Head Master Daniel Gracie

Hailing from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Being born into the legendary Gracie family, Daniel spent much of his childhood on the mats. However, he began to take his training more seriously at the age of 10, studying with Carlos Gracie Jr., Rolls Gracie, and Robson Gracie. Throughout his career, he has competed in several prestigious tournaments, both domestically and internationally, achieving remarkable success. He became several times Brazilian Jiu Jitsu national champion, demonstrating his mastery of the art form.  After winning the absolute division of the World Jiu Jitsu Championship as a brown belt, Daniel was promoted to black belt directly from the hand of Ryan Gracie himself.

Prior to the UFC's inception, Daniel was a prominent mixed martial arts fighter in the PRIDE fighting championship in Japan starting in 2002. His mixed martial arts career lasted until 2011, when Daniel retired with a winning record after fighting in PRIDE, the International Fight League, and Bellator Fight Organizations.

As a 6th degree black belt, one of Daniel Gracie's most significant contributions to the world of Jiu Jitsu lies in his role as a passionate and dedicated instructor. Following in his family's footsteps, he has committed to sharing his knowledge and experience with aspiring professionals. He has opened several academies around the world, providing a stimulating environment for students to learn and grow. 

In 2013, Daniel opened his first school in Philadelphia, quickly becoming the premier Jiu Jitsu school in the Philadelphia area. Visited by fighters from all over the world, Daniel Gracie Jiu Jitsu has become synonymous with Jiu Jitsu excellence.

Through his teachings, Daniel Gracie emphasizes not only the technical aspects of the sport, but also its mental and philosophical dimensions. He instills in his students the values of discipline, respect, and perseverance. This encourages them to apply these principles in their lives and become the best version of themselves, both on and off the mat.