Instructors
![](https://riobjj.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/rafael-2-1536x864.jpg)
Rafael Lang, the founder and head instructor at Rio Jiu-Jitsu Lifestyle, brings 30 years of experience of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, beginning his journey in 1995. His impressive achievements include 2022 No-Gi Pans Jiu-Jitsu Gold Medal, the 2021 IBJJF Master Worlds Gold Medal, and two 2020 Pan Ams Gi Silvers, including one Silver in the absolute division. Rafael is also a multiple-time Submission Hunter Pro Heavyweight Gi Belt Holder, a Brazilian National Champion, and a seasoned veteran of Fight2Win and Kasai Pro. In addition to competing, Rafael has spent time training the Australian Army and Dallas police force. His extensive background and numerous accolades make him a distinguished leader and mentor in our gym.
![](https://riobjj.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Untitled-1_0000_Screenshot-2024-08-27-at-8.52.26 PM.jpg)
![](https://riobjj.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Untitled-1_0001_1914362_995765827163866_6915894253049377748_n.jpg)
![](https://riobjj.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Untitled-1_0003_450472426_1022582403210244_5274009094560916716_n.jpg)
![](https://riobjj.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Untitled-1_0004_Rafael-Lang-Pan-2020.jpg)
![](https://riobjj.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Untitled-1_0005_image000000.png-1.jpg)
![](https://riobjj.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Untitled-1_0006_WhatsApp-Image-2024-08-28-at-4.07.31-AM.jpg)
![](https://riobjj.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Untitled-1_0007_WhatsApp-Image-2024-08-28-at-4.07.30-AM.jpg)
![](https://riobjj.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Untitled-1_0002_415275849_876512374483915_8411798174827256910_n-1.jpg)
Staff instructors
![](https://riobjj.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/website_0007_IMG_3104.jpg)
STEPHEN HALL
4th Degree Black Belt
![](https://riobjj.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/website_0010_IMG_3043.jpg)
NICK REDING
3rd Degree Black Belt
![](https://riobjj.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Headshots_0016_david.jpg)
DAVID BINSWAGER
2nd Degree Black Belt
![](https://riobjj.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/website_0012_IMG_3014.jpg)
MALEK SAMADIAN
2nd Degree Black Belt
![](https://riobjj.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/website_0002_IMG_3181.jpg)
DREW ABBEY
Black Belt
![](https://riobjj.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/website_0014_IMG_2984.jpg)
PATRICK GRINNAN
Black Belt
![](https://riobjj.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Headshots_0008_alex.jpg)
ALEX MORE
Black Belt
![](https://riobjj.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/website_0011_IMG_3026.jpg)
RAMTIN NIKZAD
Black Belt
![](https://riobjj.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/website_0009_IMG_3055.jpg)
MANUEL SUERO
Brown Belt
![](https://riobjj.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Headshots_0001_sandra.jpg)
SANDRA SUTHERLAND
Brown Belt
![](https://riobjj.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/website_0005_IMG_3130.jpg)
TED GATES
Purple Belt
![](https://riobjj.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/website_0004_IMG_3144.jpg)
NOAH MARTIN
Purple Belt
![](https://riobjj.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/website_0003_IMG_3168.jpg)
DEVIN O'DELL
Purple Belt
![](https://riobjj.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Headshots.psd_0000_rato2.jpg)
OCTAVIO COUTO
In honor and memory of Octavio Couto “Ratinho” whos values and knowledge will never be forgotten.