# Crezio de Souza ("Crezinho")

> Coral Belt

## Overview

**Name:** Crezio de Souza

**Nickname:** Crezinho

**Belt Rank:** Coral Belt


## Bio

The son of a Helio Gracie disciple who helped bring jiu-jitsu to Petrópolis, Crezio de Souza started training at age five and won his first competition at six. He joined Carlson Gracie’s camp at 21, living in the gym and treating Carlson as a second father, a dedication that fueled an undefeated run from 1985 to 1995 with wins over Paulo Caruso and Renzo Gracie. Cross-training in judo, wrestling, and boxing, he earned a spot on Brazil’s national wrestling team for the 1991 Pan American Games and the 1992 Olympics. His vale tudo debut came in 1995, avenging Amauri Bitetti’s loss by submitting Johil de Oliveira with a rear-naked choke. A 1997 bout against Dan Henderson ended in a TKO he felt was premature, and training for a rematch cost him sight in his left eye. He returned to competition at age 40, taking silver at the Brazilian Nationals and winning matches at the World Championships before falling to eventual champion Mario Reis. He now runs Team Crezio Lutas in Petrópolis.
## Achievements

- Brazilian National Silver Medallist (2002)
- Crezio de Souza vs Renzo Gracie Challenge Champion (1998)
- Duelo de Titas Desafio – Jiu-Jitsu vs Luta Livre Champion (1995 – Vale Tudo)
- Free Still Champion (1996 Vale Tudo)
## Lineage

- Carlson Gracie (Red Belt)

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**Last Updated:** September 08, 2026

**Data Source:** bjj.space (https://bjj.space/people/crezio-de-souza)