Professor Monique is a black belt born and raised in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Her Jiu Jitsu training began in 2015 under the teachings of master Leandro “Tatu” Escobar and Professor Rodrigo Lopes. Within a few months she started her journey in the competitive scene, winning the state championship as a white belt. As a blue belt, she earned 2nd place in the IBJJF World No-Gi championship in California and double gold at the IBJJF Rio Open. In 2019, she moved to Texas with her family so she could dedicate herself fully to Jiu Jitsu. As a purple belt, her outstanding titles are gold at the IBJJF World Master Championship and American National Championship. At brown belt, Monique was a Pan-American champion, American Nationals Champion and once again World Masters medalist. In September 2022, she received her black belt from her husband and professor Rodrigo Lopes, Leandro ‘Tatu’ Escobar and Rafael ‘Formiga’ Barbosa. Today her goals are to continue competing to fulfill personal goals and inspire women to challenge themselves and grow in this sport.

Main Titles –

IBJJF WORLD CHAMPION
2 X IBJJF AMERICAN NATIONAL CHAMPION
PAN AMERICAN CHAMPION
2X IBJJF WORLDS NO GI MEDALIST
MULTI IBJJF OPEN CHAMPION AND MEDALIST