Author Archives: Valente Brothers Staff

Fudoshin Challenge

The Fudoshin Challenge promotes competition for development and not for ego. We could not be happier with the level of respect and discipline that exists on our mats. Congratulations to all who accepted the challenge and a big thank you to our students and friends who supported the event.

Valente Brothers teaching the US Army

Once again Valente Brothers had the honor and privilege to be selected by the United States Military to teach combat skills to service men and women of the US Army. 

According to the US Army’s own words:

“Our Soldiers enhanced their technical abilities, and gained confidence while receiving words of wisdom. We would like to send a special thanks to the Valente Brothers for taking the time to train, develop and motivate our soldiers. And we will be honored to have them again.” 

The Army also added that:

“We have the responsibility to plan and resource the best training for our Soldiers who deploy in defense of our Nation. Whether it’s complex rocket intercepts, or JiuJitsu trained by world class instructors, our goal in 2-44 is the relentless pursuit of readiness and lethality.” 

We are extremely proud and humbled by this recognition and motivated to continue our mission. 

Pedro Valente in San Diego

Professor Pedro Valente was invited by the Academia Gracie Humaitá to teach a grappling seminar during the annual instructors Meeting in San Diego, CA. Pedro taught some of Grandmaster Hélio’s favorite techniques and strategies.

Professor Pedro speaks in Los Angeles

On March 22, professor Pedro was once again invited to speak at the Jiu-Jitsu Lifestyle Summit in Los Angeles, CA, organized by Ryron Gracie. 

Professor Pedro’s talk was focused on the etymology and definition of jūjutsu, as well as grandmaster Hélio’s teaching methodology and style. VB black belt, Dr. Guy Scuderi, also gave a fine talk during the summit on how to minimize injuries during training.

General Michael Ferriter visits VB Headquarters

Retired United States Army Lieutenant General Michael Ferriter visited Valente Brothers on Monday, March 4th. Professor Gui Valente first met General Ferriter in 2008 at Camp Liberty, Baghdad, Iraq. Gui spent nearly two weeks teaching the men and women of the US military and allied forces.

General Ferriter, who holds a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, was very impressed with the Valente Brothers building and museum. After his private lesson with Gui Valente he stated on his Facebook account, “the Valente Brothers are Jiu-Jitsu icons who studied the history and have incredibly high wisdom. The culture of respect is the first thing you feel.”

In 2018, General Ferriter was named President and CEO of the National Veterans Memorial and Museum in Columbus, Ohio.

We at Valente Brothers would like to express all our gratitude for General Ferriter’s service to our United States of America.

General Michael Ferriter awarding Gui Valente a medal and plaque for his services in Baghdad, Iraq.
Gui Valente and Ryron Gracie flying to Baghdad in a US Air Force C-130 Hercules.