Charles Anzalone

Professor Charles 'Chuck' Anzalone began his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey in Chicago, training under Grand Master Carlson Gracie Sr. He lived with Carlson and trained twice daily, immersing himself in the art. After Carlson Gracie's passing, Anzalone continued his development under Master Ricardo De La Riva, who awarded him his black belt in August 2008, making him the first and only American black belt under the legendary De La Riva. He has also received degrees from Master Cyborg Abreu. In 2005, Anzalone brought Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to Buffalo, New York, founding Buffalo Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy and becoming Buffalo's first and highest-ranking BJJ black belt.