Meet Sensei Rodrigo Antunes
Founder of Six Blades Jiu-Jitsu South Denver
One of the most respected figures in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Sensei Rodrigo Antunes has dedicated his life to teaching, refining, and sharing authentic Jiu-Jitsu with students around the world. His work has impacted thousands of students — from beginners and families to competitors, law enforcement professionals, and instructors.
Why I Started This
Rodrigo Antunes’s journey began in Brazil, where he trained in traditional Jiu-Jitsu under legendary instructors and alongside his renowned Gracie family in 1984. Early in his career, he realized martial arts was more than technique — it was a path for personal transformation.
After moving to the United States, he saw an opportunity to bring authentic Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to a wider audience. His mission became clear:
Help people grow stronger in body, mind, and character through structured martial arts training
Through years of dedication, sacrifice, and teaching, he built an academy culture centered on discipline, respect, and real skill — not shortcuts or trends.
His vision has always been simple:
Create an environment where anyone — child or adult — can build confidence, resilience, and self-belief.
Experience & Expertise
- 6th Degree Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (Highest Rank in Colorado)
- 4 x World Champion
- 2 x IBJJF Pan American Champion (Gi and No Gi)
- 1 x IBJJF Worlds No Gi Champion
- 4 x IBJJF International Master Champion
- 3 x IBJJF European Champion
- 4 x IBJJF Worlds Masters Medalist
- 2 x Brazilian Champion
- 3 x American Nationals Champion
- 2024 World Ranked #1 in the World
- 2023 & 2017 World Ranked #2 in the World
- F2win Masters Heavy Weight Belt Holder Champion
- F2win Masters Middle Heavy Weight Belt Holder Champion
- UFC Grappling Belt Champion
- Metamoris Veteran
- EBI Veteran
- United States Martial Arts Hall of Fame – Ambassador
- Judo Black Belt (Gokor Chivychian & Gene LeBell)
- Luta Livre Black Belt (Hugo Duarte)
- Budokon – Mobility Martial Arts Ambassador
- CSW Certified Instructor (Erik Paulson)
- Ginastica Natural Level 3 Certified Instructor
- Gracie Survival Tactics Certified Instructor
- Decades of teaching and training experience
- Instructor to thousands of students worldwide
- Seminar instructor across multiple countries
- Trainer for law enforcement and professionals
- Recognized leader in modern Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instruction
What We Believe
At our academy, we believe martial arts should develop the whole person — not just physical ability.
Discipline
Progress comes from consistency, effort, and respect for the process.
Structure
Clear systems create real improvement and measurable growth.
Confidence Through Achievement
Students earn results through effort, not shortcuts.
Positive Training Culture
A supportive environment helps students thrive and stay committed long-term.
“We don’t chase hype. We build real skill.”
Featured In
- International seminars and workshops
- Martial arts conferences and training events
- Interviews and instructional appearances
- Guest speaking engagements within the martial arts community
His reputation is recognized globally among practitioners, instructors, and students alike.
Train With Sensei Rodrigo
Book your free private class and experience firsthand what makes Six Blades South Denver different.
Get a Free Private ClassStart With Our
Free Private Class!
Tell us a little about you (or your child) and we’ll help you decide if this is the right fit.