About Us

ContraMastre Negao

Contra Mastre Negao’s journey from Salvador, Bahia, to the United States is a testament to the global reach and cultural exchange fostered by capoeira. His roots in the original style of capoeira, honed from a young age, bring authenticity and depth to his teachings. With over a decade of experience teaching in the U.S., Contra Mastre Negao has impacted countless individuals, sharing not only the physical techniques but also the cultural richness embedded within capoeira.

In Contra Mastre Negao’s class, students embark on a transformative journey, pushing the boundaries of their physical and mental capabilities. Through dynamic movements like kicks, flips, and take-downs, students discover newfound agility and strength, mastering techniques unique to the art of capoeira. Beyond combat skills, they learn the importance of evasion, resilience, and controlled response to adversity—valuable lessons applicable beyond the roda.

Lifes Changed

Meet the Team

Mestre Corcora

Alexandro Pereira, known in Capoeira as Mestre Corcoran, began training in 1987 under Mestre Lázaro in Salvador. Over the years, he progressed from Formado (1996) to Mestre (2007). In 2001, he founded Educapoeira, later renamed Capoeira Guerreiros, with Educapoeira continuing as the children’s project. A Physical Education graduate from UCSal and UFBA specialist, he has represented Bahia internationally with Bahiatursa, became the 2012 Brazilian and Bahian Capoeira champion, and currently serves as Sports Director of the Capoeira Federation of Bahia (FCBa).

Mestra Sapeca

ContraMestre Negao

Contra Mastre Negao’s journey from Salvador, Bahia, to the U.S. reflects capoeira’s global reach and cultural depth. Trained from a young age in the original style, he brings authenticity and over a decade of teaching experience. His classes build agility, strength, and resilience through dynamic movements while teaching control, evasion, and mental focus—skills that extend beyond the roda.

Professor Mosquito

Benjamin Rodriguez AKA Mosquito He was born and raised in New Brunswick, NJ. In 2005, he started training capoeira with Nacao Capoeira. In 2017, Mosquito earned the rank of Formado. In 2024, he joined Capoeira Guerreiros and in 2025 graduated to Professor. He has taught, performed, and competed in break dance, salsa on2, and capoeira.

Professor Pinoquio

Diego Silva Mota, known as Pinóquio, is a capoeira teacher with over a decade of experience dedicated to capoeira, education, and the promotion of Afro-Brazilian culture. Since 2009, he has worked in schools, educational centers, and community projects, bringing capoeira, maculelê, puxada de rede, and other cultural expressions to children, youth, and adults. He has been part of the Guerreiros group since 2002, but his first contact with capoeira was in 2000 with Professor Cozido of the Alegria do Mestre Canjiquinha group.

Professor Vado

Capoeira Guerreiros, Salvador Bahia Originating from the Educapoeira project, disciple of Mestre Corcorã since 2005.

Professor Pankeka

Hello, my name is Vandilson Paixão, known in the Capoeira community as Pankeka. I started training in 2004 under Mestre Corcorã in Salvador. In 2017, I earned my Physical Education degree from UNISBA and became a Formado of Grupo Guerreiro. I teach Capoeira, aquatic activities, and functional training, and lead the Educapoeira social project. In 2022, I was honored as Athlete of the Year by the Capoeira Federation of Bahia.

Formado Manhoso

Originating from and Descendant of the EDUCAPOEIRA Group. Disciple of Mestre Corcorã since 2002. Cpoeira Guerreiros Group Salvador, Bahia, Brazil 🇧🇷

Formado Neném

My name is André, known in capoeira as Formado Neném. I am a member of the Capoeira Guerreiros group from Salvador, Bahia, and a disciple of Mestre Corcorã, with whom I’ve had the honor of walking this path for over 20 years.

Formado Mancha

My name is Valter Pereira, known in the capoeira world as Formado Mancha. I am a student of Physical Education – Licentiate Degree. I began my journey in the Educapoeira Project (Guerreiros) in 2003.

Formado Juraci

Juraci Santos, known as Formado Juraci, started practicing capoeira in 2006 with Contramestre Negão.

Formado Alex

Alexson: I started capoeira in 2006 through ContraMestre Negão and have been practicing this art for 20 years. Now I am a certified capoeira instructor from the Guerreiros Group.

Music and Movement

Integral to the capoeira experience is the blending of rhythm and motion. Contra Mastre Negao guides students to connect deeply with the music—singing traditional songs and mastering instruments.

A Holistic Art

Capoeira is more than a martial art; it’s a holistic practice engaging body, mind, and spirit. Through this art form, students develop not only physical agility but also emotional expression and mental focus.

Growth and Connection

In Contra Mastre Negao’s class, students experience discovery, challenge, and cultural immersion. This journey fosters resilience, creativity, and strong community bonds that transcend the studio walls.