ABOUT US

West LA Jiu Jitsu is a dedicated academy focused on the art of grappling and ground fighting, offering a transformative experience for both newcomers and seasoned martial artists alike. Even for veterans of other disciplines, learning the fundamentals of Jiu Jitsu for self-defense provides practical skills that prepare them for real-world scenarios in a way no other art can. Jiu Jitsu emphasizes technique, leverage, and strategy over brute strength, making it accessible and empowering for people of all ages and body types.

Beyond the physical benefits, Jiu Jitsu serves as a powerful tool for personal growth. It teaches patience, humility, and resilience, encouraging students to step outside their comfort zones and embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. At West LA Jiu Jitsu Academy, we believe that the lessons learned on the mat translate into everyday life — helping individuals develop confidence, mental toughness, and a strong sense of self. Our mission is not only to build skilled martial artists but also to inspire each student to become the best version of themselves. Here, we celebrate progress over perfection, support one another like family, and cultivate an environment where every individual can thrive and unlock their fullest potential.

Values: 

• DISIPLINE

• RESPECT
• HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

• GOOD LIVING

• SENSE OF COMMUNITY

INSTRUCTORS

Professor Rafael Pinheiro

4th Degree Black Belt | IBJJF Certified | 20+ Years of Experience

Professor Rafael Pinheiro is a distinguished 4th degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, internationally recognized for his technical mastery and strategic approach. With over two decades of experience as both a competitor and instructor, he has dedicated his life to the art, inspiring students and fellow athletes alike.

At Fortaleza Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Professor Pinheiro offers private and group instruction in an environment founded on the core values of strength, resilience, and community. His teaching emphasizes precise technique, thoughtful strategy, and the development of both physical and mental fortitude.

Competitive Achievements

Professor Pinheiro has consistently showcased his skills on the global stage, earning podium finishes at major International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) events. His record highlights his dedication and excellence:

• 2023 Orange County Open — Champion

• 2022 Miami Open — Champion

• 2022 Atlanta Spring — Bronze Medalist

• 2022 North American — Bronze Medalist

• 2021 North American — Bronze Medalist

• 2016 British Open — Champion

• 2016 British Open (Absolute) — Champion

• 2016 London Open — Silver Medalist

In addition to these titles, Professor Pinheiro has competed in prominent tournaments such as the IBJJF World Master and IBJJF Pan, facing elite competitors including Matthew Gillette and Paulo Brasil da Silva.

Rankings

• IBJJF Master 2, Black Belt, Super-Heavyweight All-Time Division Rank: 134

• Recent-Time Division Rank: 64

• All-Division All-Time Rank: 21

Background

Originally from Brazil, Professor Pinheiro is a proud member of the Gracie Barra team and earned his black belt under the legendary Roberto “Cyborg” Abreu. He currently competes in the Master 2 / Super-Heavyweight division and continues to contribute to the BJJ community through his teaching and mentorship.

Teaching Philosophy

Professor Pinheiro is deeply passionate about sharing his knowledge and helping students reach their fullest potential. His classes focus on practical, effective techniques tailored to each individual’s needs, fostering both technical growth and personal transformation.

Professor Aleksandr Ustimenko

IBJJF Medalist | Head Coach | Dedicated Mentor

Professor Aleksandr Ustimenko is a committed Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner and instructor, known for his competitive excellence and passion for teaching. A dedicated competitor, he actively participates in international tournaments, continually refining his skills and staying at the forefront of the sport.

Competitive Achievements

Professor Ustimenko has demonstrated exceptional skill on the global stage, earning multiple podium finishes at prestigious IBJJF events:

• 2025 San Jose International Open IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu No-Gi Championship — Silver Medalist

• 2025 Orange County Winter International Open IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu No-Gi Championship — Silver Medalist

His strong competitive track record underscores not only his technical mastery but also his dedication to personal growth and the evolution of his students.

Coaching Career

With extensive experience coaching athletes of all ages and skill levels, Professor Ustimenko brings a holistic and dynamic approach to instruction.

• ALL IN Academy LA (2025–Present) — Head Coach of children’s and adult programs, shaping a new generation of martial artists with a focus on technical precision and character development.

• Beverly Hills Jiu-Jitsu Club (2022–2025) — Full-time instructor, guiding students in both gi and no-gi disciplines.

• Usti Team (2021–2022) — Co-owner and head coach, responsible for training programs, competition preparation, and community events.

• Senna Fight Academy (2017–2021) — Assistant coach, working closely with children and adults and helping to organize tournaments and events.

• Stone Fight Gym (2016–2017) — Assistant coach and gym administrator, combining hands-on instruction with operational leadership, including financial management and client relations.

In addition to academy coaching, Professor Ustimenko organizes sports camps for children and adults, providing intensive training environments that emphasize technical advancement, tactical understanding, and personal development.

Teaching Philosophy and Vision

Professor Ustimenko believes in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as a powerful tool for building physical fitness, mental resilience, and lifelong discipline. His mission extends beyond competition results — he strives to foster a strong, supportive community where students grow as athletes and individuals.

Driven by a passion for sharing knowledge, he is dedicated to mentoring young athletes, empowering them to achieve their goals both on and off the mat. Through a combination of technical instruction, tactical training, and character-building guidance, he cultivates an environment where every student can thrive.

Coach Dennis Wood

Combat Veteran | Master Martial Artist | Accomplished MMA & BJJ Coach

Coach Dennis Wood is a highly respected martial artist and combat veteran whose journey spans over three decades of dedication to multiple disciplines. His extensive and diverse background has shaped him into an exceptional instructor, mentor, and leader in the martial arts community.

Martial Arts Journey

Coach Dennis began his martial arts training in 1988, studying Kenpo Karate and earning the rank of brown belt. In 1991, he expanded his skills under the legendary Grand Master Doo Wai, becoming a 6th degree black belt and Master Level Instructor in Kung Fu.

While serving in the military, Dennis continued to pursue his passion for martial arts through boxing and kickboxing, maintaining a strong commitment to physical and mental discipline. He initially started wrestling in high school and resumed training in 2004 after his military service, studying under All-American wrestler Blair Green.

During this time, he also began competing in No-Gi grappling tournaments, earning top placements in events such as the OTM Best of the West Championship and the USA Grappling Submission Only Series.

Coaching and Team Leadership

In 2005, Coach Dennis began coaching and quickly built one of Southern California’s premier amateur MMA teams. Under his guidance, the team produced numerous state champions, organizational titleholders, and professional fighters. He is a certified MMA coach with the California State Athletic Commission (CSAC) and CAMO (California Amateur Mixed Martial Arts Organization).

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Career

Coach Dennis formally started his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey in 2017 under Professor Gabriel Rudiger, where he also assisted in running the academy. After moving to the South Bay in 2019, he trained under Professor Alex Novaes, achieving the rank of brown belt.

In 2022, he relocated to Westwood, where he opened his own academy and continued his BJJ journey with Professor AJ Agazarm. In 2025, he transitioned to training under Professor Rafael Pinheiro, further honing his technical skills and competitive edge.

Competitive Achievements

IBJJF Highlights (Brown Belt):

• 🥇 Orange County Spring Open (2025)

• 🥇 Orange County Winter International Open (2025)

• 🥈 American Nationals (2025)

JJWL Highlights:

• 🥇 2024 JJWL Worlds

• 🥈 2023 JJWL Worlds

• 🥇 2022 JJWL California VI

Coaching Philosophy

Coach Dennis embodies the values of perseverance, adaptability, and continuous learning. His mission is to empower students of all levels, fostering growth in both martial arts and life. Through his diverse background and unwavering commitment to the craft, he inspires athletes to achieve their full potential on the mat and beyond.