highlights the power of community accountability and the consequences when leadership fails to maintain safe training environments.
Community Response Continues to Grow
Since Herse’s public statement alleging repeated inappropriate conduct by Andre Galvão during training and confirming that she has filed a report with local law enforcement, additional athletes, coaches, and affiliate gyms have publicly distanced themselves from Atos. Several prominent figures in Jiu-Jitsu have called for stronger safeguards, clearer accountability structures, and immediate removal of instructors facing credible allegations from positions of authority.
The International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) has also released a statement reaffirming its commitment to athlete safety and condemning abuse and misconduct in all forms, though it stopped short of announcing disciplinary action at this stage.
No Charges Announced as of Publication
As of this writing, no criminal charges have been publicly confirmed against Andre Galvão. Law enforcement authorities have not released details regarding any investigation. Galvão has denied the allegations through a public statement.
This moment underscores a broader reckoning within Jiu-Jitsu: whether institutions will prioritize safety and accountability over legacy, loyalty, and reputation.
Turning Point
The removal of Andre and Angelica Galvão from leadership marks the first formal organizational action by Atos and represents a turning point in how the situation is being handled. For many women and families in the sport, this moment underscores a broader reckoning within Jiu-Jitsu: whether institutions will prioritize safety and accountability over legacy, loyalty, and reputation.
The Atos EXODUS
As of early February 2026
Confirmed Athlete Departures / Public Disaffiliations
These athletes are widely reported to have cut ties or removed Atos affiliation from their profiles, with some supported by statements or widely sourced community reporting:
• Alexa Herse – publicly announced departure and allegations.
• Lucas Pinheiro – two‑time world champion, publicly reported distancing.
• Bruno Frazzatto – long‑time Atos member reported leaving and renaming gym.
• JT Torres – ADCC champion and gym owner reported leaving Atos.
• Adele Fornarino – reported to be publicly speaking against the situation and distancing.
• Rafaela Guedes – widely reported as no longer affiliated.
• Andy Murasaki – reportedly no longer training under Atos affiliation.
• Rose Miller – black belt reported to have removed Atos from bio and membership.
• Nikki Sullivan – reported by community sources to have left.
• Michael Liera Jr. – widely reported to have dropped his Atos affiliation.
Gyms & Affiliates Reportedly Dropping or Rebranding
These academies have been repeatedly cited across social posts and Reddit threads as having rebranded, removed Atos logos, or stated they are no longer associated with Atos:
• Logos Jiu-Jitsu (Denver) – reported to have dropped affiliation.
• Atos Atlanta (Bruno Frazzatto’s gym) – reported to have ended affiliation.
• Atos Winter Garden (FL) – reported as no longer affiliated.
• Atos Lake Tahoe / South Lake Tahoe – reported dropped affiliation.
• Atos Las Vegas – reported dropped affiliation.
• Logic BJJ (Kristian Woodmansee’s academy) – reported to have left.
• Essential Jiu-Jitsu (Westminster, MD) – reported to have dropped affiliation.
• Atos Miami – reported to have dropped affiliation (now D’Avila Jiu-Jitsu by community accounts).
• Entropy Jiu-Jitsu (Dubai) – reported dropped affiliation.
• Island Jiu-Jitsu (Hawaii) – reported dropped affiliation.
• Atos ABQ (Albuquerque) – reported to have left.
• Roma (location unspecified) – reported to have dropped affiliation.
• Atos Canberra (Australia) – reportedly rebranded to Elements Grappling Academy.
Important Context & Notes
• Not all reported departures have official announcements — some are inferred from gyms removing Atos sponsorship or logos, or athletes updating social media bios.
Why This List Matters to You
The sheer number of athletes and academies distancing from Atos — spanning elite competitors and regional gyms across several countries — illustrates that this is not isolated to a single person or rumor. It reflects a visible ripple effect throughout the sport’s community and infrastructure, especially as women and families assess where they train, whom they trust, and what standards matter.
“I grew up training at Atos. Andre Galvão promoted me to grey belt as a child. I once looked up to him not only as my professor, but as a hero and a father figure.”
alexa herse
This story is ongoing. Jiujiteira Magazine will continue to report developments with accuracy, care, and a commitment to centering athlete safety and truth.
You are Not Alone
If you or someone you know has experienced misconduct within a Jiu-Jitsu academy and needs support, consider reaching out to professional advocacy organizations or legal counsel equipped to handle sensitive matters involving athletes and minors.
📞 U.S. Crisis Hotlines
• 800-656-HOPE (Sexual Assault)
• 800-799-SAFE (Domestic Violence)
• 988 (Crisis Support)
• 800-422-4453 (Child Abuse)
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 for immediate support nationwide
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