Victor Candal

Professor Victor Candal is a Martial Arts Grandmaster and 2nd Degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt with more than 50 years of martial arts experience. Born in Argentina in 1963, he began training in boxing at just six years old under his father, a professional boxer. By age 17 he had expanded into Pakua Kung Fu, eventually earning the rank of Grandmaster, and went on to earn black belts across Taekwondo, Hapkido, and several other disciplines.

In 1990, Victor founded Candal's Martial Arts Academy, launching an international teaching career that took him first to Brazil, where he mastered Vale Tudo and Capoeira, and later to Israel, where he spent years instructing children, adults, military personnel, and private clubs while actively practicing and developing Krav Maga. He also traveled to Holland to instruct private students before arriving in the United States in 1990.

Victor began training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 1998 and officially aligned under Master Cleber Luciano in 2003. Since establishing Candal's Martial Arts Academy in Anaheim, California, he has operated the school continuously, and today holds the rank of 2nd Degree Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Beyond Jiu-Jitsu, Victor brings deep expertise in Mixed Martial Arts and Muay Thai. He trained directly alongside legendary Chute Boxe coach Rafael Cordeiro, assisting with foundational classes when Cordeiro first arrived in the United States. Recognized for his high-level skill and versatility, Victor served as a sparring partner for Fabricio Werdum ahead of Werdum's historic victory over Fedor Emelianenko, and for Cris Cyborg during her preparation for her championship bout against Gina Carano. He has also trained alongside and helped prepare elite professional fighters including Evangelista "Cyborg" Santos and Doug Marshall.

Beyond physical technique, Victor incorporates principles of confidence, mental strength, and self-development heavily influenced by Tony Robbins. He specializes in nutrition, Tai Chi, and holistic health, drawing on advanced knowledge of functional human anatomy and natural healing. A true global practitioner, Victor speaks three languages fluently, with functional mastery across six languages in total.