Downriver Jiu Jitsu’s Lineage:

Helio Gracie ⇒ Royler Gracie ⇒  Saulo & Xande Ribeiro

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BRENT INSCO, HIGHEST RANK BLACK BELT in the Downriver area

Professor Brent Insco is the first and highest-ranking Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt in the Downriver area. On June 21, 2022, he was honored to receive his third-degree black belt, a milestone recognizing over two decades of dedication to the art. Throughout his career, Professor Brent has earned numerous medals in regional competitions; including but not limited to medals recently won the 2025 IBJJF Chicago Spring International Open, 2024 IBJJF Virginia International Open and a bronze medal at the 2012 IBJJF Master World Championships.

Having trained under legendary world champions Saulo Ribeiro and Xande Ribeiro during their time in the Midwest, Brent was personally awarded his black belt by Saulo Ribeiro. This lineage connects Downriver Jiu-Jitsu directly to the founders of modern Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: the Gracie family. Saulo and Xande received their black belts from Royler Gracie, son of Helio Gracie, one of the originators of the art. As such, Downriver Jiu-Jitsu stands only a few generations removed from Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu’s original source, preserving the technical precision and philosophy passed down through the Gracie lineage.

When he can find time to escape from his six-day-a-week teaching schedule, Professor Brent not only competes regularly in IBJJF tournaments, but has also produced world-class medalists in 13 of his 15 years in business since 2010—a testament to his commitment to both personal growth and his students’ success.

Before beginning his Jiu-Jitsu journey, Brent earned a black belt in NAAMA (North American Alliance of Martial Arts) Karate and taught karate for nine years. He also holds a degree in Elementary Education from Eastern Michigan University, combining his martial and academic backgrounds to create an engaging and structured approach to teaching.

Outside of Jiu-Jitsu, Professor Brent is a dedicated strength and conditioning coach at Insco Strength Training, the adjoining facility to Downriver Jiu-Jitsu. He is a Certified Functional Strength Coach, a Training for Warriors (TFW) Level 1 & 2 instructor, an IKFF (International Kettlebell and Fitness Federation) Kettlebell Instructor, and a NSPA (National Sports Performance Association) Certified Program Design Specialist.

Committed to continual growth, Professor Brent continues to travel both locally and internationally to train with teammates and association members, refining his skills and sharing his passion for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with the next generation of practitioners.