The Mendes Brothers: fueled by purpose
Photography Credit: Mason Monsevais
From the small city of Rio Claro in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, to the sun-soaked streets of Newport Beach, brothers Gui and Rafael Mendes have shared a remarkable journey—one marked by discipline, deep family bonds and an unwavering commitment to growth, both personally and professionally, and just as importantly, as husbands and fathers.
Raised in Brazil, Gui and Rafael discovered Brazilian jiu-jitsu at ages 11 and 12. Their talent was clear from the start, and by 18 and 19, they were already world champions—traveling internationally, collecting titles, and teaching seminars, including to the Sheikh of Abu Dhabi. On their first visit to the United States, they met PM Tenore, founder of RVCA and Tenore, and began planning what would later become one of the most well-known academies in the sport.
In July of 2012, at ages 22 and 23 and fresh off their third world titles, the brothers officially moved to the United States and founded Art of Jiu Jitsu Academy, now widely known as AOJ. Located on 17th Street in Costa Mesa, AOJ quickly gained international recognition and began attracting students worldwide. The academy's youth program became especially renowned for developing young champions in a structured, high-quality environment. By the time they turned 27, Gui and Rafael retired from competition—with 10 world titles between them—to fully focus on building AOJ into the world's most iconic jiu jitsu academy. Over the past 12 years, they’ve trained hundreds of youth and adult champions, built a vibrant community, and become known locally for the friendly, family-oriented environment their academy promotes.
But beyond their accomplishments on the mats, Gui and Rafael are proudest of what they’ve built at home. Both brothers met their wives—Samira and Renata—back in Rio Claro, Brazil, and have now been married for 13 years. They’ve made Newport Beach their home for the past 12 years, raising their children in a lifestyle rooted in family, wellness, and purpose. Gui and Samira are parents to Ayla (9), Ace (6), and Allie (3), while Rafael and Renata are raising Alek (10), Lexi (9), Rey (5), and Axel (2). All of their children were born here in Orange County and are growing up active, joyful, and connected to their community.
The Mendes families lead full, intentional lives. When not at the academy, they’re often riding bikes through Back Bay, spending quality time at home, visiting local restaurants, or attending services at Harvest each Sunday. Their children attend local schools, and several of them are already embracing sports as a path to growth. Alek, Ayla, and Ace compete on AOJ’s youth team, gaining confidence and learning the discipline of preparation. Lexi is thriving in gymnastics, while Rey, Axel, and Allie are learning the foundations of movement and focus through swimming and play. As parents, the brothers strongly believe in the power of sport to instill values that last a lifetime—resilience, smart decision-making, and the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people.
Although Samira and Renata's individual educational paths weren’t detailed, their presence is felt throughout every aspect of family life, supporting their children and sharing in the values that guide both households.
When reflecting on their work, Gui and Rafael speak not of wins or fame, but of impact. “We enjoy the opportunity to create a positive impact in the lives of our students,” they explain. “Helping them learn not only self-defense, but how to be part of a healthy, supportive community that pushes them out of their comfort zones—that’s what drives us.” At AOJ, classes are carefully structured by age and skill level, making the experience accessible and empowering for all. “Our mission is to spread this lifestyle to as many people as we can, so they grow not just as martial artists, but as human beings.”
Despite their elite status in the sport, both brothers live modestly and intentionally. They’re known for their clean, all-black wardrobes—not out of trend, but as a reflection of simplicity and practicality. “We’re not about flashy brands,” they say. “We care about good fit, quality materials, and staying focused on what matters.”
Newport Beach, they agree, has become more than just a home—it’s the setting for their children’s memories, a place that inspires healthy living, and a community they feel deeply connected to. “We love living here. It’s our dream place,” they share. “That’s why we feel it’s so important to give back—to help create a new generation of kids who are confident, courageous, and prepared to face the world.”
For Gui, Rafael, Samira, and Renata, success is not defined by titles or trophies, but by the lives they’re shaping—at home, in their community, and in the quiet, everyday moments that matter most.
www.artofjiujitsu.com | IG @mendesbros and IG @aojcostamesa