# Jackson Nagai

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## Overview

**Name:** Jackson Nagai


## Bio

Born in Manaus but raised in Japan from age 10, Jackson Nagai came to jiu-jitsu late after a childhood of basketball, karate, and kickboxing, driven by a desire to protect his family after his father’s departure. He started at 17 under Nori Toda at Evox BJJ in Hamamatsu, later training with Junior Handa at Jaws before returning to Manaus to earn his brown belt from Marcio Pontes of Nova União and train with Carlos Holanda. A competitive standout in the Amazonas colored belt circuit alongside his brother Samuel, Nagai’s international push came via Gabriel Moraes’ intervention with the state governor. After joining Checkmat in the US, he received his black belt from Lucas Leite in January 2020.

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**Last Updated:** September 05, 2026

**Data Source:** bjj.space (https://bjj.space/people/jackson-nagai)