6th Degree Black belt under Rickson Gracie. He began training in 1976 with the legendary Rolls Gracie. He received his purple belt under Rolls and then trained with Carlos Gracie for a period. He has been under Rickson Gracie since 1982 and received his brown and black belt from Rickson. Luiz Palhares received his black belt in 1984. He has won the Rio de Janeiro championships several times.

2000, 2003, 2004 Pan American Champion super heavy weight senior division and open.

2002, 2003 3rd place in Masters and Seniors International.

1998 Brazilian National Champion in heavy weight senior division and open.

After moving from Rio de Janeiro (Gracie Academy), Luiz has been teaching law enforcement and women self-defense (anti-rape) classes and BJJ seminars in America, Canada and Europe (Paris, London and Belfast). He is currently a resident of Florida and teaches classes for civilians, the military and Special Forces (Seals, Green Berets, Rangers).