Head Instructor at Renzo Gracie Latham
Professor Bruno Tostes
Professor Bruno Tostes is a lifelong martial artist and the founder of Renzo Gracie Latham. Originally from Brazil, he moved to the U.S. in 2001 to train under Master Renzo Gracie and went on to open his academy in 2005. Now, in the academy’s 20th year, he continues to lead a strong community of dedicated students.
Professor Bruno Biography
Originally from Brazil, Bruno Tostes began his martial arts journey training under Romulo Barral. After moving to the U.S. and training under Renzo Gracie, In 2005, he founded Renzo Gracie Latham in the Capital Region. Since founding Renzo Gracie Latham, he has trained countless practitioners and produced over 30 black belts, helping students of all levels reach their full potential. Now in its 20th year, his academy fosters a strong, dedicated student base. With a commitment to technical excellence, Bruno remains a respected leader in the BJJ world, helping students grow both on and off the mats.
His expertise extends beyond the academy, having formally coached UFC fighter Matt Hamill and worked alongside legendary figures such as Renzo Gracie, John Danaher, Frankie Edgar, and Georges St-Pierre. Bruno has also led students to great opportunities such as black belt under Professor Bruno Roger Zapata, who participated in the UFC Ultimate Fighter and went on to fight in the UFC, and black belt under Professor Bruno Marvin Maldonaldo who went on to fight in Bellator. With decades of experience and a relentless focus on technical excellence, Professor Bruno continues to inspire and mentor the next generation of martial artists, shaping both their skills on the mats and their character off them.
Professor Bruno currently teaches the Beginners classes and Kids Program at Renzo Gracie Latham. To meet him and try a class for yourself, sign up for a free intro class today!
Facts about Professor Bruno
- Professor Bruno has competed in MMA. He won his first Pro Fight by Armbar Submission but later decided to focus on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and teaching the next generation of students.
- He has cornered in the UFC for Matt Hamill for 11 of his UFC Fights, including the fight against Jon Jones that ended with disqualification.
- He has worked with many law enforcement agency, including the New York State Police, FBI and many local departments, teaching BJJ as a way of self defense and a crucial on job skill.
