In 2019, Joao Gabriel Rocha departed from Soul Fighters to co-found Double Five Jiu-Jitsu alongside his longtime coaches and teammates. His leadership played a pivotal role in shaping the academy's technical approach and competitive philosophy, significantly enhancing its reputation within the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu community.

In 2022, Joao joined Alliance as the head instructor at Alliance Dallas. Balancing coaching responsibilities with active competition, he continues to mentor students while refining his own elite-level techniques. His dual role underscores his commitment to excellence and his dedication to fostering technical growth among practitioners.

2023 IBJJF No-Gi Pan Championship

Joao Gabriel Rocha marked his return to elite no-gi competition by capturing the ultra-heavyweight title at the 2023 IBJJF No-Gi Pan Championship. Demonstrating strategic dominance and precise technique, he also closed out the absolute division alongside his brother, Pedro Rocha, with the siblings securing gold and silver medals respectively.

ADCC and IBJJF "The Crown"

Further solidifying his position among the sport's elite, Joao competed at the prestigious ADCC 2022 and participated in IBJJF's "The Crown" event. His performances showcased tactical versatility, exceptional positional control, and a deep understanding of modern no-gi strategies, reaffirming his status as one of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu's top competitors.