13-Year-Old Hospitalized After Alleged “Gauntlet” Incident At BJJ Academy In Brazil

A 13-year-old boy was hospitalized in Brazil following an alleged "gauntlet" incident at a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy. The incident, which occurred at the CT Brother's Fight academy in São Vicente, São Paulo, involved the boy reportedly being subjected to a traditional BJJ initiation ritual where he was hit by multiple training partners. The boy sustained a fractured rib and a kidney contusion, requiring hospitalization.

The boy's mother reported the incident to the police, stating that her son was hit by approximately 20 people during the gauntlet. The academy's owner, Professor Diego Santos, acknowledged the practice of the gauntlet but denied that the boy was injured during it, suggesting the injuries might have occurred during regular training. He also claimed the boy's mother had previously signed a waiver.

The incident has sparked a police investigation, with the Civil Police of São Vicente looking into the matter. The case highlights a controversial aspect of BJJ academy culture, where traditional initiation rituals can sometimes lead to serious injury and legal repercussions, prompting discussions within the BJJ community about safety and appropriate training practices for minors.