History & Lineage of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Canada

The development of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Canada is built on decades of dedication, leadership, and lineage. This page recognizes the individuals and foundations that shaped the art nationally.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Canada is built on a foundation of lineage, discipline, and decades of dedicated leadership. Its growth across the country reflects the efforts of pioneers who introduced, developed, and upheld the highest standards of the art.

The Sport Jiu-Jitsu Canada Federation (SJJCANF) recognizes the importance of preserving this history and honouring the individuals who established Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at a national level.

Grandmaster Marcus Soares

Canada’s Foundational Figure in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Grandmaster Marcus Soares is widely recognized as one of the most influential figures in the development of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Canada. As the nation’s only Red Belt Grandmaster, he represents the highest level of technical mastery, lineage, and lifelong dedication to the art.

A direct representative of the traditional lineage of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Grandmaster Soares played a central role in introducing and expanding the discipline across Canada. Through decades of teaching, mentorship, and leadership, he helped establish Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as a respected and growing martial art nationwide.

His influence extends far beyond individual academies. Generations of practitioners, instructors, and organizations across Canada trace their roots to his instruction and guidance.

“A legacy that defines the standard of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Canada.”

The development of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Canada is inseparable from the individuals who carried its principles forward with integrity and consistency. Grandmaster Soares’ contributions reflect not only technical excellence, but a commitment to preserving the core values of the art—respect, discipline, and continuous learning.

As Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu continues to evolve in Canada, its foundation remains rooted in authentic lineage and the leadership of those who established it.

Lineage & Historical Connection

Grandmaster Marcus Soares holds a direct lineage to the origins of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu through his training under Carlson Gracie, one of the most influential figures in the global expansion of the art and a central member of the Gracie family.

This connection places Grandmaster Soares within the original development of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Brazil, where the art was refined and carried forward through its founding practitioners. His training under Carlson Gracie represents a direct transmission of authentic Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu—both in technical application and in its core principles.

Through his work in Canada, Grandmaster Soares did not simply teach techniques—he established the art as it was originally intended, preserving its effectiveness, discipline, and lineage for future generations