HALO Jiu Jitsu kicked open its doors in 2010 right here in Fresno, California — built on one mission: create a world-class Jiu-Jitsu academy that hits hard on skill, heart, and family. No egos, no excuses — just good people putting in real work.
Not long after, HALO teamed up with the legendary Tinguinha lineage under Maurício “Tinguinha” Mariano — a name every serious grappler knows. That partnership leveled up our game with a structured, modern system built on slick fundamentals, sharp technique, and movement that keeps you two steps ahead.
From day one, HALO wasn’t just a place to train — it was (and still is) a family. Kids, parents, cops, beginners, seasoned beasts — everyone’s got a spot on these mats. We train together, push together, and get better together.
Over the years, HALO’s grown far beyond Fresno — with affiliate academies popping up across the map (and even across borders), all carrying the same DNA: discipline, teamwork, and precision.
And yeah — we compete. Hard. HALO athletes throw down and win on every major stage: IBJJF, SJJIF Worlds, Jiu-Jitsu World League, and even Fight 2 Win. Wherever the competition is, you’ll find the HALO banner flying high.
But even with the medals and trophies stacking up, we’ve never lost sight of who we are — a crew built on respect, loyalty, humility, and unity. Whether you’re here to learn self-defense, get in the best shape of your life, or chase gold on the world stage, HALO is where that journey starts.
Today, HALO Jiu Jitsu keeps building champions, strengthening our community, and spreading the art worldwide. Because around here, it’s not just about learning Jiu-Jitsu — it’s about living it.
Every black belt starts as a white belt who didn’t quit — and that’s exactly how Halo’s story begins.
Angel “Halo” Lopez is a highly respected name in the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, known for both his competitive achievements and his role as a mentor and instructor. Beginning his grappling journey in October 2009, Professor Halo quickly embraced the art and devoted himself to mastering its techniques. In 2016 he earned his black belt under Professors Luis “Speedy” Gonzalez and Maurício “Tinguinha” Mariano, marking a significant milestone in his development as a coach and competitor.nbHe is officially registered as a black belt with the International Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) and serves as an official R1ng Professor. In recognition of his experience and dedication and contributions to the sport, as of 2025 he earned the rank of 3rd-degree black belt.
Beyond his credentials, Lopez is known for his dual identity as competitor and coach. He has competed in more than 130 tournaments (including 60+ as a black belt), fought professionally on the stage of Fight 2 Win, travelled internationally to teach seminars, and built a coaching team. At his academy, he nurtures students of all ages and experience levels—from children and beginners seeking self-defense to serious athletes and law enforcement with the same energy, respect, and attention. Professor Halo emphasizes that jiu-jitsu is not just a sport, but a pathway to personal growth, discipline, and community.
Angel “Halo” Lopez’s legacy is defined by transformation of both his own career and that of the hundreds of students he has guided and by a commitment to excellence on and off the mats.
