Alcenor Alves

On November 23, 2024, authorities arrested Brazilian jiu-jitsu coach Alcenor Alves in Itajaí, Santa Catarina, while a children's BJJ competition was taking place nearby. The public nature of the arrest immediately drew widespread attention across the grappling community, as did the gravity of the accusations against him.

Alves faces charges of rape of a vulnerable person and sexual exploitation. Authorities allege that he sexually abused at least 12 children over approximately 15 years. Multiple individuals connected to the BJJ community, including top competitors, brought the allegations forward, prompting swift law enforcement action. The case has since become a focal point in broader discussions about the safeguarding of minors in youth BJJ programs and the responsibilities coaches carry when holding positions of authority over young athletes.

Following his arrest, both the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) and the Confederação Brasileira de Jiu-Jitsu (CBJJ) issued permanent bans against Alcenor Alves, barring him from participating in, coaching at, or maintaining any affiliation with events sanctioned by either governing body.

The swift institutional response from both organizations reflected the severity of the allegations and their commitment to athlete safety, particularly the protection of children within the sport. The case continues to be widely referenced in community discussions surrounding the need for stronger safeguarding protocols, mandatory background check requirements, and more robust oversight mechanisms within youth BJJ programs at all levels of competition.