# Waldemar Santana

> 

## Overview

**Name:** Waldemar Santana


## Bio

A former cleaner at the Gracie Academy who became a co-instructor under Hélio Gracie in the 1930s, Waldemar Santana is best remembered for his bitter falling-out with the family and the historic 1955 marathon bout that made his name. After a reprimand over a flooded gym led to his dismissal, Santana trained under Haroldo Brito and challenged Hélio, defeating him with a soccer kick in a nearly three-hour fight. He then drew Carlson Gracie in their first meeting before being stopped by corner stoppage in the rematch at Maracanãzinho in 1956.

---

**Last Updated:** June 05, 2026

**Data Source:** bjj.space (https://bjj.space/people/waldemar-santana)