On Sunday, April 26, 2026, Brazil 021 Arlington Heights hosted one of the biggest days in the academy’s history: the 6th degree black belt promotion of Prof. Andre “Negão” Terencio. The ceremony took place on our mats at 10:45 AM, and students, families and friends of the academy were invited to be part of it. Brazil 021 offers Arlington Heights BJJ classes for kids and adults, coached by world champion black belts.
Here is what a 6th degree means in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and why this promotion matters to everyone who trains with us.
What a 6th Degree Black Belt Means in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Earning a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu already takes many years. Each degree after that marks years more of training, teaching and service to the art. The 6th degree is the highest degree on the black belt itself; the next step is the red and black coral belt.
A promotion at this level reflects:
- Decades of dedication to Brazilian jiu-jitsu
- Leadership inside the academy and the wider BJJ community
- Years of developing students and future instructors
- A deep understanding of technique and the philosophy behind it
Promotions at this level are rare and highly respected in the jiu-jitsu world.
Honoring Prof. Andre Terencio
Andre co-founded Brazil 021 with Hannette Staack. The name comes from 021, the area code of Rio de Janeiro, and the team now has schools in Brazil, the US and Canada. Andre has also served as an IBJJF head referee for 15 years and an FJJRio referee for five, and he is head referee for Gracie Barra Compnet Illinois and PRIDE BJJ.
His impact shows in the students he has trained, the academy culture he has built and the knowledge he keeps sharing on the mat. Andre Terencio’s 6th degree black belt honors his own journey and the students and families who have trained under him. Read more on Prof. Andre Terencio’s instructor profile.
The Same Day: A Red and Black Belt Seminar
April 26 was a full day at the academy. Red and black belt Carlos Henrique also taught a one-day seminar at Brazil 021 Arlington Heights. Our Carlos Henrique seminar recap explains what it covered.
Why Promotions Like This Matter
Jiu-jitsu is built on tradition, respect and long-term commitment. A high-level promotion is about more than technical skill. It reflects a lifelong journey.
For students, seeing a promotion like this shows what consistent training can lead to. For families, it is a window into the discipline and structure behind the classes their kids take every week.
Train With Andre’s Team in Arlington Heights
Andre leads a team of black belt instructors who teach kids and adults at every level. Meet them on our instructors page, train with the team in All Levels & Advanced jiu-jitsu, or book a free trial class and step on the mat with the Brazil 021 Arlington Heights team.
