Born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Professor Ariana Cruz is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt under Professor Marcio “Pé de Pano” Cruz, a multiple-time IBJJF World Champion. She began her Jiu-Jitsu journey in 2009 and proudly became the first female student at Marcio Cruz BJJ in Tampa. Prior to this, Professor Ariana trained in Muay Thai for over a decade and also has experience in boxing, giving her a well-rounded foundation in martial arts.
Professor Ariana is deeply passionate about Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and has immersed herself in nearly every aspect of the sport. She loves teaching the gentle art, helping students grow through discipline, confidence, and skill. She also enjoys competing in tournaments to enhance the skills she has acquired on the mat.
Education & Acknowledgements
Professor Ariana brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and physical conditioning. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education and a postgraduate specialization in Physical Conditioning. Her combination of practical background experience and formal education gives her a unique ability to help individuals of all ages achieve their fitness and martial arts goals—both on and off the mat.
🥇 2x Gold Medalist – World Master IBJJF Championship
🥇 1x Gold Medalist – American National IBJJF Championship
🥈 1x Silver Medalist – World Master IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu Championship
🥈 1x Silver Medalist – Pan IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu Championship
🥇 3x Gold Medalist – IBJJF Open Tournaments Championship
🥉 1x Bronze Medalist – Pan IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu Championship
