BIO

BJJ Instructor and Community Builder

Vânderson is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt with over three decades of experience, devoted to teaching and fostering the growth of his students and community. His BJJ journey began in 1994 in Araçatuba, São Paulo, under Gilberto Gabas, a student of Professor Marco Barbosa. He earned his purple belt there before becoming a training partner of Paulo Ricardo (Paulito), helping establish the first Brazilian Top Team affiliation outside Rio de Janeiro under MMA legend Murilo Bustamante.

Relocating to São Paulo for work, Vânderson trained under Leonardo Kobbaz of the Rocian Gracie Team, receiving his brown belt from Mestre Rocian Gracie and his black belt from Leo in 2006. He credits his foundation to his first coach, Gilberto Gabas, and his early mentor, Alexandre Procopio (Xexe), who guided him through his first techniques. From his white belt days, Vânderson was involved in teaching, demonstrating his passion and dedication to sharing BJJ knowledge.

In 2009, Vânderson arrived in Wellington, New Zealand, and was inspired by a small community training under the name Combat Room. When that group disbanded, he carried forward their spirit and established Combat Room Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, a school dedicated to excellence, inclusivity, and personal growth. Located in central Wellington, the school offers a welcoming environment with top-tier facilities, including FUJI mats and a strength and conditioning gym.

Vânderson is inspired by life’s challenges, the lessons learned through connections, and the passion of his students, who continually motivate him to refine his teaching. He has built a strong, supportive community that values respect, perseverance, and growth, making Combat Room a sanctuary for learning and practicing BJJ. His devotion to the art and his commitment to his students' success are the cornerstones of his legacy.

HOW DID YOU CHOOSE THE SCHOOL’S NAME?

When I came to Wellington, New Zealand in 2009, a group of people were training BJJ, Judo and Kickboxing casually in a very small place named Combat Room.

They disbanded but the gratitude I had to find a community in a new country inspired me to continue the name when I started my own school 10 years ago. Combat Room Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a community where we share the knowledge of BJJ and to foster the personal growth that comes with learning a martial art.

WHO OR WHAT INSPIRES YOU?

What inspires me is the challenges that life presents and the lessons I learn by connecting with people and nature.

WHAT IS SOMETHING SPECIAL OR UNIQUE ABOUT YOUR SCHOOL AND STUDENTS?

My school is in a busy area of central Wellington and provides a a safe sanctuary for people to come together to share the passion of BJJ. BJJ is relatively young in New Zealand, but the community we have built is strong and very supportive of each other. My students are passionate and eager to learn, they inspire me and each other to be the best version of ourselves.

WHAT MADE YOU CHOOSE FUJI MATS ?

I’m always looking to improve my school and I want to offer the best to my students. FUJI Mats are the best on the market. Very high quality and excellent custom service. Jimmy Pedro is a expert with the highest standards.

What is the most rewarding part about working in the martial arts field?

I’m very grateful to share my passion and devotion to BJJ with my students. I get to train and practice BJJ everyday and I get to watch my students grow and develop on their BJJ journey.

WHERE ARE YOU BASED?

Our club located at Level 2, 302 Taranaki Street, Wellington. We have a strength and conditioning gym and a large mats area. We hold beginners classes, women’s classes, no gi classes and kid’s classes.

We pride ourselves on being an inclusive, clean and safe place to learn and practice BJJ.