Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu legend André Galvão defends himself against accusations of harassment within his team.

André Galvão promotes a jiu-jitsu event. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/AndreGalvão

One of the leading names in the history of Jiu-Jitsu, André Galvão finds himself at the center of a controversy that, unfortunately, has become increasingly frequent both inside and outside of combat sports. Last Sunday (1st), Alexa Herse accused the leader of the 'Atos JJ' team of committing harassment during training. Upon learning of the athlete's position, the Brazilian was quick to speak out about the case.

Through her official Instagram account, Alexa deeply regretted the alleged incident and gave her version in detail. In her account, the athlete stated that Galvão took advantage by standing in certain positions and that she was not the only one who suffered from the alleged conduct. Even so, Herse acknowledged the importance that André had in her personal and professional life and expressed her love for the renowned team, but decided to end her career there. And she didn't stop there. The athlete informed that she has already filed a complaint with the local police.

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"Moving on. I no longer have any ties with Atos Jiu-Jitsu. It's something I never imagined I'd have to say, as I dedicated a large part of my childhood and adolescence to this team. But, unfortunately, now I have no choice but to distance myself and speak out publicly. Over the past six months, I have been made very uncomfortable on several occasions by André Galvão.", wrote Herse.

“He touched me inappropriately during training. He repeatedly made comments about my body and appearance. During training, he would separate me from my chosen training partner, send my partner to train with someone else, and force me to train with him. He would moan sexually in my ear while on top of me. And on another occasion, when his head was very close to mine, he licked my ear.”

“I contacted Angélica Galvão, someone I’ve always admired like a second mother, someone who has known and guided me since I was a child. Not only did she do nothing about it, but she told me not to say anything and that, ‘If you’re wrong, you have to at least pretend you’re right.’ And also to ‘Don’t bite the hand that feeds you.’ She chose to ignore me, silence me, and protect her husband. But would you still feel that way if it were your daughter?” Now, she has chosen to discredit me and try to cover everything up, which, in my opinion, makes her just as responsible.”

“I grew up training at Atos, and it was André Galvão who promoted me to gray belt when I was a child. I am inconsolable. I admired him not only as my teacher, but also as a hero and a father figure. And to know that he did this not only to me, but also to many other people, is devastating.”, he concluded.

Response from André Galvão

For his part, André Galvão vehemently denied the serious accusation and lamented that his name was involved in a controversy of this magnitude. In any case, the jiu-jitsu legend showed full conviction of his innocence and, in his version of events, stated that the attempt to tarnish his image and that of 'Atos JJ' is basically revenge by someone who suffered punishments while part of the team. Bothered by the situation, the Brazilian has already announced that he will take legal action.

"In recent days, false rumors have been circulating online alleging inappropriate conduct with female students within my academy. These allegations are untrue, and we are taking appropriate legal action to protect the integrity of Atos. I have dedicated my life to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and to building academies where people can train safely, confidently, and with dignity. I am proud of our culture: respect, discipline, and professionalism – both on and off the mat." Our tatami area is surrounded by staff, students, and cameras, and we always work to maintain a safe, respectful, and transparent training environment., wrote Galvão.

"I will not engage in disputes on social media. However, I am already taking all necessary measures to protect our community and my family's name. I guarantee that soon the whole truth will be clarified, including the real facts about the departure of some team members due to recent administrative and financial changes." "All of this began with a person who left Atos recently, even before this whole situation, and who isn't even mentioned in the rumors, but who is acting out of personal revenge stemming from financial cuts and administrative decisions."

“It’s painful to see such malicious attitudes from someone who has benefited so much over the years and who should, at the very least, have some gratitude and respect for the team. In the end, I have faith that the truth will prevail. I remain by my family’s side, Sara and Angélica, through all the tribulations.”, he concluded.

 

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A post shared by ALEXA HERSE (@alexahersejj)

 

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A post shared by ALEXA HERSE (@alexahersejj)

 

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A post shared by Andre Galvao Official (@galvaobjj)