The Brazilian jiu-jitsu community is facing another reckoning as the Jiu-Jitsu Federation of Amazonas takes decisive steps in the wake of coach Ancenor Alves’ arrest for charges of SA of minors. Federation president Elvys Damasceno has announced plans to file a formal request for the revocation of Alves’ black belt and initiate his expulsion from the sport.
Alves, who was detained during a youth competition in Balneário Camboriú, has been accused of abusing his position of trust to exploit young athletes. The case has stirred outrage across the Brazilian jiu-jitsu world, particularly after prominent competitors Matheus Gabriel, Ary Farias, Thalison Soares, and Meyram Alves came forward with harrowing accounts of abuse during their formative years in the sport. Their joint statement called for greater vigilance and a commitment to ensuring safe training environments for future generations.
In a public address, Damasceno condemned the actions attributed to Alves as a “very, very serious case” and emphasized the Federation’s commitment to protecting the integrity of the sport. “This person can no longer be called a teacher,” Damasceno declared. “Our decision is to expel him and seek the revocation of his black belt at the state, national, and international levels.”
Damasceno confirmed that the Federation, affiliated with CBJJ and IBJJF, is drafting official documentation to submit to governing bodies. These steps aim to ensure that Alves is permanently barred from teaching or working within the sport. “This measure is necessary to prevent further barbarity and to protect children and adolescents,” he stated, underscoring the importance of creating a secure environment for all participants.
The Federation also praised the swift actions of law enforcement, particularly Dr. Guilherme Torres and his team, for apprehending Alves and bringing attention to the allegations. Damasceno further highlighted the exemplary work of many dedicated jiu-jitsu instructors, emphasizing that the actions of one individual should not tarnish the reputations of others who uphold the values of respect and safety within the sport.
