Today we’d like to introduce you to Kaio Cesar Abrantes Fonseca.
Hi Kaio Cesar, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I dedicated most of my life to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. I began training when I was just 13 years old in my hometown João Pessoa, in the state of Paraíba, Brazil. Before discovering Jiu-Jitsu, I trained in judo as a child, but it was Jiu-Jitsu that truly sparked the passion and shaped the path for my life. The sport not only gave me discipline and resilience but also guided me toward a healthier lifestyle and helped shape my character.
As a purple belt, I began teaching classes in Brazil. That experience showed me how powerful teaching could be, not just to share technique, but to transform people’s lives, helping them build confidence, discipline, and achieve their goals on and off the mats. Later in life, I also pursued a degree in Physical Education, further deepening his knowledge and ability to help others through movement and sport.
In 2018, I moved to the United States with the dream of competing at the highest level and building a life around Jiu-Jitsu. My journey took me across the country, competing in major tournaments and training in different academies. I also played a key role in building a strong competition team at Gracie Barra Encinitas. After years of dedication and commitment to the sport, I achieved another dream: opening my own school, Gracie Barra Carlsbad, alongside my wife Barbara Dourado, Master Nelson Monteiro, and Rafael Ramos.
As a competitor, I achieved great success, winning the American Nationals and earning podium finishes at major tournaments such as Worlds No-Gi, Pan Ams, and the Brazilian Nationals, among many others. Today, I brings the same passion, energy, and dedication to every class I teach, inspiring both kids and adults to grow through the art of Jiu-Jitsu.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. One of the biggest challenges was learning a new language and finding the confidence to teach Jiu-Jitsu in English. Moving to another country meant not only adapting to a new culture but also proving myself and earning the trust of students, even though I wasn’t a native speaker. Those early days taught me resilience and pushed me out of my comfort zone.
Now, opening my own school has brought a whole new set of challenges. Building a community from scratch and growing a business while staying true to my values on the mats. Every step has had obstacles, but those struggles have also been the foundation of my growth as both a professor and a person.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
At Gracie Barra Carlsbad, our mission is to share the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in a positive, safe, and welcoming environment. We believe Jiu-Jitsu is for everyone, and our doors are open to students of all ages and backgrounds, from kids as young as three years old to adults who are stepping on the mats for the very first time.
What sets us apart is not just the quality of our instruction, but the culture we build around it. Our experienced instructors are lifelong practitioners and active competitors who bring both technical knowledge and real-world experience to every class. More importantly, we are committed to helping each student grow both on and off the mats by fostering discipline, confidence, resilience, and respect.
We’re most proud of creating a space where families train together, friendships are formed, and students feel supported in pursuing their individual goals, whether that’s fitness, self-defense, personal growth, or competition at the highest level.
At Gracie Barra Carlsbad, we’re more than just a Jiu-Jitsu school, we’re a community. And we want readers to know that when they walk through our doors, they’re not just joining a class, they’re joining a family.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
I believe the most important quality behind my success is my determination. Once I set a goal, I stay committed and work tirelessly until I achieve it. Giving up has never been an option for me. Growing up in a strong family that faced many challenges taught me to value hard work, perseverance, and integrity. Those lessons shaped my work ethic and continue to push me forward, helping me grow and accomplish everything I’ve achieved so far.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://gbcarlsbadjj.com/
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/gbcarlsbad
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573996408117
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/gracie-barra-carlsbad-2
