Brazilian jiu-jitsu coach Melqui Galvão, 47, father and trainer of black belt phenom Mica Galvão, was arrested on Tuesday, April 28, in Manaus, in compliance with a temporary arrest warrant issued by the São Paulo Justice. He is being investigated on suspicion of sexual crimes against former students, according to reports by G1 (Globo), Veja, and CNN Brasil.
The warrant was issued on April 23 and orders 30 days of temporary detention. According to the Brazilian press, Galvão presented himself to authorities in Manaus, where he also serves as an investigator for the Civil Police of Amazonas. The case is under the jurisdiction of the São Paulo Justice.
What the investigation says
The initial complaint was filed by a former student, currently 17 years old. According to G1, two other women have come forward with similar accounts, and one of them claims the alleged events took place when she was 12 years old. Reports cite alleged incidents that occurred both in Brazil and abroad, during travel for tournaments.
The investigation, according to sources cited in the Brazilian press, points to suspected crimes including rape of a vulnerable person, sexual harassment, threats, and unauthorized access to electronic devices. Melqui Galvão has not been convicted of any charge. The case continues under investigation and respects the right to a full defense and due process.
Audio attached to the case file
Among the evidence gathered by investigators is a 13-minute audio recording in which the coach allegedly apologizes and offers financial compensation in exchange for keeping the case private. The audio, reported by Mix Vale and cited by Veja, is part of the case file and is still subject to forensic analysis.
Who is Melqui Galvão
Melquisedeque de Lima Galvão Ferreira is one of the most influential figures of the new generation of competitive jiu-jitsu. He leads the team that bears his name, headquartered in Jundiaí (São Paulo) and Manaus, with affiliates in other Brazilian states. Alongside his son, Mica Galvão, he has built one of the most decorated competition teams of recent years, with consistent presence at IBJJF, ADCC, and BJJ Stars events.
His reputation inside the sport has long been surrounded by controversies, including public disputes over training methods and a high-profile feud with Brazilian black belt Nicholas Meregali. The criminal accusations now move the case beyond the competitive arena.
Reaction across the BJJ community
The arrest spread quickly across Brazilian and international BJJ media. Accounts such as BJJBros, TrainAngryMMA, and outlets like BJJEE have been publishing updates throughout the day. Athletes who train or have trained with Melqui have not yet made public statements at the time of publication.
The case adds to a wave of allegations shaking the jiu-jitsu world in recent months. In February, top-level athletes broke ties with Atos Jiu Jitsu over public accusations against the team’s leadership in the United States. Last week, Brazilian instructor Luis Eduardo cut ties with Orlando BJJ over what he described as a harassment complaint dismissed by management.
BJJ Girls Mag’s stance
BJJ Girls Mag is following the case and will continue to publish updates only based on verified sources and official documents. We reaffirm that every report deserves rigorous investigation, that victims deserve protection, and that due process must be respected in every scenario.
This story will be updated if and when new documents, statements, or responses from Melqui Galvão’s defense become available.