Our Instructors

Douglas Barros

3rd-Degree Black Belt, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu | Law Enforcement | Founder, Brazu Academy

Professor Douglas Barros is a third-degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Master Roberto Marques Da Silva “Maguilla,” a direct black belt of Grand Master Carlson Gracie Sr. and Master Andre Pederneiras. He brings more than 25 years of martial arts experience and a lifelong dedication to pressure-style Jiu-Jitsu, emphasizing control, self-defense, and technical excellence.

Born in Pernambuco, Brazil, Douglas moved to the United States in 1995 and began his BJJ journey in 1998 after years of training in judo, karate, and taekwondo. In 2012, he earned his black belt and took home a bronze medal at the IBJJF Pan American Championship that same year.

Coach Douglas believes true mastery of Jiu-Jitsu requires more than memorizing techniques—it demands a deep understanding of body mechanics, timing, and concept-based learning. He continuously hones his craft by training at top academies around the world, including Nova União in Brazil, where he often returns.

As a decorated competitor, Douglas has medaled in numerous tournaments such as Grapplers Quest, WKA, and multiple Pan American championships.

Beyond the mats, Coach Douglas has served with the Montgomery County Police Department since 2008. Drawing on his law enforcement experience, he teaches BJJ as a tool for real-world de-escalation and has worked extensively with SWAT schools and at the Montgomery County Police Academy as an adjunct instructor.

He holds a degree in Economics from the University of Maryland and is passionate about mentoring the next generation through both martial arts and public services.

  • Kurt Marteney

    Instructor | Black Belt

    Kurt Marteney began training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 2000 at Gracie Barra Clearwater. Over the years, career transitions took him across multiple academies, including Quintella MMA and Delaware Jiu-Jitsu (Gracie Humaitá). After relocating to the DMV, he trained under Roberto “Maguilla” Da Silva and Professor Douglas Barros. In 2018, Kurt was awarded his black belt by Maguilla. His decades-long dedication to the art reflects a deep commitment to technical precision and continuous growth.

  • Juan Morales

    Instructor | Combat Veteran | Brown Belt

    Juan Morales began training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 2007 at 10th Planet Los Angeles under Eddie Bravo, where he earned his blue belt. While living in Germany, Juan began coaching MMA fighters in BJJ, combining practical application with technical instruction. A combat veteran and current federal employee with the U.S. Department of Commerce, Juan brings focus, resilience, and real-world perspective to his teaching on the mats.

  • Roosevelt Barros

    Instructor | Brown Belt

    Roosevelt Barros started his martial arts journey at age 11 with Tae Kwon Do, eventually earning his black belt and teaching both children and adults. He later expanded his training to include Hapkido and Judo. In 2007, he began practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, training not only in the DMV area but also in Brazil, Spain, California, and Philadelphia. Roosevelt balances a successful career as a Certified Public Accountant with his passion for martial arts and brings a disciplined, well-rounded approach to his instruction.

  • Nick Fliakas

    Instructor | Purple belt

    Coach Nick Fliakas began his Brazilian Jiu Jitsu journey in 2017 under Roberto Marques Da Silva “Maguilla,” training in the Carlson Gracie lineage. Drawn to the creative problem-solving at the heart of jiu jitsu, he quickly fell in love with the art. With over 12 years of experience working with children as a music instructor and licensed clinical therapist, Coach Nick brings a unique blend of teaching skills, psychological insight, and passion for martial arts. He’s dedicated to helping kids grow on and off the mats through the valuable life lessons jiu jitsu offers.