Today we’d like to introduce you to Rafael Dallinha
Hi Rafael, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I originally started out as a surfer in Brasil, aiming to go pro, but I quickly realized I wasn’t quite there yet (laughs). So, I shifted gears. I began training Judo at school in Brazil when I was about 10, and that eventually led me to try Jiu Jitsu when I was around 14. After just three months, I decided to start competing, and to my surprise, I began winning tournaments pretty quickly.
In 2004, I came to Los Angeles to compete in the IBJJF Pan American Championship, where I placed 3rd. That was a turning point for me, and I decided to stay a little longer to improve my English and dive deeper into Jiu Jitsu. Fast forward, and I’ve now been here for almost 22 years.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
My journey to the U.S. wasn’t easy. I arrived here without speaking any English and only had $725 in my pocket, but I was full of dreams—dreams to make a career in Jiu Jitsu. Back then, Jiu Jitsu wasn’t as popular as it is today, so I had to take on a lot of different jobs just to make ends meet. It took a long time to focus fully on Jiu Jitsu, but after beating some well-known competitors, I started getting sponsors and my life got a little easier.
A few months in, I knew I wanted to open my own gym and live the Jiu Jitsu life. It wasn’t easy—especially after undergoing 12 surgeries from competition injuries—but I’m here now, stronger and healthier than ever helping people overcame their fears and became a better person inside and outside the mats.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
At RADA Jiu Jitsu, we are passionate about providing top-tier Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) training in a welcoming, supportive, and community-focused environment. Our gym is known for fostering both personal growth and technical mastery, where students of all levels—from beginners to seasoned practitioners—can thrive.
What sets RADA Jiu Jitsu apart is our commitment to excellence and individual attention. We focus on the journey of each student, not just the destination. Whether you’re looking to improve your fitness, learn self-defense, or compete at a high level, our experienced instructors tailor their coaching to meet each student’s goals. Our team of dedicated coaches, including black belts with years of competitive and teaching experience, brings a blend of traditional techniques and modern BJJ strategies that keep students engaged and challenged.
What we’re most proud of is the strong, close-knit community we’ve built. Our gym isn’t just a place to train—it’s a space where members feel like family. We encourage mutual respect, growth, and camaraderie, and this makes RADA Jiu Jitsu a unique and special place.
We want our readers to know that at RADA Jiu Jitsu, it’s about more than just learning martial arts; it’s about building character, discipline, and confidence both on and off the mat. Our offerings extend beyond just classes—we host events, competitions, and seminars that encourage our members to constantly push their boundaries. Whether you’re here to train recreationally or pursue serious competition, RADA Jiu Jitsu offers a path that suits your needs and goals.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
While I was fully committing to Jiu Jitsu, I became a Helicopter pilot here in San Diego, and flying has always been a passion of mine. I’ve always loved the challenge and precision involved in piloting, and I find that many of the skills from flying—like focus, discipline, and quick decision-making—carry over into my approach to coaching and martial arts.
On top of that, I’m also a motorcycle racing enthusiast. I love racing motorcycles on the track in my free time. It’s all about pushing limits, staying calm under pressure, and constantly improving your technique, which are values I carry with me in both my personal life and as a Jiu Jitsu instructor.
I think these experiences really show that the principles of martial arts apply to many areas of life, and balance is key, whether you’re flying a helicopter, racing a bike, surfing or rolling on the mats.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.radajiujitsu.com
- Instagram: @radajiujitsu
- Facebook: @radajiujitsu
- Twitter: @radajiujitsu
- Youtube: @radajiujitsu
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/rada-jiu-jitsu-academy-san-diego
