Born in 1981, Claudio Mattos was inspired by his older brother’s path and started Jiu-Jitsu training at the age of 16. It wasn’t long until he earned the ‘Caloca’ title among his friend group because of his resemblance to a cartoon character. That evolved into his nickname ‘Caloquinha’, which means ‘Little Caloca’. He stepped into MMA and Jiu-Jitsu fights, and once even fought Gilbert Burns at the World Pro event in 2010.

Burns defeated Mattos via leglock. There was just a two-point difference. But Mattos’ ultimate calling was coaching, and following that path made him one of the most revered jiu-jitsu coaches in the world. Unfortunately, he died on Christmas Day at the age of 44.

Announcing the news on Instagram, BJJ Fanatics wrote: “It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Cláudio “Caloquinha”, a respected athlete, professor, and lifelong contributor to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Minas Gerais and across Brazil.

“Caloquinha dedicated his life to the mats, impacting countless students, teammates, and friends through his passion for Jiu-Jitsu and the values it represents. His legacy will live on through everyone he inspired. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, students, and the entire Jiu-Jitsu community during this difficult time.”

He was a black belt under Vinicius “Draculino” Magalhães.

In the days prior to his death, Mattos was hospitalized at Hospital Vila da Serra in Belo Horizonte while undergoing treatment for lung cancer, as reported by BJJ DOC.

Details about his illness are not available.

A highly respected black belt, Caloquinha competed primarily in the lightweight division. Having trained under revered jiu-jitsu trainer Vinicius Magalhaes, he earned a silver medal in the 2010 World Pro Jiu-Jitsu Cup Championship in the UAE. He submitted every opponent en route to the final before falling to Burns. 

That same year, he won the Brazilian Trials for the World Pro and dominated the SP Cup with multiple submission victories. Caloquinha was also a CBJJ Brazilian National Champion and a South American Championship gold medalist. His resume included medals at several IBJJF Opens. 

Following the announcement of his passing, fans and practitioners flooded the comment section of BJJ Fanatics’ post, sharing condolences and memories.

Prayers pour in for Caloquinha and his family

One user shared his condolences for Caloquinha’s family. “My condolences to all family, students, and friends! Oss,” the user commented. 

The next user had similar thoughts. “Sending love and strength to his family, students, and the entire BJJ community during this time,” the user commented. Caloquinha started his mentorship journey as a purple belt and has since led several students. 

Meanwhile, a former student recalled being trained by the 44-year-old. “May you rest in peace! My first BJJ teacher in Marbella 20 years ago❤️”.

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Mattos began training others as an assistant trainer to Master Magalhaes, a position he held until his last day. His BJJ lineage is: Mitsuyo Maeda > Carlos Gracie Sr. > Helio Gracie > Carlos Gracie Junior > Vinicius Magalhaes > Claudio Mattos.

Someone else had a special message for Caloquinha. “🥋🙏🏽 roll in heaven, Prof,” the user commented. Mattos earned his own black belt in 2005 when it was awarded to him by Vinicius Magalhaes.

Another user claimed Mattos’ legacy would continue to live on. “Rest in Peace, Master Claudio Caloquinha! Your style, love, and contribution to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu will live forever! ❤️🙏🏼🥋,” the user wrote. He was the head instructor at Rio Sport Center in Belo Horizonte. Naturally, his work would continue to live on through his students.

The BJJ world is clearly devastated by the death of the sport’s greatest legends. While he might not be around the gym anymore, people continue to remember him with fond memories.