The Jiu-Jitsu community is grappling with the fallout of serious allegations against instructor Alcenor Alves Soeiro.

The allegations have uncovered a disturbing pattern of abuse spanning at least 15 years, with victims revealing their experiences in interviews with TV Globo.
According to police, at least 12 men have already come forward, with six more awaiting their opportunity to give statements.

The crimes reportedly occurred between 2011 and 2018, during trips organized for BJJ competitions.
Law enforcement officials have stated that the evidence against Alves includes recent videos and photos:

We do have material evidence in this regard, and I would also like to emphasize that he is an individual who knows he is wrong, but continues to do so.

In response, the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Confederation (CBJJ) and the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) issued a joint statement expressing their outrage…
And announcing Alves’ permanent ban from all activities under them:

The Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Confederation (CBJJ) and the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) express their deep indignation at the acts of s*xual vi0lence attributed to Jiu-Jitsu instructor Alcenor Alves Soeiro against minors, as widely reported by the press.

Such crimes are unacceptable and violate the most fundamental ethical principles of the sport.⁠

While the ban has been broadly supported, it has also sparked a deeper conversation about accountability within the sport.

Kyra Gracie took to social media to raise critical questions about the broader implications of the ban:

Taking the discussion further, it is crucial to address the banning of individuals with proven criminal records, especially in serious cases that, unfortunately, have been ignored by CBJJ.

There are numerous reports of abuse against women and assaults that have not led to effective actions, allowing these individuals to continue competing and even teaching classes.

In other words, Gracie is questioning whether there is a case of “double standards” in the sport and the way law is enforced:

What, then, are the criteria for banning? Is it the severity of the case or the gender of the victims?

It is essential that all complaints are treated with the seriousness they deserve to ensure a safe and respectful environment for everyone.