professor agudo

Professor Agudo started training in 2003 at 15 years of age in Sao Paulo, Brazil under former UFC contender and World Champion Gabriel “Napao” Gonzaga, which would award Vinicius his black belt later in 2013. As a colored belt training in Brazil, Vinicius had great success in the sport medalling in the state circuit numerous times while also reaching the podium at the Brazilian Nationals and South American Championship. In 2007, Vinicius traveled to the United States for the first time to compete in the IBJJF World No-Gi Championship in California as a purple belt. After this experience, in order to chase his dream of opening his own academy, Vinicius would travel between Brazil and the US while teaching and competing in multiple BJJ and MMA competitions in New England and Brazil. Vinicius moved to Connecticut in 2014, in order to teach and train with Rafael “Formiga” Barbosa while expanding his network and continuing to evolve and grow in the sport. After a few months Vinicius decided to go California to take advantage of a great opportunity to keep chasing his dreams and continue training and teaching in San Francisco. After travelling the country competing and refereeing for the IBJJF, Vinicius would move to Dallas in 2016 and settle permanently in Wylie.

Agudo is a Third Degree Black Belt under Leo Vieira and an IBJJF American National Champion, 2-time IBJJF Pan Ams medalist, multiple time IBJJF Open Champion, Metamoris Veteran, 6 Time Fight2Win Winner and Kasai Pro Winner.

Instagram: @agudobjj

COACH BEN MASGA

Born and raised on the beautiful island of Guam, Vicente “Ben” Masga grew up immersed in a culture centered on respect, humility, a deep sense of family, and a genuine commitment to helping others. Guided by the spirit of Inafa’maolek (“to make good with one another”), Ben learned the importance of harmony and community well-being early in life.
In 2004, Ben joined the Guam Army National Guard, serving until 2013. During his service, he deployed to the Horn of Africa in 2005-2006 and again in 2007-2008, and to Afghanistan in 2009-2010 as part of Operation Enduring Freedom. After nearly a decade of dedication, Ben and his family relocated to Texas in 2013.
In 2021, Ben was introduced to Jiu-Jitsu through the We Defy Foundation, training under Professor Agudo as a scholarship recipient. This opportunity sparked a passion that became central to his life. That same year, Ben began assisting as a coach in the little kids and big kids Jiu-Jitsu programs, dedicating himself to mentoring young students and creating a positive, supportive learning environment.
In September 2024, Ben’s dedication and hard work were recognized when he was awarded his purple belt by Professor Agudo after winning the AJP Abu Dhabi Grand Slam against a brown and a black belt in the ParaJiu-Jitsu division—a milestone that further solidified his commitment to Jiu-Jitsu and its impact.
Beyond Jiu-Jitsu, Ben expanded his role with the We Defy Foundation and now serves as the North Texas Regional Ambassador and Southwest Logistics Manager. With a strong commitment to service, he works tirelessly to make Jiu-Jitsu accessible and impactful for other combat-injured veterans, helping them find resilience, camaraderie, and healing on the mats.

Instagram: @ben_masguam