…we are in the business of building confidence, confidence not only to defend yourself — we build the confidence required to face life.

— Renzo Gracie

Our Team

Master Renzo Gracie

About Master Renzo Gracie
Master Renzo Gracie is one of the most important figures inside of The Gracie Family. He is a 6th degree Black Belt and has been practicing Brazilian Jiu Jitsu since childhood. He is a pioneer in the world of Mixed Martial Arts and has become one of the most well known fighters in his profession. In 1997 he moved from Rio de Janeiro to New York, where he would go on to build one of the most respectable martial arts schools in the world. The main philosophy that Master Renzo lives by is that “He doesn’t only teach martial arts, he teaches confidence.” We maintain the legacy alive here on the mats at Renzo Gracie Chicago.

5th Degree Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Black Belt /Judo Black Belt / Undefeated Professional Mixed Martial Artist / BJJ World Champion / American National Champion / European Champion / Brazilian National Champion / Martial Arts Hall of Famer

Christian Uflacker, founder and professor, is a 5th degree black belt under the legend Master Renzo Gracie, Professor Uflacker is undefeated Professional MMA fighter, BellatorMMA & StrikeforceMMA veteran and fought on televised cards for Spike TV and Showtime. Born and raised in Rio de Janeiro Brazil, Professor Uflacker has a vast knowledge of the sport with his 30+ years of experience. Some of his major Brazilian Jiu Jitsu titles include: IBJJF World Champion, American National Champion, Brazilian National Champion, and The European Open Champion.

Professor Christian has been teaching a wide-range of skill sets in BJJ for 20+ years. He has implemented a BJJ training system for the United States Marines Marital Arts Core Program. In addition, a large portion of his students come from different law enforcement backgrounds. Not only is Christian a pro-fighter, he has coached many students to fight in some of the major MMA organizations in the world, including UFC, BellatorMMA, and One Championship. Professor Christian has instructed multiple students into achieving their own personal goals.

Professor Christian was inducted into the Martial Arts Hall of Fame in 2025.