Practicing Jiu Jitsu since he was 15 years old, with more than 20 years of practice in the sport, Rafael began his journey as a coach while still in the purple belt. Rafael is a 1 dan black belt recognised by the largest entity of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, the IBJJF (International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation).

Rafael began his career in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Bahia – Brazil.

Rafael is one of the coaches of the Grappling Bros – GFTeam, where he has managed to help and prepare adults and children with Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for competitions and for life.