Browse BJJ Gyms

Axis UK

Axis BJJ is a high-level Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy located in Milton, Cambridge, offering world-class instruction in both gi and no-gi grappling. The gym is affiliated with Axis Jiu Jitsu Tokyo, Japan, maintaining strong connections to traditional BJJ lineage through the Rickson Gracie system. The academy prides itself on maintaining exceptional standards of technique, ability, and attention to detail. The training philosophy emphasizes developing skilful, legitimate jiu-jitsu practitioners through consistent mat time and resilience. Axis offers the best-value tuition in the Cambridge area with an extensive schedule that provides more classes per week than competing gyms at affordable prices. Head instructor Phil Yeomans brings approximately 20 years of BJJ experience, having been a black belt for about 13 of those years. Phil spent many years living in Japan, training under his instructor Takamasa Watanabe, a Rickson Gracie black belt, at the Axis Jiu Jitsu headquarters in Tokyo. Phil has an extensive competition record including multiple gold medals at the Rickson Gracie Cup (2008-2011), All Japan Championships, Japan Open, and international tournaments. His achievements include bronze medals at the 2009 European Jiu Jitsu Championship and 2009 Abu Dhabi Pro Asian Trials. Axis BJJ is an inclusive and diverse gym where everyone is welcome. The academy maintains a zero-tolerance policy for "gym bullies" and fosters an environment where members help each other succeed. Beginners are paired with responsible training partners and welcomed into a friendly, supportive atmosphere. The gym offers programs for kids (ages 6+) and adults of all skill levels, from complete beginners to advanced practitioners.

B-Clan Jiu-Jitsu

Centro de Lutas Bruno de Paula is a licensed Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai academy operating in Vitória, Espírito Santo since 2009. The academy represents the prestigious Renzo Gracie Jiu-Jitsu franchise in Brazil and is affiliated with B-Clan Jiu-Jitsu, registered with CBJJ (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Confederation) and IBJJF (International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation). For Muay Thai, the academy is affiliated with Inside Muay Thai team and registered with CBMT-BT (Brazilian Confederation of Muay Thai and Thai Boxing). The facility is fully licensed by the Municipality of Vitória and offers a comfortable structure for students, parents, and companions, including a waiting room with cable TV and Wi-Fi. The academy's certified instructors use a modular teaching methodology for students from children to adults of both genders. The academy prides itself on using systematic training modules tailored to different age groups and skill levels. Located conveniently with easy parking access on Avenida César Helal in the Bento Ferreira neighborhood, the academy provides a quality fitness alternative for those avoiding peak-hour traffic on major avenues. The academy offers special packages for families and groups of friends, emphasizing its mission to continuously evolve and improve the quality of training provided to the community.

Back To Back Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

BACK TO BACK Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is located in Chiba New Town Central, Inzai City, Chiba Prefecture. Founded by head instructor Masashi Uehara, who discovered Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at age 26 after moving from Hyogo Prefecture to Tokyo for work. Having previously been dedicated to breakdancing in his student days, he found a new passion in BJJ that enriched his life as a working professional. The gym name "BACK TO BACK" carries dual meaning - both the English phrase meaning "consecutive" (representing the continuous flow of techniques in BJJ) and the "back" position which is crucial for victory in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The gym operates at two locations: the main Kusafuka Dojo (at Rental Space YOHEI) and the Chiba New Town Central Station Dojo (at Gold's Gym Studio B). BACK TO BACK aims to be a "third community" beyond work and family - a place where people can find connection and immerse themselves in the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The gym emphasizes BJJ as a "thinking martial art" that develops not just physical strength but also concentration, strategy, and problem-solving skills. With a focus on safety (no striking), it's accessible to adults of all ages and fitness levels who may have struggled with maintaining traditional workout routines. Head instructor Masashi Uehara holds a brown belt and brings impressive competitive credentials including winning the SJJJF 3rd All-Japan Championship (Adult White Belt Rooster division), placing second at JBJJF 17th All-Japan Masters Championship (Master 1 Blue Belt Light Feather division), and winning the Asian Jiu-Jitsu IBJJF Championship 2024 (Master 1 Purple Belt Light Feather division). The gym offers programs for all ages including Pre-Kids (ages 3-5), Kids (elementary to junior high), and Basic classes (high school and above), with a welcoming environment that includes female staff members to ensure comfort for all students.

Backbone BJJ

Backbone BJJ is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and kickboxing academy located in Corona, California, led by head instructor Ryan Hester, a BJJ black belt with over a decade of experience. Ryan is also a Doctor of Physical Therapy and Functional Range Conditioning mobility specialist, bringing a unique understanding of body mechanics and injury prevention to his teaching. The gym focuses on building a culture, community, and family atmosphere where students of all ages and skill levels can train together. Backbone BJJ offers comprehensive programs including adult BJJ (both gi and no-gi), kids BJJ, wrestling, and kickboxing classes. The academy emphasizes practical technique development, physical conditioning, and creating a supportive training environment. Ryan's background in physical therapy allows him to teach BJJ with special attention to proper movement patterns and injury prevention. Sara Hester, a purple belt and certified yoga instructor (E-RYT Yoga Alliance) with an M.Ed., also contributes to the academy's holistic approach to training. The gym offers a free trial class for new students and welcomes practitioners of all experience levels.

Bad Dog BJJ

BAD DOG BJJ is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy based in Ayia Napa, Cyprus, operating since 2017 (formerly known as NICKBJJ). The gym moved to its new location in late 2025 and is affiliated with Marcelo Alonso BJJ and the Carlson Gracie Team lineage. With multiple affiliated locations across Cyprus, Greece, and the USA, BAD DOG BJJ focuses on authentic Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training for all levels. The academy is led by Professor Nick Unander, a 4th Degree Black Belt with over 27 years of martial arts experience. Nick received his black belt from Master Marcelo Alonso in 2008 and has since produced gold medalists in both IBJJF and ADCC competitions across Europe. The coaching team includes Coach Theo Charalambous (Brown Belt), MMA Coach George, and Coach Nickie Ruddy (Purple Belt), who specializes in women's classes. BAD DOG BJJ offers comprehensive programs including Adults BJJ (Gi and No-Gi), Kids classes (Little Pups ages 3-5, Junior Pups ages 5-12, Alpha Pack ages 10-14), Women's Only sessions, Competitor Training, and Open Mat sessions. The academy welcomes all affiliations and visitors to train on their mats, maintaining a strong community atmosphere while upholding high technical standards under the Carlson Gracie Team lineage.

Badger Style BJJ

Badger Style BJJ, also known as Toledo Jiu Jitsu Center, is the national headquarters of Badger Style BJJ and has been serving the Toledo, Ohio community for over 25 years. The academy specializes in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training for all ages and skill levels, from beginners through advanced practitioners. With a 4,000 square foot state-of-the-art facility that includes 1,750 square feet of mat space, the gym provides a safe, clean, and welcoming environment for traditional martial arts training. The programs are designed by IBJJF certified 4th degree BJJ Black Belt and former ISJJA World Champion Chris Blanke, who leads a team of highly experienced instructors including Mark Lowe and Randy Patterson. All classes are taught by BJJ Black Belts, ensuring world-class instruction. The academy has produced an impressive 40+ World Titles and currently has over 25 Brown and Black Belts training regularly. Students train alongside world champions in a family-like atmosphere that emphasizes brotherhood, camaraderie, and sportsmanship. Badger Style BJJ offers comprehensive programs for kids (ages 4 and up) focused on bullyproof training, self-defense, discipline, and fun games, as well as adult programs covering both Gi and No-Gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The facility features cardio equipment, two drinking fountains, WiFi, two bathrooms, two personal showers, and male and female locker rooms. The academy provides affordable pricing with no contracts, family discounts, military and first responder discounts, and a free trial week for new students.

Bahia Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy

Tundra Jiu-Jitsu (formerly known as Bahia Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy) is a professional BJJ academy in Espoo, Finland, offering expert coaching in an inspiring and welcoming environment. The gym provides Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training every day with multiple classes available for all skill levels, schedules, and age groups. Head coach Francisco Bahia leads training sessions with an authentic Brazilian approach, bringing passion and expertise to every class. Francisco began training jiu-jitsu in 2009 at age 16 and received his black belt in Brazil in 2019. He lives jiu-jitsu professionally - teaching group classes, private lessons, seminars, and competing. His mission is to help others discover what he has found in jiu-jitsu. The coaching team also includes Milla Bahia, who received her black belt in 2019 and is a Masters World Champion, three-time European Champion, and one of the first women in Finland to achieve a black belt. She trains annually in Brazil and competes actively. Sakari Miettinen, who earned his black belt in 2023, has been involved in martial arts since 1992 and brings extensive experience and enthusiasm to his teaching. Tundra Jiu-Jitsu offers comprehensive programs including fundamentals classes, advanced training, no-gi grappling, competition preparation, women's-only classes, and children's BJJ for ages 7-13. The academy provides a clean, organized, and safe training environment where everyone can feel part of the jiu-jitsu family.

BAMBJJ

Base Martial Arts USA is a premier martial arts training facility in Coconut Creek, Florida, offering comprehensive Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai programs for both adults and children. The academy provides a holistic approach to physical fitness and personal development in a welcoming and supportive environment. Led by Master Luis Santos "Sapo", a 5-degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt with over 18 years of professional mixed martial arts experience, Base Martial Arts delivers world-class instruction. Sapo is also a black belt in both Muay Thai and Judo, and has competed in organizations including WEC, XFC, and ONE FC, with over 81 professional victories. He currently trains at American Top Team in Coconut Creek and brings his elite combat sports experience to every class. The academy's Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu programs teach the art of ground fighting and leverage, empowering students with effective self-defense techniques while promoting discipline and mental focus. Training emphasizes fundamental principles and practical application, enhancing confidence and situational awareness for practitioners of all skill levels. The facility also offers specialized programs including Baby Jiu-Jitsu for children ages 2-3, youth programs for various age groups, competition team training, and women's self-defense classes.

Barnet Combat Academy

Barnet Combat Academy is a well-established martial arts gym in North London, founded in 2012 and proudly sponsored by FightShop Direct. With over 140 five-star Google reviews and a rating of 4.9 stars, BCA has built a reputation for technical excellence and a welcoming family atmosphere. The gym offers comprehensive training in Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (both Gi and No-Gi), MMA, Boxing, and Strength & Conditioning programs for juniors, adults, and beginners through to seasoned fighters. The gym's philosophy centers on two key principles: exceptional attention to technical detail in beginner classes, and maintaining a fun, friendly atmosphere where training is both serious and enjoyable. BCA boasts a fully equipped, refurbished facility containing a boxing ring, punch bags, kettlebells, and a complete array of training equipment. The club operates with a flexible, competitive pricing structure with no fixed terms, tie-ins, or hidden fees - members can attend any class in any discipline and can stop, start, pause, or switch payment methods whenever they wish. The coaching team is led by Head Coach Shahab "Shabba" Uddin, who brings over two decades of Muay Thai experience and has trained extensively in Thailand at renowned camps including WMC Samui and Bang Tao Phuket. The BJJ program is headed by Black Belt Ricardo "Ricky" Cidra, a British NoGi champion and active competitor who holds multiple medals in Gi competition. Additional instructors include MMA coaches Elias "Juice Boy" Abreu and Andrew "Manchild" Herrmann (both active fighters), Darren "Daz" Jones (founder of Force MMA with over a decade of coaching experience), Muay Thai coaches Lee "Right Hand" Wrighton and Eric "Backstreet" Goudie, and Strength & Conditioning specialist Tanya "Killer" Kailides (BSc Honours in Human Biology from Loughborough, professional S&C coach and weightlifting competitor). All kids class instructors hold Enhanced DBS certificates, ensuring a safe training environment for young students.

Barradas Brothers BJJ

The Fight Lab by Lee Bros is Fort Wayne's premiere fight and fitness gym, offering Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Boxing, and Muay Thai Kickboxing. The gym welcomes everyone from absolute beginners to competitive athletes, with a mission to help members grow stronger, healthier, and more capable in body, mind, and soul. Located just north of Glenbrook Mall, The Fight Lab features a custom-built training facility with two distinct training areas: the Black Mat for boxing, kickboxing, and strength conditioning, and the White Mat dedicated to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. The gym is affiliated with Professor Maykon Barradas and emphasizes systematic curriculum that makes martial arts accessible to everyone. Head Professor Mike Lee received his black belt from Professor Maykon Barradas in January 2022 after 17 years of training. His passion is breaking down Jiu Jitsu into systematic curriculum so anyone can learn and grow in the sport. The gym offers programs for adults and kids, women's only classes, competition training, and private lessons. The Fight Lab also runs LBX, a popular 1x1 nutrition and accountability transformation program that has helped thousands of people achieve their fitness goals since 2019.

Barum Jiu-Jitsu San Diego

Barum Jiu-Jitsu San Diego is a family-run Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy located in the Morena area of San Diego. Founded by the Barum family, the gym has built a reputation for treating students like family, with reviews consistently praising the welcoming, patient, and caring environment created by the instructors. The academy offers flexible training schedules with classes throughout the day, including early morning sessions, midday classes, and evening training. They provide a comprehensive program structure with classes for kids (ages 6-9), juniors (10+), and adults, as well as specialized Women's Only classes on Tuesday evenings and Saturday mornings. The gym teaches both gi and no-gi jiu-jitsu, with dedicated no-gi classes on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday mornings. Open mat sessions are available on Friday evenings and throughout the weekend. The Barum family leads instruction at the academy, with multiple instructors including Alfredo Barum, Victoria Barum, Gustavo Zarichta, Neco Carvalho, and Graziela Barum. Students consistently describe the teaching style as patient and welcoming for all skill levels, from complete beginners to competitive athletes. The gym emphasizes building camaraderie and creating a fun, safe learning environment while maintaining high-quality technical instruction. With a 5.0 rating across Google, Yelp, and Facebook from over 550 reviews, Barum Jiu-Jitsu has established itself as one of San Diego's premier BJJ academies for students of all ages and skill levels.

Base Camp Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Base Camp Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a dedicated BJJ academy located in Mt. Shasta, California, offering comprehensive martial arts training for both children and adults. The gym focuses on building confidence and character through the practice of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, a martial art and combat sport that emphasizes grappling and ground-fighting techniques with the goal of gaining dominant positions and using joint-locks and chokeholds to force opponents to submit. The academy is led by owner and head instructor Woody Hosler, a 2nd Degree Black Belt who began his BJJ journey in 2008 under Matthias Meister at NOLA BJJ in New Orleans, Louisiana. After relocating to Dallas, Texas in 2011, Woody continued his training at Octagon MMA where he developed his passion for the "gentle art" under the guidance of Octavio Couto Jr. In October 2018, Woody was promoted to black belt by Octavio Couto Jr. and Rafael Lang. The coaching team also includes Bobby Hamill, a black belt who started training under Bruno Bastos in September 2015 in Midland, Texas, received his blue belt on the podium of the American Nationals in July 2016, and his purple belt on the podium of Master Worlds. Bobby was awarded his black belt under Tanner Rice in May 2023. Both instructors bring extensive competition experience and a deep commitment to teaching the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Base Camp BJJ offers over 20 classes per week with programs tailored to different age groups and skill levels, including Kids BJJ (ages 4-8), Young Adults (ages 9-14), and Adult programs. The academy provides a welcoming environment with a Gi Loan Library for new students, allowing them to borrow gis without pressure while they explore the art. The gym also supports the local law enforcement community by offering complimentary memberships to all active College of the Siskiyous Law Enforcement Academy cadets, demonstrating their commitment to community service and the practical applications of BJJ training.

Baza

BAZA Jiu-Jitsu is a modern training academy in North Hollywood, California, founded by 9-time World Champion Mateus Rodrigues. With a commitment to tradition and innovation, BAZA is a space for all students, from kids to adults, to build skill, resilience, and confidence in jiu-jitsu. At BAZA, the academy believes in purposeful training within a welcoming environment. Classes are designed to push students to their best, whether they're new to the art or seasoned practitioners. The academy is built on camaraderie and hard work, welcoming people of all experience levels and ages. By instilling perseverance, BJJ becomes a tool for personal improvement in all aspects of life. Learning Jiu-Jitsu can be challenging, but students learn to overcome and adapt while growing as individuals. Professor Mateus Rodrigues is a 9x World Champion, 4x Pan Ams Champion, ranked #9 Black Belt Absolute in the 2024 season and #10 Black Belt Absolute in the 2025 season. He is an outstanding teacher with a deep understanding of how to break down technique and teach it effectively. The facility is top-notch - spacious, clean, and well-designed with high-quality gym equipment, providing an ideal environment for training. BAZA offers world-class Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training with a relentless pursuit of growth, strength, and mastery.

BDKN Martial Arts

Budokan Martial Arts Academy provides an oasis of martial arts tradition and builds community health through Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts. The academy offers high-quality instruction in a safe, friendly, respectful, and clean environment, meeting the needs of students seeking discipline, fitness, self-defense, or competition training. The academy is led by Sensei Nardu Debrah, a 3rd degree black belt under the legendary Renzo Gracie. Sensei Nardu is a professional MMA competitor and former Ring of Combat champion, with extensive training in multiple martial arts including Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai, Boxing, Wrestling, Judo, and more. His lineage traces through Renzo Gracie, and he has trained under renowned instructors including Rodrigo Gracie, Matt Serra, and John Danaher. The academy offers three main programs: Little Samurais (ages 4-7), Youth Program (ages 8-14), and Adult Program (ages 15+). Each program provides comprehensive martial arts training with a focus on technique, character development, and practical application. The instruction team includes Professor Matt Culley, a 2nd degree black belt and co-owner, and Professor Akbar Muhammad, a 1st degree black belt who has been training at Budokan since 2008.

Bear's Den Grappling Center

Bear's Den Grappling Center is a veteran-owned non-profit dedicated to producing men, women, and children of character through wrestling, jiu-jitsu, sportsmanship, and hard work to be champions on and off the mat. Located in Wyandotte, Michigan, the gym is affiliated with Six Blades Jiu-Jitsu under Chris Blanke and Toledo Jiu-Jitsu. The gym is led by Head Coach Jeffrey Alan Maloney, a black belt who has been involved in wrestling since 1984 and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu since 2009. Coach Maloney received his black belt in 2019 while training within the Jiu-Jitsu for Life Association, and joined Six Blades Jiu-Jitsu in summer 2021. He is an accomplished competitor with multiple IBJJF podium finishes, including a silver medal at the 2022 IBJJF Pan Championships as a black belt. He has also been part of the Wyandotte Wrestling coaching staff since 2005. Coach Andrea, a brown belt, assists with the children's classes and has been training under Coach Maloney since 2017. She is a full-time mom and professional firefighter/EMT with numerous competition achievements, including gold medals at IBJJF Pans and World Masters. Bear's Den has proudly partnered with non-profit organizations including We Defy Foundation and Adopt a Cop BJJ to assist veterans and law enforcement in receiving quality training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Behring Last Stand

Merced MMA, established in 2007 in Merced, California, is owned and operated by 3rd degree Black Belt Professor Marcos Tomé. The academy is affiliated with the renowned Flavio Behring Jiu-Jitsu system under 9th degree Red Belt Grandmaster Flavio Behring, connecting students to the roots of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Merced MMA is a sister school to Oakdale MMA and Sonora MMA, with membership allowing training at all three locations. The academy teaches traditional Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu from the Flavio Behring system, along with Kickboxing, Muay Thai, Submission Wrestling (No-Gi), and Women's Conditioning. Professor Marcos Tomé, born in São Paulo, Brazil, holds a brown belt in Judo and serves as an Athletic Inspector for the California State Athletic Commission. In 2020, he was awarded the Hands on Hero award from the Merced County Office of Education for his work with children. His philosophy centers on the virtues of martial arts: "Jiu-Jitsu is for everyone" and emphasizes that it "does not depend on strength of the body, only the strength of the mind." The academy's instructor team includes Professor Tom Theofanopoulos (4th degree Black Belt, also a 9th degree Kajukenbo Grandmaster and 2nd degree Judo black belt who started Oakdale MMA in 1988), along with black belt instructors Chris Bucao, Chris Curtis, and Daniel De Los Santos. Additional instructors include brown belts Sergio Guerrero and Pardeep Singh, and blue belts Nick Gonzalez, Vinicius Tomé, and Gustavo Guerrero. The facility features a full-range fitness center with free weights, punching bags, pull-up stations, body weight bars, and a full-sized boxing ring available to all members.

Bel Air BJJ

For nearly a decade, Bel Air BJJ has been a place where journeys begin, legacies are built, and pasts are overcome. Located in Forest Hill, Maryland, this Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai academy is dedicated to equipping students with the tools to succeed on the mat and in life by fostering a culture of excellence, teamwork, and community. Bel Air BJJ operates under the ASM BJJ Association global umbrella and continues to benefit from Marcos Tulio's tutelage, following the Ricardo De La Riva lineage. Master Tulio is a 5th degree BJJ Black Belt and his wife, Kat, is a 2nd-degree black belt in both BJJ and Judo. They currently reside in Abu Dhabi and visit annually, sharing their deep knowledge and reinforcing the academy's commitment to excellence. The team-based coaching approach provides a variety of perspectives and expertise, ensuring students grow with the support of a village. The head instructor, Nathan Scott, is a 1st degree black belt under Master Marcos Tulio with nearly 2 decades of experience. He leads the entire Jiu-Jitsu curriculum, teaching the majority of gi and no-gi classes, leading the kids' classes, and overseeing academy operations. Mike Weber, known as 'Muay Thai Mike', leads the entire Muay Thai curriculum and has coached many fighters to a National Championship level. He is an accomplished Muay Thai fighter and WKA Referee. The academy's family-first culture ensures that from day one, students become part of a community that uplifts and supports each other, both on and off the mats.

Belleville Alcateia Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Alcateia Brazilian Jiu Jitsu ("Alcateia" means "Wolfpack" in Brazilian Portuguese) is Belleville's premiere martial arts academy, offering authentic Brazilian Jiu Jitsu instruction under the guidance of Professor Jason Chin-Leung, a 3rd Degree Black Belt with over 20 years of experience. The academy is affiliated with the Carlson Gracie lineage through Professor Omar Salvosa (World No-Gi and Pan Champion), and is the area's only International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) and Ontario Jiu Jitsu Association (OJA) certified academy. The academy emphasizes a supportive team environment where members work together collaboratively, placing a premium on camaraderie, loyalty, trust, and friendship. The training philosophy is built on wolves' unique hunting strategies using teamwork and coordination within the pack. Alcateia provides an in-depth curriculum that develops technical knowledge, physical abilities, body awareness, agility, flexibility, and problem-solving abilities, all while learning practical self-defense skills in a fun and safe environment. Professor Jason Chin-Leung began training in BJJ and MMA in 2003 and started teaching as a Blue Belt in 2004, being the very first to offer this training in the Bay of Quinte Region. He traveled annually to Brazil beginning in 2008 to train at elite academies with multiple-time world champions including Fabio Gurgel, Demian Maia, Ricardo Vieira, Andre Galvao, and Rafael and Guilherme Mendes. Jason received his Black Belt from Professor Omar Salvosa in 2013 in a ceremony led by Mestre Marcus Soares (currently a 9th degree red belt Grandmaster). In competition, he has won 13 gold, 7 silver, and 3 bronze medals, including Absolute Champion at the Ontario Open and gold in the Black Belt Heavyweight Division at the Ontario Provincial Championships. Jason is also a certified IBJJF referee and licensed professional MMA corner-man, and served 21 years in the Canadian Army as an elite paratrooper. The academy is veteran and first responder owned, proudly supporting and welcoming veterans and first responders.

Bellicose Martial Arts

Bellicose Martial Arts is a family-oriented martial arts academy in Crofton, Maryland, founded in 2010 as Bowie Mixed Martial Arts by Carlos Catania and Charles Cherry. The gym was rebranded to Bellicose Martial Arts in 2020 to reflect its move to Crofton and shift toward a more family-friendly environment. Bellicose, meaning "demonstrating aggression and willingness to fight," represents the academy's commitment to practical self-defense while maintaining a welcoming atmosphere for all ages and skill levels. The gym is affiliated with Evolution Fight Team, headed by 5th degree BJJ black belt Carlos David Oliveira. Bellicose teaches a comprehensive mix of martial arts including Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Judo, Thai Kickboxing, Wrestling, and Boxing. The training philosophy emphasizes practical self-defense techniques, fighting logic and skills, and purposeful workouts that build both body and mind. The academy offers programs for all ages, from Little Lions (ages 3-5) to adult classes, including specialized programs in BJJ, No-Gi grappling, Thai Kickboxing, Kids BJJ, Kids Bully Defense, Cardio Kickboxing, Body Blast HIIT training, and comprehensive self-defense courses. Professor Charles Cherry leads the academy as head instructor. A 3rd degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu under Carlos Catania (with approval from Sergio Penha), Professor Cherry also holds a 2nd degree black belt in Kodokan Judo, black belts in Kickboxing and Japanese Jiu Jitsu, and is a certified Krav Maga instructor. With over 40 years of martial arts experience and a background as a Division II college wrestler and U.S. Army freestyle wrestler, he brings extensive expertise. He is also a retired Federal Law Enforcement Officer with 28 years of experience, having trained agents for multiple federal agencies in defensive tactics and use of force. Professor Cherry holds master's degrees in business and applied behavior analysis, is a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst, and was inducted into the United States Martial Arts Hall of Fame class of 2024.

Ben Corpuz Jiu-Jitsu Academy

BC Kickboxing & BJJ, established by Professor Ben Corpuz, is a premier martial arts training facility serving the Waxhaw and Indian Trail communities in North Carolina. The academy offers comprehensive training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Kickboxing, and Muay Thai for all ages and skill levels. Under the guidance of Professor Corpuz, a 2nd Degree Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Roberto Traven (Coral Belt), students receive world-class instruction in a welcoming, family-oriented environment. The training philosophy at BC Kickboxing & BJJ emphasizes helping students "achieve goals well beyond their potential" through dedicated coaching and structured programming. The academy offers specialized programs for different age groups including Little Samurai for young children, Junior BJJ for youth, and comprehensive adult programs in BJJ, Kickboxing, and Muay Thai. The facility operates two locations in the greater Charlotte area, providing flexible training options with classes throughout the week including morning, evening, and weekend sessions. Professor Ben Corpuz brings exceptional credentials and experience to his instruction. He is a 2nd Degree Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu certified under Master Roberto Traven (Coral Belt), having previously trained under UFC Welterweight Champion Matt Serra and received his blue and purple belts under Professor Joe Scarola (5th degree black belt) of Gracie Barra. Professor Ben is also a Kru-certified Muay Thai Instructor under Grand Master Toddy in Bangkok, Thailand, and holds an Ajarn "Professor-Teacher" certification under Ajarn Lacosta (2x World Muay Thai Champion). His competitive achievements include 2009 AMMO Featherweight Champion, 2010 and 2012 IBJJF Pan Am Featherweight No-Gi Champion, 2012 World Champion at Grapplers Quest, 2013 NAGA Champion, and multiple tournament championships. He also holds a 3rd degree black belt in Taekwondo and a brown belt in Shotokan Karate, making him a well-rounded martial artist with deep expertise across multiple disciplines.