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AMBJJ - Alex Martins Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Alex Martins Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (AMBJJ) in Dallas, Texas is led by Professor Alex Martins, a 5th Degree Black Belt with over 20 years of experience in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Professor Martins began his martial arts journey in 1997 at age 17, training under Junior Cardoso in Manaus, Brazil, and has since become a global reference in the BJJ community. Professor Martins is an elite competitor with an impressive competitive resume, including IBJJF Master World Champion in 2016 and Ranked #1 in the World in the IBJJF Master 2 Division during the 2017/2018 season. He was personally awarded by Professor Carlos Gracie Jr. for his outstanding competitive achievements. His competition success spans across the United States, Japan, Spain, UAE, Brazil, and Europe, with multiple gold medals at prestigious events including American Nationals, Pan Ams, and numerous IBJJF Opens. The academy's teaching philosophy extends beyond techniques, focusing on shaping lives through discipline, confidence, respect, and personal development. Professor Martins brings enthusiasm, patience, and structure to every class, helping students reach their potential both on and off the mats. As he says, "If a person has the best possible attitude and respective behavior, he/she can better the world."

American Combat Gym

American Combat Gym is South Florida's premier MMA training facility located in Deerfield Beach. With over 26 years of combined experience, the gym offers world-class martial arts instruction for all skill levels, especially beginners. The gym specializes in making newcomers feel welcome, comfortable, and confident from day one in a supportive, ego-free environment. The gym offers comprehensive training programs in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (both Gi and No-Gi), Mixed Martial Arts, Muay Thai, and Boxing. Their Combat Kids program provides BJJ, boxing, and MMA fundamentals in a fun, safe environment for children ages 5-14. All programs are designed to accommodate complete beginners while also providing elite-level training for competitive fighters. Head coach and owner Charles "Chainsaw" McCarthy is a UFC veteran and former cast member of The Ultimate Fighter Season 4, holding a 4th degree BJJ black belt. Charles brings over two decades of elite combat sports experience and has hand-selected and personally trains each coach on staff to ensure every student receives world-class instruction. The gym has trained hundreds of members and maintains a 5-star rating from its community.

American Elite Grappling (AEG)

American Elite Grappling (AEG) is the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program based at the legendary American Kickboxing Academy (AKA) in San Jose, California. Founded in 1985 by world champion kickboxer Javier Mendez, AKA has been the premier Mixed Martial Arts gym in the Bay Area for over three decades and is widely recognized as one of the best MMA gyms in the world, having trained numerous UFC champions. AEG was created by Ron Keslar, who serves as head instructor of American Elite Grappling and as an AKA coach. Ron is a 2nd degree black belt under Leandro Vieira and began his grappling career in grade school with wrestling. He previously competed as a professional MMA fighter in Bellator, Strikeforce, and King of the Cage before transitioning to coaching. American Elite Grappling offers one of the most well-rounded Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and grappling programs in the United States, with over 20 gi and no-gi classes offered weekly for kids and adults, focusing on technique, fundamentals, and competition training. While AKA is known for champion-level fighters, at its core it is a family-friendly gym that caters to everyone from beginners age 4 to 65+, to those aspiring to train and compete at any level. The gym offers professional instruction in kickboxing, boxing, Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, wrestling, and MMA. AKA has been voted Best of Silicon Valley since 1985 and continues to focus on quality instruction and teaching solid technique across all martial arts disciplines.

American Top Team D'iberville

American Top Team D'Iberville is part of the world-renowned American Top Team organization, one of the premier mixed martial arts training centers in the world. Located at 10380 Automall Parkway in D'Iberville, Mississippi, the gym offers a comprehensive range of martial arts programs including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai Kickboxing, Fitness Kickboxing, Wrestling, Judo, and Kids Martial Arts. The facility provides world-class training in a supportive, family-friendly environment where students of all ages and skill levels can achieve their goals. At American Top Team D'Iberville, the training philosophy centers on empowering students to reach their full potential, whether they dream of competing in the cage, getting fit, building confidence, or finding a supportive community. The high-energy classes combine technical martial arts instruction with fitness training, helping students build strength, discipline, and mental toughness. The gym emphasizes a positive, welcoming atmosphere where students feel comfortable and safe while learning effective techniques. The gym is led by Professor Mike Sanford, a BJJ black belt who received his black belt in 2014 under Daniel and Diego Moraes. Professor Sanford has over 20 years of martial arts experience, starting with Boxing and Kempo Karate at age 5, and has been training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu since 2005 under Master Francisco Mansor (a red belt under Helio Gracie). The coaching staff also includes Professor Ann Sanford, Mississippi's first female BJJ black belt and an active competitor since 2007, along with experienced instructors in striking, kickboxing, and kids programs including Tyler Hill (purple belt), Brandon Davis (brown belt), Dan Triplett (black belt), Monica Medina (brown belt), and legendary MMA fighter Alan Belcher.

American Top Team Gulfport

American Top Team Gulfport is an official affiliate of American Top Team, one of the most successful mixed martial arts training organizations in the world. Founded by Alan Belcher, a former UFC middleweight contender and Mississippi native, the gym brings world-class MMA training to the Gulf Coast. Located in the Gulf Coast Elite building in Gulfport, Mississippi, ATT Gulfport provides comprehensive training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai kickboxing, mixed martial arts, and fitness kickboxing for both adults and children. The gym is led by head coach Michael Sanford, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt who received his black belt on January 11, 2014 under Daniel and Diego Moraes. Professor Sanford has been training martial arts since age 5, starting with boxing and Kempo Karate before discovering his passion for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at 18. After training under Master Francisco Mansor (a red belt under the legendary Helio Gracie) and later under Daniel Moraes, he was personally recruited by Alan Belcher to serve as head instructor at ATT Gulfport. The coaching team also includes Will Cruthirds (Jiu-Jitsu, striking, and kickboxing coach), Professor Ann Elida Sanford (women's Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instructor), and Vincent Flores (kids martial arts instructor). American Top Team Gulfport focuses on providing high-quality martial arts instruction in a family-friendly environment. The gym offers specialized programs for different age groups and skill levels, including Little Ninjas for children ages 4-7, Junior MMA for kids 8 and up, adult Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (both gi and no-gi), Muay Thai kickboxing, and fitness kickboxing classes. With a strong emphasis on technique, discipline, and personal development, ATT Gulfport serves as a premier destination for martial arts training on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

American Top Team Ottawa

Mixed Martial Arts & Fitness Academy (MMAFA) has been proudly serving the Kanata community since 2001, transforming lives through martial arts education and coaching. As a 2024 award-winning facility (Best Martial Arts School, Best in Youth Sport and Recreation, and Top Pick), MMAFA provides a safe, comfortable, and welcoming atmosphere where individuals of all ages can achieve their personal goals. The academy specializes in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai, offering comprehensive programs for preschoolers (ages 4-6), kids (ages 7-12), teens, and adults. Their mission is simple: help the community get safer and stronger—inside and out. Through martial arts training, students develop not just physical skills, but also confidence, focus, discipline, and respect. The academy strongly believes that martial arts can be for everyone, regardless of age, gender, or experience level. Led by owner and head coach Stephane D'Amour, along with a dedicated team of 18 instructors and coaches including Assistant Head Coach Andrew Hart, the academy has built an amazing community of hard-working, kind, and focused members. Special programs include Girls & Women's Jiu-Jitsu classes, creating an inclusive environment for all. MMAFA serves Kanata, Sittsville Area, DunRobin, Carp, Arnprior, and Kinburn communities, offering life-changing classes that students describe as "addicting" with "fantastic group of coaches and students that work hard, respect each other, and have tons of fun."

American Top Team Wellington

American Top Team Wellington is home to world-renowned coach Emyr "Shark" Bussade, a 5th degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt with over 30 years of experience. As one of the most prestigious training facilities in South Florida, ATT Wellington has earned its reputation as "The Number One Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu School" through consistent excellence in instruction and athlete development. The gym is part of the legendary American Top Team network, bringing championship-level training to the Wellington community. Coach Shark Bussade is the developer of multiple world champions, including Michael Musumeci and Tammi Musumeci, widely recognized as the best American Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu players in history. His expertise and proven coaching methodology have produced numerous championship-level athletes who compete at the highest levels of the sport. The gym offers comprehensive programs in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for both kids and adults, submission grappling, mixed martial arts, and self-defense. At American Top Team Wellington, the philosophy centers on producing champions both on and off the mats through structured and disciplined classes designed for all skill levels. The facility offers specialized programs including kids BJJ, fundamentals classes for beginners, all-levels training, competition preparation, and advanced techniques. With morning, afternoon, and evening classes throughout the week, ATT Wellington provides flexible scheduling to accommodate students of all ages and experience levels in their martial arts journey.

AMP BJJ is a Family Training Center serving Austin, Cedar Park, and Baton Rouge, offering Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu programs for students of all ages. More than just techniques, the academy focuses on building confidence, resilience, and lifelong skills in a supportive and inclusive community. AMP BJJ's mission is to empower individuals and families through Jiu-Jitsu, emphasizing self-improvement, personal growth, and practical life skills in a structured training environment. AMP BJJ stands out for its modern Ecological Dynamics Approach, a game-based, scenario-driven training method that enhances real-world problem-solving and adaptability. Unlike traditional academies that rely on rote drilling, students engage in realistic, interactive training that accelerates skill development for both self-defense and competition. Every class integrates life skills coaching, building discipline, mental toughness, and strategic thinking. The academy operates on a structured 12-week curriculum with in-house tournaments on the 13th week to test progress, ensuring well-rounded development. The academy operates multiple locations with programs for preschoolers (ages 3-5), kids (ages 6-13), teens, adults, and unique offerings like parents training with kids and ladies-only classes. AMP BJJ upholds five core values: Community (a welcoming space for families), Growth (continuous learning and improvement), Respect (integrity and sportsmanship), Family (training together strengthens bonds), and Flexibility (no long-term contracts, 30-day cancellation policy, and membership freeze options). The experienced, passionate coaching staff provides personalized guidance to help each student succeed in their martial arts journey.

Anacoreta Jiu-Jitsu

Anacoreta Jiu-Jitsu was founded in 2006 by brothers Fabio and Luca Anacoreta, who began practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and quickly achieved significant results in national competitions, followed by numerous titles in international events. To enhance their technical expertise, they trained with various champions and masters, attending seminars in Italy and traveling to prestigious BJJ schools in Brazil and the USA. In 2010, they opened their own BJJ course as instructors, discovering that regardless of age or competitive level, this discipline helps build character and improve practitioners' quality of life. Following many competitive successes and a growing, united group of students, they established a dedicated BJJ academy in January 2018, offering multiple training sessions daily, six days a week. The Anacoreta Jiu-Jitsu academy features a spacious 100+ square meter facility with climate control, professional tatami mats, and protective wall padding, ensuring safe and comfortable training for all students. The academy's teaching methodology is organized by technical level, facilitating gradual and consistent learning for each group. The team of certified FIJLKAM instructors includes black belts Luca Anacoreta (3rd degree), Fabio Anacoreta (3rd degree), Mirko Silvestri (3rd degree), and Filippo Ares Sebastianelli (1st degree), along with brown belt Sabrina Cara and purple belts Giulia Maspero and Alessio Salis.

Anchorage Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Llc

Anchorage Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (ABJJ) is Alaska's #1 ranked BJJ team, offering world-class training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, MMA, Muay Thai, Wrestling, and HIIT. Located in Anchorage, Alaska, the academy is proud to be part of the Tinguinha BJJ Academy Team and home to the ABJJ Army Fight Team. With over 158 years of combined coaching experience and more than 316 combined wins in BJJ and MMA competitions, ABJJ provides top-quality instruction for practitioners of all levels. The ABJJ Army is composed of some of Alaska's most successful and widely recognized mixed martial arts competitors. Team members pride themselves on professionalism both in and out of the cage, maintaining a hard-working training culture that has resulted in over 300 fights with a 70% win record. The academy's 8,279 square feet of grappling mats provides ample space for training across all programs. ABJJ's coaching staff includes head instructor Mason "Ryder" Spadafore (3rd Degree Black Belt), who began his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey in 2003 and brings exceptional attention to detail and problem-solving skills. Ryder is a 3rd Place finisher at the 2013 Pan American Games (Middle Weight Black Belt Senior 1) and 2nd Place finisher at the 2016 Pan American Games (Middle Weight Black Belt Master 3). He is also Safe Sport Certified and holds instructor certifications in EFC (Effective Fitness Combatives) and APSC (Alaska Police Standards Council) for law enforcement control tactics. Additional black belt instructors include Todd Palmer (3rd Degree), Daniel Delaney, Dannesh Bastani, Jason Delozier (1st Degree), and Nani Palmer (1st Degree), along with MMA specialists Matt Stout and Derek Chalifour, wrestling coach Mark Burkart, and Muay Thai instructor Shane Hall (Brown Belt BJJ).

Angura is a welcoming mixed martial arts (MMA) and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy located in Hirakata, Osaka, Japan. Founded and led by head instructor Nakamura Kimihiko, a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, the gym emphasizes a friendly, home-like atmosphere where students can "enjoy training together." The academy offers a comprehensive range of training programs including fundamental BJJ classes, beginner-friendly courses, advanced BJJ sessions, wrestling and submissions classes, striking classes, and fitness-oriented diet courses. Angura welcomes students of all ages and experience levels, from complete beginners to those aspiring to compete professionally. Many members start training in their 40s and 50s, and the gym actively encourages families and women to participate. Head instructor Nakamura Kimihiko brings extensive combat sports experience, having competed in baseball during his youth before transitioning to boxing at age 19, winning the West Japan Rookie of the Year title at 25. At 27, he retired from boxing to pursue professional MMA, competing in Pancrase and DEEP promotions. Jiu-jitsu instructor Kuroki Iwao (brown belt) leads the BJJ classes, focusing on fundamental movements and gradual skill progression while maintaining an "Enjoy Jiu-Jitsu!!" philosophy. The gym is conveniently located just a 1-minute walk from Kōzenji Station on the Keihan Railway.

Anthracite Combat Club was founded in 1993 by Jeff Walcott in Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania. The club's origins trace back to when Jeff began studying under a top Gracie Jiu-Jitsu instructor in Philadelphia. After receiving a solid foundation in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Jeff brought his training home to Schuylkill County, starting with small groups of close friends and gradually expanding into a formal academy. The club offers high-quality Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instruction certified by both the IBJJF and JJGF. Training emphasizes a systematic progression of techniques combined with proper repetitions and conditioning. The academy has built a strong competition pedigree, with team members consistently placing in the top three positions at tournaments. In 2004, the team expanded into mixed martial arts competition, achieving notable success in the cage. Today, Anthracite Combat Club serves over 60 members with programs for ages 5 through adult, including specialized classes for kids, teens, and women's self-defense. Head instructor Jeff Walcott holds a 1st degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and brings decades of experience since beginning his training in 1993. He is joined by Matt Melusky, a 2nd degree black belt in BJJ and brown belt in Judo. The academy is also supported by co-owner Lisa Walcott and club manager Kristin Polston. The team continues to travel and train with top-level instructors to bring the latest techniques and approaches back to their students in Schuylkill Haven.

AOJ Costa Mesa

Art of Jiu Jitsu (AOJ) Costa Mesa opened its doors in 2012 and was founded by world champion brothers Rafael and Guilherme Mendes together with RVCA founder PM Tenore. Since its inception, AOJ Costa Mesa has set the standard for how a Jiu Jitsu academy should operate and feel. Recognized both locally and around the world, it's known not only for its success in the sport, but also for transforming lives and helping people reach their personal best. AOJ Academy's mission is to maximize each student's potential through Jiu Jitsu as a mechanism for personal development. The academy method consists of three interconnected components: Martial Arts Philosophy, Technical Study, and Application & Competition. This comprehensive approach creates an environment where world champions come together, propelling students to break boundaries and pursue relentless improvement. The academy is led by world-renowned instructors including Rafael Mendes (6x World Champion, 2x ADCC Champion, IBJJF and ADCC Hall of Fame inductee), Gui Mendes (4x World Champion, IBJJF Hall of Fame member and Head Professor), Tainan Dalpra (3x Black Belt World Champion), Jessa Khan (World Champion at multiple belts including black belt), Cole Abate (youngest ever ADCC Trials winner at 16), and Pablo Lavaselli (2x World Pro Champion). AOJ Academy members have unlimited access to both the Costa Mesa and Mission Viejo locations.

AOJ Mission Viejo

Art of Jiu Jitsu (AOJ) Academy is one of the world's most recognized Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training centers, founded in July 2012 as a collaborative effort between the legendary Mendes Brothers (Rafael & Guilherme) and RVCA founder PM Tenore. AOJ has set the standard for how a Jiu Jitsu academy should operate, known both locally and around the world for its success in competition and for transforming lives through the art of Jiu Jitsu. The Mission Viejo location features two large mat areas, premium locker rooms for both men and women, more than 100 parking spots, an indoor cafe with guest lounge, and a private outdoor patio. The academy is conveniently located near the 73 and 405 freeways in the heart of South Orange County. Members have unlimited access to both the Mission Viejo and Costa Mesa locations, providing flexibility and world-class training at two state-of-the-art facilities. AOJ Academy classes are led by world-renowned instructors including Rafael Mendes (6x World Champion, 2x ADCC Champion, IBJJF & ADCC Hall of Fame), Gui Mendes (4x World Champion, IBJJF Hall of Fame, Head Professor), Tainan Dalpra (3x World Champion), Jessa Khan (World Champion), Cole Abate (multiple-time World Champion, youngest ADCC Trials winner), Zach Kaina (2024 NoGi World Champion), and Pablo Lavaselli (2x World Pro Champion). The academy's method consists of three interconnected components: Martial Arts Philosophy, Technical Study, and Application & Competition, creating an environment where world champions come together to maximize each student's potential.

Established in 2008, Apex Martial Arts has grown to become one of the most successful martial arts academies in the Metro Vancouver area. Located in Richmond, BC, Apex is easily accessible from Vancouver, Ladner, and Delta. The academy has built a reputation for excellence, with over 80% of new members joining through word-of-mouth recommendations, demonstrating the quality of instruction and positive training environment. Apex Martial Arts specializes in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Kickboxing programs for both adults and children. The academy offers Kids Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (Eaglets and Jr. Eagles programs for ages 5-14), Adult Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (Fundamentals, Intermediate, and Advanced classes), and Adult Kickboxing. The training philosophy emphasizes continuous improvement, quality coaching, and creating a friendly, positive environment. Apex rejects the "survival of the fittest" mentality and has suitable training programs for everyone, whether training for self-defense, fitness, sport competition, or MMA preparation. The academy is led by head instructor Dave Wu, who brings extensive competition experience including gold medals at the 2015 Pan Jiu-Jitsu Championship and 2013 Roots BJJ Challenge. The experienced coaching team includes Milo Hilario (with over 25 years of martial arts experience and multiple Pan Championship medals), Marcy Hilario (20+ years of Kickboxing and 15+ years of BJJ), Max Nguyễn (2013 Pan Jiu-Jitsu gold medalist), Derek Fung, Colin Anderson, Jeremy Brand, Sarah Sakurai, Chris Ang, Nathaniel Bovey, Ken Su, Brett Ing, and Alex Nguyễn. The instructors provide quality coaching with a focus on helping students reach their personal goals in a safe, clean, and welcoming environment.

API - Ascension Athletics

Ascension Athletics MMA & BJJ is a martial arts school in Bristol, Connecticut, offering comprehensive training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, MMA, and striking arts. Founded in 2016 by Jeff Haddad, the academy has become a fundamental part of the Bristol community through its uplifting environment and commitment to student success. The school welcomes everyone from beginner hobbyists to competitive martial artists, providing programs for all ages starting from 5 years old. The academy's philosophy centers on supporting students in achieving their dreams through promoting healthy habits in competition and life. Ascension offers a unique scholarship program funded by local businesses to ensure martial arts training is accessible to families in need. The supportive atmosphere is built on respect, inclusivity, and perseverance, where students of all skill levels train together in an anti-ego environment focused on personal growth. Head instructor and owner Jeff Haddad brings exceptional credentials to the academy. A former pediatric and occupational therapist, his background gives him unique expertise in working with various learning styles and physical abilities. As a 1st degree BJJ black belt, 2-time IBJJF World Champion (Purple M1 and Black M2), #1 IBJJF World Ranked M2 Black Belt (2023), and undefeated 5-0 professional MMA fighter (Reality Fighting Bantamweight Champion), Jeff combines world-class competition experience with compassionate instruction. The academy is supported by a skilled team of instructors including Jack Stapleton, Casey Norton, Rob Cole, Glenn Pierce, James Comerford, Kat Torres, Rob Grillo, and Dan Wilcox.

Apollo Beach Jiu-Jitsu

Gracie Apollo Beach is a family-oriented martial arts academy founded in February 2018 by Professor Luis Mata and Professor Erin Harpe, both Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belts under Rob Kahn and Matt Arroyo. The academy is dedicated to helping individuals of all ages achieve their personal goals through self-defense training, discipline, and confidence-building programs. Professor Luis Mata brings over 13 years of jiu-jitsu experience and 6 years of MMA experience to the academy. He began training in 2007 at age 16 and competed in prestigious tournaments including the IBJJF World Championship, IBJJF New York Open, and Abu Dhabi Professional Jiu-Jitsu Trials. As a professional submission grappler, Luis coached the 2018 Kids International champions. Professor Erin Harpe is a two-time IBJJF World Champion (2014 blue belt, 2015 purple belt) and professional MMA fighter signed with Invicta Fighting Championship. She started training at age 5 under her father, Royce Gracie black belt James Harpe, and moved to Tampa in 2013 to train with the Gracie Tampa Network. The academy offers specialized programs for all experience levels, including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for kids, teens, and adults, striking classes (kickboxing and Muay Thai), women's self-defense, HIIT training, and youth programs. The training philosophy emphasizes practical self-defense, physical fitness, and building confidence in a supportive, family-friendly environment. Gracie Apollo Beach serves Ruskin, Apollo Beach, Tampa, and surrounding communities in Florida.

Apostle Jiu-Jitsu Academy

Apostle Jiu-Jitsu Academy is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu school located in Sierra Vista, Arizona, offering comprehensive training programs for children, teens, and adults. Founded by Professor Francis Blesa, the academy provides a welcoming environment for students of all skill levels to learn the gentle art of BJJ. Professor Francis Blesa, the owner and head instructor, holds a 3rd degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and brings over 40 years of martial arts experience. He also founded El Apostol Jiu-Jitsu and MMA Academy in Mexico. With a distinguished 30+ year background in security and as an International Firearms Instructor, Professor Blesa has trained military personnel, police officers, and tactical teams across more than 20 countries. His BJJ journey began in 1986, and he has trained and competed internationally in countries including Brazil, Argentina, Spain, Italy, Japan, China, and throughout Latin America. Throughout his career, he has shared the mat with BJJ legends including Rickson Gracie, Royce Gracie, Renzo Gracie, Roger Gracie, Carlos Machado, Jean Jacques Machado, and many other world-renowned practitioners. The academy is supported by a dedicated coaching team including Professor Abi Hernandez (black belt), Coach Josie (blue belt, 2 stripes), and Coach Rey (blue belt, 1 stripe). Apostle Jiu-Jitsu Academy offers both gi and no-gi training, with specialized programs for different age groups including Little Samurai (kids), Teen Samurai, and adult classes. The academy also offers a scholarship program to provide tuition assistance for children who need financial support, demonstrating their commitment to making Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu accessible to the local community.

Archdale Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Triad Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a welcoming martial arts academy in Archdale, North Carolina, dedicated to transforming lives through the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Founded and led by Jeff Farlow, who has over 15 years of experience in martial arts, TBJJ offers a safe, clean, and ego-free environment where students of all ages can thrive. Jeff's passion for martial arts was ignited by watching Kung Fu Theater and Bruce Lee's electrifying performances, and he has competed and triumphed in numerous tournaments. His true passion, however, lies in teaching, and his experience instructing all ages gives him a dynamic teaching style that connects with every student. At Triad Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, the focus is on helping people grow and building well-rounded character through martial arts training. The academy offers programs for students starting at age 4, teaching self-confidence, self-discipline, and real self-defense skills. The gym's instructors include Jeff Farlow (Partner/Instructor), Scotty Dennis, John Clark, Dawn Clark, Brian Miller, Nate Rose, Tony Pacholski, David Barnhill, and Mike Harris, creating a supportive team environment. TBJJ's success stories speak volumes - members have experienced significant weight loss, increased confidence, learned to stand up to bullies, and formed lifelong friendships. The gym offers three main programs: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (both Gi and No-Gi), Kids Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for ages 4 and up, and Muay Thai ("Art of Eight Limbs") which pairs perfectly with jiu-jitsu training. Whether you're looking to master grappling and ground fighting techniques, help your child develop character skills, or learn striking arts, Triad Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu provides a second home for martial arts enthusiasts in the Triad area.

Area 502 Mixed Martial Arts

Area 502 MMA is Louisville's premier mixed martial arts training facility, proudly serving as the city's only Official Carlson Gracie Jiu-Jitsu academy. This state-of-the-art 12,500 square foot facility features a full-size boxing ring, over 2,500 square feet of matted training area, and a 3,000 square foot private gym, providing an exceptional training environment for martial artists of all levels. Led by head coach Phillip Perkins, a 2nd degree black belt under the legendary Carlson Gracie Jr., Area 502 carries on the proud Carlson Gracie legacy in Louisville. Coach Perkins has taught and trained around the world, including spending over two months in Brazil training and teaching seminars. The academy offers comprehensive programs in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (both gi and no-gi), Boxing, Muay Thai Kickboxing, Wrestling, and MMA for men, women, and children of all ages and skill levels - from complete beginners to advanced competitors. The coaching team at Area 502 brings world-class expertise and proven results. Notable instructors include Aaron Sheckles, a 5-time Golden Gloves Champion with 23 years of boxing experience who has trained 7 Golden Gloves Champions, 6 Junior Olympic Champions, and 3 Ringside World Champions. Blake O'Neil, known as "Coach O Cinco," is a purple belt under Coach Perkins with a 7-1 MMA record and experience training UFC fighters at the UFC Performance Institute in Las Vegas. The team also includes multiple Carlson Gracie Jr. black belts: Alex Hacker (former wrestling coach and Thai boxing practitioner), Joshua Dominguez (MMA veteran), and Roger Skillman (specialist in gi chokes). Ruben Vargas, a brown belt with world and national championships in sport karate and an OEF Army veteran, rounds out the exceptional coaching staff. Whether your goal is fitness, self-defense, competition, or personal development, Area 502 provides expert instruction in a welcoming, beginner-friendly environment.