Downriver Jiu Jitsu’s Lineage:

Helio Gracie ⇒ Royler Gracie ⇒  Saulo & Xande Ribeiro

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BRENT INSCO, HIGHEST-RANKING 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 received his third-degree black belt, marking more than two decades of dedication to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Throughout his competitive career, Professor Brent has earned numerous medals at regional and international tournaments. His accomplishments include medals at the 2025 IBJJF Chicago Spring International Open, the 2024 IBJJF Virginia International Open, and a bronze medal at the 2012 IBJJF Master World Championships.

Professor Brent trained extensively under legendary world champions Saulo Ribeiro and Xande Ribeiro during their years in the Midwest and was personally awarded his black belt by Saulo Ribeiro. This gives Downriver Jiu-Jitsu a direct and distinguished lineage through the Ribeiro brothers to Royler Gracie and Helio Gracie.

That lineage represents more than a name. It reflects the technical precision, fundamentals, and philosophy of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu that Professor Brent continues to pass on to his students today.

In addition to teaching six days a week, Professor Brent remains an active competitor and continues to test his skills at IBJJF tournaments. Since opening Downriver Jiu-Jitsu in 2010, he has also coached students of all ages and experience levels to success in competition, from local and regional events to major championship tournaments.

Before beginning his Brazilian 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 earned a degree in Elementary Education from Eastern Michigan University. His background as an educator, combined with decades of martial arts experience, allows him to bring a structured, engaging, and individualized approach to teaching both children and adults.

Outside of Jiu-Jitsu, Professor Brent is a dedicated strength and conditioning coach at Insco Strength Training, located adjacent to Downriver Jiu-Jitsu. His professional certifications include Certified Functional Strength Coach, Training for Warriors (TFW) Level 1 & 2 Instructor, IKFF Kettlebell Instructor, and NSPA Certified Program Design Specialist.

Professor Brent remains committed to his own continued development as both a practitioner and instructor. He regularly travels to train with teammates and association members, both locally and internationally, continually refining his skills and bringing that knowledge back to the students of Downriver Jiu-Jitsu.