Andre Galvao has publicly denied allegations of inappropriate conduct and announced his intention to pursue legal action, stating that he would “take the necessary measures to protect our community and my family’s name” and assuring supporters that “soon everything will come to light.”

Galvao’s response was shared via social media as an image of his face with text overlaid in Calibri Bold, while the headline appeared in a different font. The formatting made the statement difficult to read for some viewers, drawing criticism unrelated to its content. Some observers also speculated that the statement may have been drafted using ChatGPT, pointing to what they described as an overuse of em dashes. Galvao has not addressed those claims. The full statement is attached at the end of this article.

Escalation After a Week of ATOS Departures

Galvao’s statement came after a turbulent week for Atos Jiu Jitsu, during which several athletes and staff members announced their departures from the team. The exits began before any public allegations were made, lending weight to claims that concerns had been raised internally prior to the situation becoming public.

Among the most recent high-profile departures is Bruno Frazatto, adding to growing uncertainty around the future direction of the team.

Galvao has attributed the controversy to a single former member who left ATOS following administrative and financial cuts, claiming that this individual is acting out of personal resentment and is responsible for spreading damaging narratives.

Alexa Herse Comes Forward

The situation took a more serious turn when Alexa Herse, a young woman who trained at ATOS since childhood, released a multi-slide statement on social media directly challenging Galvao’s version of events.

In her opening statement, Herse wrote:

“Moving forward I am no longer associated with Atos Jiu Jitsu. This is something I never imagined I would have to say, as I have spent most of my childhood and teenage years dedicated to this team. But now unfortunately I have no choice but to step away and speak out.”

Herse went on to describe what she characterized as a pattern of behavior over a six-month period, alleging that Galvao touched me inappropriately during training sessions and repeatedly commented on my body and my appearance. She further alleged that Galvao would interrupt her training to partner with her himself, claiming that he made s**ual moaning sounds in my ear while he was on top of me. In another alleged incident, Herse claimed that when his head was very close to my head he licked my ear.

Allegations Involving Angelica Galvao

Herse also described reaching out to Angelica Galvao, Andre Galvao’s wife and a prominent figure within ATOS, alleging that her concerns were dismissed.

She stated:

“I reached out to Angelica Galvão, someone I have always looked up to as a second mother and who has known me and mentored me since I was a kid. Not only did she do nothing about it, she told me not to say anything and told me that if it’s wrong, you have to at least act like it’s right. And don’t bite the hand that feeds you.”

Herse said she was deeply affected by this response, adding that Angelica chose to ignore me, silence me and protect her husband and that this makes her just as responsible.

“Beyond Heartbroken”

The emotional impact of the situation was evident throughout Herse’s statement. Reflecting on her long history with the team, she wrote:

“I grew up training at Atos, and it was Andre Galvão who promoted me to grey belt as a child. I’m beyond heartbroken. I once looked up to him not only as my professor but as a hero and a father figure, and to know that he would do this not only to me, but to multiple other people is beyond devastating.”

She emphasized that speaking publicly came at great personal cost:

“I never wanted this. I have nothing to gain by making this public. I’m choosing to leave behind all my friends and my family. This is my truth. And I know for a fact that I am not the only affected person of this.”

Herse also confirmed:

“I have filed a report with local law enforcement.”

Divided Community Response

Reaction within the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu community has been sharply divided. Some have called for patience, due process, and verified evidence before reaching conclusions. Others have pointed to long-standing concerns about power dynamics within the sport and a culture that can place instructors beyond meaningful accountability.

The controversy follows broader discussions already taking place within the community, including comments made by Adele Fornarino, who recently addressed the ATOS exodus in a public speech, warning that “people in positions of power are taking advantage of the most vulnerable in our sport.”

Galvao has stated that he will not engage in social media disputes and will instead address the matter through legal and internal channels. Herse, meanwhile, has encouraged others who may have had similar experiences to come forward.

As of now, the situation remains ongoing, with no legal conclusions publicly announced.

OFFICIAL STATEMENT from Andre Galvao (Full Text)

February 1st, 2026

Over the past few days, false rumors have circulated online alleging inappropriate conduct with female students. These claims are untrue and we are taking the proper legal steps 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’m proud of our culture: respect, discipline and professionalism on and off the mats. Our mat space is surrounded by staff, students and cameras and we have always worked to maintain a safe, respectful and transparent training environment.

I will not engage in social media disputes, however, I will take the necessary measures to protect our community and my family’s name and I assure you that soon everything will come to light, especially the facts on why a few staff members left due to recent administrative and financial changes.

This all started by someone who recently left ATOS before this whole thing happened and this person isn’t even stated in the rumors but obviously has a personal vendetta due to financial cuts and administrative decisions. Which aches our hearts to see such devious ways by someone who has been benefited so much through the years and who should have at least the minimum amount of gratitude and respect for the team.

If you are a current student or parent and you have any concern or a question, I encourage you to reach out directly. We will take any genuine concern seriously and address it through the proper channels, not through vague accusations on social media.

To everyone that has supported our academy and our team: thank you. We will continue focusing on what matters, providing world class instruction in a respectful environment and keeping our academy a place where all students can grow.

In the end I have faith that the truth will prevail. I stand alongside my family, Sarah and Angelica through all tribulations.

God bless you all.

Andre Galvao

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