At the age of 8, Amadeo started wrestling, providing him with an early appreciation of the benefits that sports can bring to children’s development. He had a memorable first encounter with BJJ as an adult: nearly getting choked out by a 12 year-old girl. That experience showed him the power of jiu jitsu, compelling him to start training.

Over the past several years Amadeo has dedicated himself to developing himself as both a competitor and an instructor under the guidance of Mike Jaramillo and David Cheung. A go-to training partner for fellow high-level athletes, he is known for his diligence, determination, and grit.

A key lesson Amadeo highlights when working with students — particularly kids — is how to approach problems with intelligence rather than brute force. He is thrilled to play a formative role in others’ journeys with jiu jitsu at Renzo Gracie East Side.