Meet Muchacho Recupero:
From Ecuador to Jiu-Jitsu Excellence
Growing Up in Ecuador: Heavy Metal, Surfing, and Street Smarts
Picture Ecuador in the 80s and 90s a mix of vibrant chaos and endless adventure. For Muchacho Recupero, life was all about heavy metal, punk rock, soccer games, surfing waves, skateboarding through the streets, and, of course, getting into trouble. “It was amazing,” he recalls. “Me and my friends were always out doing something, pushing limits.”
This lively, sometimes chaotic environment taught him something invaluable: etiquette. “Growing up in that kind of environment really helps you understand the meaning of respect,” he explains, a principle he’s carried into his life and Jiu-Jitsu.
The UFC Connection: How a Friend’s Obsession Sparked Curiosity
Muchacho’s introduction to Jiu-Jitsu didn’t happen on the mats; it started with a VHS tape. Back then, bringing UFC tapes to Ecuador was no small feat. One of his friends, nicknamed El Burro (The Donkey), a professional surfer and street fighter, a diehard fan, managed to return from the U.S. with UFC 3. “We would watch those fights the way surfers and skaters watched videos of their heroes,” Muchacho says. The fights showcased a world where technique triumphed over brute strength, planting the seed of curiosity for what would later become a lifelong passion.
Yet, even after hearing about Jiu-Jitsu from another high school friend, Juan Miguel Iturralde, who called it “floor fighting,” Muchacho stuck to boxing. “I dismissed it at first,” he admits. What we didn’t know at the time was that Juan Miguel would go on to become practically the Ecuadorian Gracie, a figure who would become synonymous with Jiu-Jitsu in Ecuador, almost like a trademark of the sport in the country. Little did Muchacho know, Jiu-Jitsu was waiting for him just around the corner.
From Pre-Med to Palm Harbor: Finding His Path
Before Jiu-Jitsu took over his life, Muchacho was a pre-med student. But as he puts it, “Medical school y vali verga (translation: medical school absolutely wrecked me).” When his daughter Dani was on the way, he made the decision to stay in the United States, seeking better opportunities for his family and himself.
In 2004, everything changed at a WingHouse in Palm Harbor, Florida. Watching BJ Penn choke out Matt Hughes ignited something in him. That same night, he approached MMA fighter Matias Gentili, asking to learn Jiu-Jitsu. “He started teaching me at home,” Muchacho says. A year later, he joined David Vieira’s gym in Pinellas Park, marking the start of his formal Jiu-Jitsu training.
Guided by Legends: David Vieira and Rodrigo Greno
Training under David Vieira and Rodrigo “Perna” Greno shaped Muchacho’s Jiu-Jitsu in profound ways. “I did my first half of training with David and the other half with Perna,” he explains. Both professors were well over six feet tall and physically strong, so Muchacho had to adapt by developing a style that emphasized technique and strategy over sheer force. While his professors undoubtedly taught him valuable lessons, Muchacho had to take it to an even greater level to overcome the challenges of size and strength. Their distinct styles gave him a well-rounded foundation that continues to influence his teaching today.
“Progression is inevitable,” Muchacho says. While he’s built his own unique style over the years, the lessons from his mentors remain at the core of everything he teaches. “It’s about always striving to do better.”
Building a Community: The Birth of Safety Harbor Jiu Jitsu
Eight years ago, Muchacho took a leap and opened Safety Harbor Jiu Jitsu in the heart of Main Street in Safety Harbor, Florida. His vision was clear: to create a space where people could find a positive outlet, stay active, and tap into their warrior spirit.
The academy quickly became a haven for students of all levels. “It’s not just about training,” Muchacho says. “It’s about building a community where people grow, both on and off the mats. Here, we drink coffee, often heading to our favorite spot, Cafe Vino Tinto, a Costa Rican coffee shop on Main Street. We sit outside where everyone knows each other, share stories, and kick back while talking Jiu-Jitsu and building relationships that connect us to greater things. If we’re not up for coffee, we go for sandwiches right down the road at Irvin’s Gas Station. Now, gas station food might not sound great, but trust me if you ever come to Safety Harbor, go to the Mobil on Main Street and tell Irvin I sent you. You’ll get amazing food at a great price. And on Thursday nights, the crew often heads to Main Street to have seltzers to hang out. I don’t always make it, but it’s awesome knowing we have a tight-knit group that spends time together outside of training.”
Heart Over Brawling: The Philosophy Behind the Training
At Safety Harbor Jiu Jitsu, Muchacho emphasizes technique and discipline over brute force. “Brawling has its place in Jiu-Jitsu, but it shouldn’t be in the driver’s seat,” he says. Instead, he focuses on what he calls “controlled chaos,” where every move has intention and nobody gets hurt.
“We’re a school, not just a fight room,” he explains. Beyond competition success, his ultimate goal is to help students develop longevity and discipline qualities that translate to every aspect of life. Known for his ability to handle bigger, stronger opponents with ease, Muchacho has made a name for himself by showcasing how technique and strategy can overcome sheer physicality. His students benefit not only from his knowledge but also his love for his students and dedication as, “If you’re an enthusiast working 50-60 hours a week with other responsibilities, being in an uncontrolled environment is not an option,” Muchacho says. “I don’t have tolerance for that.”
The Nickname That Stuck: How “Muchacho” Was Born
Muchacho’s nickname has a story of its own. Given to him by his professor David Vieira, the name started as a joke. “At first, I hated it,” he laughs. But over time, it stuck. Now, it’s hard to imagine him being called anything else. “Everyone knows me as Muchacho now, and I’ve learned to embrace it.”
Joining BJJ Camp XP: From Student to Mentor
Muchacho’s connection to BJJ Camp XP runs deep. Having participated in a camp himself, he immediately recognized its unique mix of high-level training, adventure, and culture.
“I’ve been teaching since I was a purple belt, and I’ve always taken teaching seriously,” he says. For him, being an instructor is more than just passing on knowledge; it’s about constantly studying and evolving. At BJJ Camp XP, participants can expect more than just classes. “You’ll get seminars and workshops that are fun, focused, and challenging,” he promises.bjj
Why Camps Like XP Matter
Camps like BJJ Camp XP are transforming the Jiu-Jitsu world by bringing the sport to new communities. “XP is already exposing small communities in Colombia to our sport,” Muchacho says. This grassroots impact is what fuels the growth and evolution of Jiu-Jitsu globally.
Train with Muchacho at BJJ Camp XP
We’re thrilled to have Muchacho as one of the pros teaching at our next BJJ Camp XP in Lago Calima, Colombia, from March 25th to 30th. Click here to learn more! His journey from Ecuador to the U.S., from student to instructor, is a testament to his dedication and passion. Don’t miss the chance to learn from him and experience everything that BJJ Camp XP has to offer.