Carlos Gracie Jr. was born in January 17, 1956 and grew up heavily influenced by his family of fighters. In close sync with the life philosophy and teachings of his father Carlos Gracie Sr., "Carlinhos" as he’s known to friends and family, grew up observing and learning from some of the most influential figures his family has ever produced: Carlos Gracie Sr., Helio Gracie and Rolls Gracie.
In 1986, Carlos Gracie Jr. founded the first Gracie Barra school, in the city of Barra da Tijuca, Rio de Janeiro. From that one location, he created the most expansive BJJ organization in the world, with offices in the USA, Brazil, Australia and Europe. Gracie Barra now operates over 600 schools around the globe.