Last week, history was made at the Europe Expo in Orlando, Florida. The event marked the first-ever Athlas Training Team Reunion, where some of the biggest names in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) came together to celebrate the growth and success of the martial arts community.
At the center of this historic moment was Master Junior Fernandes, head instructor and owner of Athlas Training Team in Fort Lauderdale. Fernandes, alongside his wife, proudly represented American Top Team in Fort Lauderdale for years. However, since 2023, American Top Team Fort Lauderdale has transformed into Athlas Training Team — a rebranding that reflects a new vision and mission focused on martial arts training for the whole family.
From American Top Team to Athlas – A New Chapter Begins
For years, American Top Team was known as one of the most respected names in mixed martial arts (MMA) worldwide, producing world champions and elite fighters across various combat sports. Under the leadership of Master Junior Fernandes, the Fort Lauderdale branch became a cornerstone of the American Top Team legacy, attracting hundreds of students and building a reputation for excellence.
But in 2023, a significant shift occurred. Junior Fernandes and his team decided to evolve the gym’s focus, creating a training environment more aligned with the values of family, personal growth, and community. Thus, Athlas Training Team was born — a martial arts academy designed not only to develop elite fighters but also to provide a welcoming and supportive environment for families, kids, and adults of all ages.
The transformation into Athlas Training Team a new era of Martial Arts in Fort Lauderdale marked a shift from a purely competitive focus to a more balanced approach that values personal development, discipline, and fitness for all members. Today, Athlas Training Team is a thriving community with over 500 active students and a state-of-the-art facility in the heart of Fort Lauderdale.
A Ceremony to Remember
The recognition of Athlas’ growth and success was highlighted during the first Athlas Training Team Reunion at the Europe Expo in Orlando. During the event, Professor Antonio Ricardo Liborio — co-founder of American Top Team and one of the most influential figures in BJJ — presented Master Junior Fernandes with a prestigious trophy, recognizing the incredible achievements of Athlas in Fort Lauderdale.
Receiving the trophy from his master was a defining moment for Junior Fernandes. It symbolized not only the growth of Athlas but also the successful evolution from American Top Team into a new chapter focused on building strong, confident individuals through martial arts.
The reunion also featured some of the biggest names in the BJJ and MMA world, including:
- Master Ricardo Liborio – Co-founder of American Top Team and a pioneer in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
- Rodolfo Vieira – BJJ world champion and UFC fighter.
- Gezary Matuda – A multiple-time IBJJF World Champion and one of the top female athletes in BJJ.
- Mike Brown – Former WEC Featherweight Champion and one of the most successful coaches in MMA.
- Roger Kraal – High-level BJJ competitor and coach.
Throughout the weekend, attendees participated in high-level seminars, training sessions, and strategy workshops led by these icons of the sport. The event celebrated the legacy of American Top Team while embracing the future of Athlas Training Team.
A State-of-the-Art Facility and Comprehensive Programs
Since the transition to Athlas in 2023, the academy has not only grown in student numbers but also expanded its training space and equipment. The facility now features:
✅ Professional-grade mats for grappling and striking
✅ Strength and conditioning area equipped with weights and functional training equipment
✅ Striking zone with heavy bags, speed bags, and pads
✅ Cage training area for MMA practice
✅ Separate space for kids’ classes to create a focused learning environment
Under Master Junior Fernandes’ guidance, Athlas Training Team now offers a variety of specialized programs for all skill levels and age groups.
🥋 Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ)
Athlas offers one of the most complete BJJ programs in Fort Lauderdale. The classes are structured for both beginners and advanced students, focusing on improving technique, building strength, and sharpening mental focus. Students learn takedowns, submissions, and positional control in a safe and supportive environment.
🥊 Muay Thai
Muay Thai at Athlas teaches the art of striking using fists, elbows, knees, and shins. The program focuses on both offensive and defensive techniques, helping students develop power, accuracy, and timing in their strikes.
🏋️ Xtreme Training
Xtreme Training is designed for those looking to push their physical limits. It combines elements of MMA, functional strength training, and high-intensity cardio to build endurance, strength, and overall fitness.
🥊 Boxing
Boxing at Athlas focuses on developing strong punching skills, footwork, and defensive techniques. Classes are structured to improve speed, coordination, and power, while also providing an excellent full-body workout.
🥷 Mixed Martial Arts (MMA)
Athlas’ MMA program combines elements of BJJ, Muay Thai, wrestling, and boxing into a cohesive fighting strategy. Students learn how to transition between striking and grappling, preparing them for competition or self-defense.
👊 Kids’ Martial Arts
Athlas also offers a dedicated kids’ program that includes BJJ and Muay Thai. The kids’ classes focus on building confidence, discipline, and self-defense skills in a fun and supportive environment.
A Family-Centered Approach to Martial Arts
What sets Athlas apart from its roots at American Top Team is the emphasis on creating a family-friendly training environment. While the competitive spirit and high-level instruction remain intact, the focus has expanded to include personal growth, self-confidence, and physical fitness for individuals and families alike.
Parents and children often train together at Athlas, creating a unique sense of connection and shared growth. The supportive community fosters friendships and encourages students to push themselves, not just in martial arts but in all aspects of life.
The Future of Athlas
Receiving the trophy from Master Ricardo Liborio marked a pivotal moment for Athlas Training Team. It symbolizes not only the academy’s impressive growth but also its successful transformation from a competitive MMA-focused gym into a family-friendly martial arts community.
Today, Athlas Training Team stands as a beacon of excellence in Fort Lauderdale, offering top-tier martial arts instruction in a welcoming and supportive environment. Whether you’re looking to compete, improve your fitness, or simply gain confidence and discipline, Athlas is the place for you
