João Paulo Oliveira da Silva Marques

João Paulo Oliveira, widely known in the BJJ community as 'Jones', built his martial arts foundation at the age of 12 through Capoeira, absorbing the movement principles, discipline, and cultural depth that the art demands. His pursuit of broader training led him to Thai Boxing (Muay Thai), but the coaching environment proved incompatible with his approach, and that friction ultimately steered him toward Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He began training BJJ in 1994 at the age of 14, and the sport quickly became his home.

His early development unfolded under João Luiz 'Frango', a former student of Ricardo De La Riva, grounding him in a respected lineage deeply rooted in the Rio de Janeiro grappling scene. After that initial period, Oliveira stepped away from the sport before finding his way back to the mats in 2002.

Belt Progression and Academy Mentorship

Oliveira's return to Jiu-Jitsu in 2002 brought him to Strauch Jiu Jitsu under the mentorship of Paulo Maurício Strauch, a pivotal step that would shape the full arc of his career. He earned every belt from blue to black within that academy, a trajectory that speaks to both his commitment and the quality of guidance he received. Over time, Oliveira grew into the role of Master Strauch's trusted right-hand man, taking on a central part in the academy's daily operations and competitive culture.

Competition Record

On the competition circuit, Oliveira proved himself a consistent force across multiple belt levels in Rio de Janeiro. He claimed the state championship title at blue belt through the FJJ Rio in 2004, then returned to the top of that same podium at black belt in 2013. That same year, he earned a silver medal at the Brazilian National Championship in the No-Gi Master Black Belt division. His earlier years produced additional regional titles, including a Rolls Gracie Cup championship at blue belt in 2005, a Copa América title at master brown belt in 2010, and an Alfa Barra title at brown belt in 2011, alongside further victories across Rio de Janeiro competitions.

Developing the Next Generation at Strauch

Oliveira serves as the coordinator of the competition team at Strauch Jiu Jitsu, taking direct responsibility for the development and preparation of athletes representing the academy. The role reflects the trust Paulo Maurício Strauch places in him and positions Oliveira as a key architect of the team's competitive identity and long-term growth.

Social Impact Through Jiu-Jitsu

Oliveira's influence extends well beyond the competition floor. He heads a social project based in Vila Militar in Copacabana, using Jiu-Jitsu as a vehicle for youth engagement and community development in Rio de Janeiro. The initiative makes BJJ accessible to those outside the traditional competitive pipeline, reflecting a broader vision of the sport as a tool for meaningful social impact. His dual role as competitive coach and community leader represents a comprehensive contribution to both the sport and the communities it reaches.