Rio Combat Team
About
Rio Combat Team offers comprehensive martial arts training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and Judo, creating a well-rounded experience for practitioners of all levels. The gym is led by Head Instructor and Founder Diogo Gomes, a 4th degree BJJ Black Belt, and features a diverse coaching staff including multiple BJJ black belts, brown belts, and specialized instructors for Muay Thai and Judo. Members benefit from practical, approachable instruction that blends technique, strategy, and real-world application across all disciplines, with additional programs for children, teens, and law enforcement personnel.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members describe Rio Combat Team as a welcoming, family-like environment where practitioners of all levels feel supported and challenged. They consistently praise Head Instructor Diogo Gomes for creating an inclusive atmosphere and providing practical, high-quality instruction that blends technique with real-world application. Reviewers highlight transformative physical results, strong camaraderie that leads to lasting friendships, and clean, well-maintained facilities. Specific mentions include appreciation for the no-pressure approach with free trial classes, the diverse coaching staff's expertise, and special experiences like international training trips to Rio de Janeiro.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
Peter Ngu
a year ago
Been training here for 7+ years and love it! The Instructors are very experience to train all belt levels. If you're thinking about trying it out for the first time, i would encourage you to stop thinking and just come do a free trial class. All are welcomed! Check out the schedule!
Wence Cajucom
4 months ago
If you’re looking for a gym that feels like home, Rio Combat Team (RCT) is the place to be. I’ve been a part of this incredible BJJ family for over 10 years, and it’s been an amazing experience. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or just starting out, RCT is a place where you’ll feel welcome, challenged, and supported, no matter where you are on your Jiujitsu journey. What truly sets RCT apart is the environment that has been carefully cultivated by Diogo, owner and head instructor, a seasoned black belt with decades of experience. Not only does he have a deep understanding of Brazilian Jiujitsu, but also teach it in a way that’s both practical and approachable. Classes offer a blend of technique, strategy, and real-world application, all delivered with patience and precision. Over the years, I’ve watched this gym evolve into a tight-knit family where everyone, from white belts to black belts, supports one another. The culture is welcoming, friendly, and inclusive. You’ll never feel like an outsider. The sense of camaraderie here is awesome, and it’s not just about getting better on the mats; there's opportunity to pick up long lasting friendships as you grow into the sport. In addition to Brazilian Jiujitsu, RCT offers classes in Muay Thai and Judo, giving members a well-rounded experience and the chance to explore other martial arts. There are BJJ and muay thai programs for children and teens as well. They also offer specialized law enforcement training, tailored to the unique needs of officers who want to improve their control and defensive tactics in real-world situations. RCT isn’t just a gym in Alameda, it’s homebase to a network of associated gyms that spans across Oakland and even into a few states outside California. This expansion speaks volumes about the quality of training and the positive impact RCT has had on the broader BJJ community. Wherever you go, you’ll always feel like part of the RCT family. I can’t recommend this place enough. If you’re even a little curious about Brazilian Jiujitsu or you’re looking for a new gym to call home, give RCT a try. There’s no pressure to sign up, no “sales pitch” or hard sell, just the opportunity to see what this incredible gym has to offer. Come check it out, roll with us, and see for yourself why RCT is such a cornerstone of the Alameda BJJ community. If you’re looking to get better at BJJ, be surrounded by friendly people, and have a great time while doing it, RCT is the place to be.
Jerry Rodriguez (JerRodz)
6 months ago
I came in here thinking I knew something, left knowing that I barely know anything. At 46 years old on my birthday I decided to join Rio Combat Team, and it was one of the best things I could have done for myself. I lost 20 pounds and got close to the best shape of my life, competed for the first time since college and made great friendships along the way. Starting from the top down coach Diogo sets the standard and creates a great family environment that is chill to be around. All the coaches and affiliates have something great to offer, my experience there has been nothing short of exceptional. Did I mention we went to Rio de Janeiro for a summer training excursion? RTC for life! OSS.
Ryan Beck Turner
a year ago
I've been training BJJ here for just over a year. I was completely new to the sport when I joined and I'm super grateful that my first gym is such a good one. Students are welcoming and helpful. Instruction is high quality. Facilities are clean and well maintained.
Scott Griswold
a year ago
Been sending my 11 year old son here since he was 5 years old. Diego and his coaches/team are professional and always welcoming. They instilled training hard and being respectful. My son gained confidence, discipline, and knowledge with them. He continues to improve as a fighter and good human everyday. His progress is PRICELESS!!! Couldn’t have asked for a better Bjj family for him to be apart of. Diego is the real deal. You won’t regret trying.
Contact
800 W Tower Ave bldg 40, Alameda, CA 94501, USA
scheduleHours
Monday: 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM
Thursday: 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM
Friday: 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Saturday: 12:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
groupCoaches & Instructors
Diogo Gomes
Head Instructor / Founder
4th degree BJJ Black Belt
Founded Rio Combat in 2008. Started martial arts at age 8, competed extensively in Brazil. Member of Carlson Gracie Team.
Alberto Alvarez
BJJ Instructor
BJJ Black Belt
Ivan Garrido
BJJ Instructor
BJJ Brown Belt
Gaby Dillon
BJJ Instructor
BJJ Blue Belt
Ian Murray
Judo Instructor
BJJ Black Belt
Jim Nations
BJJ / No-Gi Instructor
BJJ Black Belt
Wence Cajucom
BJJ Instructor
BJJ Black Belt
Gustavo Lisama
Muay Thai Instructor
Zachary Hudelson
BJJ Instructor
BJJ Brown Belt
Austin Glushenko
BJJ Instructor
BJJ Purple Belt