Nova União is a Brazilian martial arts team and academy with a strong presence in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and mixed martial arts (MMA). Founded in 1995 by André Pederneiras and Wendell Alexander, the organization originated in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and has become one of the most established teams in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Nova União has produced numerous world champions in both gi and no-gi competition and operates a global network of affiliated academies.
History
Nova União was founded in 1995 following the merger of the jiu-jitsu teams led by André Pederneiras and Wendell Alexander. The organization’s name, which translates to “New Union,” reflects the coming together of the two academies under a single banner.
Initially based in Rio de Janeiro, Nova União established itself as a competitive force through consistent success at national and international Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu tournaments. Alongside its achievements in grappling, the team gained international recognition through the success of its mixed martial arts athletes in major promotions.
Over time, Nova União expanded internationally by establishing affiliated academies throughout the Americas, Europe, Asia, and Oceania, while maintaining its roots in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instruction and competition.
Leadership
Nova União was founded by:
- André Pederneiras
- Wendell Alexander
André Pederneiras has served as the organization’s head coach and has played a significant role in developing both Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitors and mixed martial artists.
Training Philosophy
Nova União emphasizes a structured approach to technical development, combining fundamental skills with competition-oriented training. Key principles include:
- Strong technical fundamentals.
- Positional control and efficient movement.
- Progressive skill development.
- Competition preparation.
- Physical conditioning and discipline.
The organization offers instruction in both gi and no-gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for practitioners ranging from beginners to elite competitors.
Competition Success
Nova União athletes regularly compete in major Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu events, including:
- IBJJF World Championship
- IBJJF Pan Championship
- IBJJF European Championship
- Brazilian National Championships
- ADCC World Championship
- ADCC Trials
- Professional invitational events
The team has earned numerous individual world titles and team honours throughout its history. Nova União has also achieved significant success in mixed martial arts through athletes competing in leading international promotions.
Notable Athletes
Over the years, Nova União has included many accomplished Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitors, including:
- Robson Moura
- Bruno Bastos
- Rodolfo Vieira
- Vitor “Shaolin” Ribeiro
- Leonardo Santos
- João Miyao
- Paulo Miyao
- Thalison Soares
The organization has also produced notable mixed martial artists, including:
- José Aldo
- Renan Barão
- Marlon Moraes
- Cláudia Gadelha
The roster has evolved over time as athletes have joined, departed, or established their own academies.