Vagner Rocha was born in Brazil in 1982. He began his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey in 2001 under the tutelage of Jorge Popovitch. Early on, Rocha faced the challenge of balancing family obligations with his training, which led to a temporary pause in his progression. After securing stable employment and completing night school, he returned to jiu-jitsu with renewed focus and determination, laying the groundwork for his future achievements.

Throughout his ascent in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Rocha received close mentorship from the Popovitch family. Every belt, including his black belt, was awarded by Jorge and Pablo Popovitch. His black belt promotion in December 2007, celebrated at the team’s end-of-year dinner, marked a pivotal moment in his career. The technical guidance and competitive mindset instilled by the Popovitch family played a crucial role in shaping Rocha’s approach to both training and competition.

Coaching Foundations

In 2008, Rocha began coaching at the Popovitch academy, the BJJ Centre. There, he learned the fundamentals of instruction and gym management, gradually transitioning from his construction job to dedicate himself fully to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Establishing VRMA

In 2011, Rocha founded Vagner Rocha Martial Arts (VRMA) in Hollywood, Florida. Under his leadership, VRMA has emerged as a leading academy in South Florida, recognized for producing elite competitors and cultivating a strong, supportive grappling community.

Rocha has established himself as a mainstay at the ADCC World Championships, earning podium finishes at multiple editions of the prestigious tournament. He became a three-time ADCC medalist, capturing bronze in 2017 and 2022, and silver in 2019. Notably, at the 2022 ADCC World Championship, Rocha moved up from his usual 77 kg division to compete in the 88 kg category, where he secured a bronze medal at age 40. These achievements underscore his consistency, adaptability, and resilience at the highest level of no-gi grappling.

Rocha’s competitive résumé features headline appearances at major events. In April 2024, he faced Nicholas Meregali in the main event of 2024 Who’s Number One 23, taking on a significantly larger opponent in a high-profile superfight. This event was historic, as Rocha competed alongside his son Achilles and daughter Jasmine—potentially marking the first time a father and two children all appeared on the same professional grappling card. Under his mentorship, Jasmine Rocha won the 2024 ADCC West Coast Trials (Women’s 55 kg), earning her spot at the 2024 ADCC World Championship. This accomplishment positions the Rochas as the first father-daughter duo to compete at the same ADCC World Championships, highlighting their growing family legacy in the sport.

Rocha is renowned for his gritty, pressure-heavy grappling style, characterized by relentless forward movement and tactical control. He emphasizes the integration of sport jiu-jitsu with self-defense fundamentals, ensuring his students develop both competitive and practical skills. Drawing from his experience in MMA organizations such as the UFC and Strikeforce, Rocha incorporates real-world combat strategies into his instruction. At VRMA, he mentors a stable of high-level competitors—including his children—preparing them for both the demands of elite competition and the realities of self-defense.

In 2007, Rocha forged a significant alliance with Roberto 'Cyborg' Abreu, leading to the formation of 'The Avengers' team. This collaboration united elite athletes such as Pablo Popovitch, Marcus Almeida, Rodrigo Cavaca, and Raphael Chaves. The Avengers made a strong impact at the 2010 IBJJF No-Gi World Championship, achieving notable team success. Although the team eventually dissolved, Rocha maintained a lasting partnership and friendship with Abreu, continuing to train and collaborate with him in subsequent years.

In early 2025, Rocha faced a major health setback when he was hospitalized after suffering a heart attack. Demonstrating remarkable resilience, he announced his return to competition and is scheduled to face Kit Dale at 2025 Who’s Number One 29 in July 2025. Rocha’s ability to return to elite competition in his 40s exemplifies his enduring commitment, mental toughness, and passion for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.