Life & Work with Mestre Tito Santos of Alpharetta & Downtown Decatur

Today we’d like to introduce you to Mestre Tito Santos.

Mestre Tito, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I started my journey in capoeira when I was just 3 years old, training capoeira with my father, Mestre Jangada, and my siblings Alex, Jessica, and Alan in São Paulo, Brazil. From a young age, capoeira wasn’t just a practice; it was a way of life, deeply rooted in my family and culture.

I always paid close attention to the wisdom of the elder capoeira instructors, especially legends like Mestre Joel, Mestre Hélio, Mestre Chita, and Mestre Santana Macaco. Their teachings helped shape not only my technique but also my respect for the art and its traditions.

My father, Mestre Jangada, has always been my example and greatest influence. Since I was a child, he encouraged me every step of the way. Even as I began training in other martial arts like MMA and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, he remained my biggest motivation and continues to inspire me to this day.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. One of the biggest struggles I faced was a serious accident where I suffered third-degree burns on my legs. The doctors told me I would never be able to practice capoeira again. I spent a year in the ER, going through multiple surgeries and facing the intense physical and emotional pain of recovery.

But that didn’t stop me.

My father, Mestre Jangada, raised me as a true warrior. His strength and belief in me pushed me through the hardeast times. Learning how to walk again, dealing with pain every day, and overcoming all the challenges only motivated me more. I was determined to return to capoeira and to come back even stronger.

That experience didn’t break me; it shaped me. It reminded me why I started and showed me what it really means to fight for your passion.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m a world-renowned Capoeira Mestre with over 30 years of experience, and I specialize in teaching authentic capoeira that blends movement, culture, music, and tradition. My classes go beyond just physical training, I also teach capoeira instruments, music, and drumming, preserving the rich cultural roots of the art.

In addition to capoeira, I’m also an MMA champion and instructor. I teach MMA classes in Atlanta, where I bring a unique fusion of discipline, technique, and heart to every session. What sets my teaching apart is the depth of experience I offer decades of training, real-life application, and a passion for passing on knowledge the right way. What I’m most proud of is staying true to my roots while inspiring students from all walks of life. Whether it’s through capoeira or MMA, I aim to build strong, confident individuals.

We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
Something that often surprises people who know me for my martial arts is that I’m also a great capoeira singer. Most people see me as the fighter, the instructor, the athlete but they don’t expect the musical side. When they hear me sing during a roda or lead traditional capoeira songs, it always catches them off guard in the best way. Music is a powerful part of capoeira, and for me, it’s just as important as the movements.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.trycapoeira.com
• Instagram: titosantosoficia_
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@titosantoscapoeirajangada6054