João Paulo Neto (also sometimes referenced as Joao Goncalves) is a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt under Mário Reis and Moacir Mendes Júnior, as well as a former representative of the Alliance Academy in this sport's international competitive circuit, later changing his allegiance to the Atos shield. Widely regarded as one of the top featherweights of his generation, Neto earned his reputation while competing in the lower belt ranks of the sport by conquering medals at the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) World, Brazilian Nationals, Pan American, and Abu Dhabi Federation (AJP / UAEJJF) Grand Slam Championships.