Diego Saraiva Brazilian Jiu Jitsu / Nova União Atlanta

Diego Saraiva Brazilian Jiu Jitsu / Nova União Atlanta is led by Professor Diego Saraiva, a Brazilian black belt from Fortaleza with a deep competitive pedigree and more than two decades representing Team Nova União. Diego began training at age 12, earned his black belt under Guilherme Santos, and moved to the United States at 20 to teach and compete. Over his career, he has collected more than 30 IBJJF black belt medals, including podium finishes at the World Championships and Pan Ams, and is a veteran of over 40 MMA bouts in organizations such as the UFC and Bellator. The academy serves as the headquarters for Nova União in Atlanta, carrying forward the team’s global tradition of technical jiu-jitsu and family atmosphere. Classes are offered for both adults and children, with a strong emphasis on helping students develop skill, fitness, and confidence through consistent training. The teaching team includes Diego’s wife, Fernanda Saraiva, a black belt and active competitor who leads the kids’ program, and assistant instructor DJ Wegesin, who brings a background in wrestling, judo, and karate. Kids’ classes are a central part of the schedule, and instruction is designed to be accessible and challenging for all ages. Located in a newly renovated 2,500-square-foot facility in Norcross, the gym features new Zebra mats, separate changing rooms, a lounge area, and free WiFi. Open mat sessions are available to adults, and drop-in visitors are welcome. As part of the Nova União lineage, the academy maintains close ties to the broader network, providing students with access to world-class instruction and competition opportunities while fostering a supportive, family-driven training environment.

Amenities