Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu coach Melqui Galvão, once considered one of the most influential figures in modern competitive grappling, has reportedly arrived in São Paulo under police custody as authorities continue investigating multiple serious allegations against him.
According to Brazilian BJJ media outlets BJJBros and BJJCria, Galvão was transferred from Manaus, where he had been temporarily detained, to São Paulo after authorities issued a warrant connected to the ongoing investigation.
Reports state that Melqui arrived at Guarulhos Airport around 9:35 PM aboard a LATAM flight while escorted by police officers. Brazilian outlets further reported that he was initially taken for forensic procedures before being placed under the responsibility of São Paulo’s justice system.
The case has sent shockwaves through the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu world due to the severity of the accusations and Galvão’s status within the sport.
According to the translated Portuguese reports circulating online:
“Melqui Galvão arrived in São Paulo on Thursday night under police custody after being transferred from Manaus, where he was being held temporarily.”
Another report stated:
“Melqui Galvão is being investigated for allegations involving sexual crimes, threats, invasion of electronic devices, and abuse of vulnerable minors.”
Brazilian reports also claim that, as of now, seven alleged victims from different regions of Brazil have formally filed complaints against him.
One of the translated posts reads:
“So far, 7 victims have filed complaints against him in different regions of Brazil.”
The allegations first exploded across the grappling world after multiple women reportedly came forward accusing Galvão of predatory behavior. One alleged victim released an emotional public statement describing years of trauma and manipulation. Since then, additional accusations and testimonies have reportedly surfaced online, including allegations involving minors.
Authorities in Brazil are continuing the investigation, and no final judicial ruling has been made regarding the accusations.
The situation has deeply divided and shaken the BJJ community because Melqui Galvão was widely respected as a coach responsible for developing elite competitors, including his son, ADCC and IBJJF world champion Mika Galvão.
Just weeks ago, the controversy intensified when Mika Galvão publicly discussed creating a new team under the name “Mika Jiu-Jitsu,” leading many to speculate about distancing himself from the scandal surrounding his father. Mika later released a video clarifying the situation and addressing confusion surrounding the future of the team.
For years, the Galvão name represented one of the strongest competition teams in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Now, the story surrounding the family has transformed into one of the biggest controversies the sport has seen in recent memory.
As more alleged victims continue speaking publicly and new information emerges from Brazilian authorities and media outlets, the case appears far from over.
The investigation remains ongoing.
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