Browse BJJ Gyms

10th Planet New York City

10th Planet Jiu Jitsu NYC is the premier location for NoGi Jiu Jitsu in New York City, serving practitioners of all skill levels from beginner to advanced. Founded by head instructor Rey "StingReyRey" De Leon, the gym brings authentic 10th Planet System training directly from Eddie Bravo's legendary headquarters in Los Angeles. The 10th Planet System focuses on submission grappling in a NoGi environment, styled more towards Mixed Martial Arts than traditional Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, teaching a revolutionary clinching form geared for real-world self-defense and MMA competition. Rey "StingReyRey" De Leon serves as the head instructor and owner, holding a black belt awarded directly by Eddie Bravo himself. Hailing from Los Angeles, Rey boasts a lifelong journey as a versatile Mixed Martial Artist with notable appearances in prestigious pro events including Ultimate May Warriors, Rise Invitational, Fight2Win, Finishers Sub-Only, Combat Jiu Jitsu Worlds, Kasai, and international competitions at Battle Grapple. He spent countless hours training at 10th Planet HQ, famously documented on "Mastering the System," and brings formidable expertise in Muay Thai and MMA alongside his extensive Jiu Jitsu knowledge. The coaching team also includes Cece Mena, a Brown Belt ranked directly by Eddie Bravo and Rey's very first student. As Coach and Chief of Operations, Cece brings competitive experience from Rise Invitational, Finishers Sub-Only, SOGI Grappling, and IBJJF NoGi events. She is dedicated to nurturing a formidable female presence within 10th Planet NYC and contributing to the growth of women in Jiu Jitsu. The gym offers world-class training in a supportive atmosphere, whether your goal is competing at the highest level, getting in shape, or learning street-oriented self-defense skills.

10th Planet Poway

Established in 2018, 10th Planet Poway Jiu Jitsu has built a reputation as one of the premiere No-Gi Jiu Jitsu academies in Southern California. The gym is part of the 10th Planet system founded by Eddie Bravo, a revolutionary approach to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu that focuses exclusively on No-Gi training. 10th Planet Poway offers world-class instruction for all levels, whether students have goals of competing at the highest levels, getting in shape, or learning something new. Students train under Eddie Bravo Black Belts Kevin Berbrich (3rd degree), Geo "Freakahhzoid" Martinez, and Richie "Boogeyman" Martinez, receiving the absolute best No-Gi Jiu Jitsu training in San Diego County. The academy's mission is to provide exceptional instruction to each student and help them reach their goals in a family-friendly, welcoming environment. Head instructor Kevin Berbrich is a 3rd degree Black Belt under Eddie Bravo and Geo "Freakahzoid" Martinez. He has competed at the highest levels in grappling, winning the High Rollerz 2 Absolute Championship, 2x Gracie Worlds Champion, ESL Mexico Absolute Champion, and placing 4th at the ADCC Trials. The instructional team also includes Joshua Jackson (Black Belt, 2x ADCC Open Champion, 2023 IBJJF World No-Gi Silver Medalist), Nisar Loynab (2nd degree Black Belt under Andre Galvao, head kids instructor), and several other accomplished grapplers across all belt levels.

10th Planet Villains

10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu Whittier, also known as "10P Villains," is a premier No-Gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy founded in April 2023. The gym is part of the internationally renowned 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu network founded by Eddie Bravo, specializing in no-gi grappling techniques designed for MMA and self-defense applications. The academy welcomes students of all ages and skill levels, offering programs for both adults and kids. Their training philosophy emphasizes building confidence, discipline, and resilience through the challenges of Jiu-Jitsu. The supportive environment ensures every student learns to overcome obstacles and evolve both on and off the mats. The gym integrates techniques from Wrestling, Judo, and Jiu-Jitsu into a comprehensive grappling curriculum. Head Coach Mike Wilson leads the instruction as a 2nd-degree 10th Planet Black Belt with over 16 years of experience in Jiu-Jitsu and MMA. Coach Wilson's background includes training under legendary figures like Murilo Bustamante at Brazilian Top Team before transitioning to 10th Planet in 2015. He trained extensively in Las Vegas under Casey Halstead, earning his black belt in July 2019 and serving as Head Coach of 10th Planet Downtown Las Vegas. His coaching experience extends to cornering elite UFC fighters including Joe Benevidez, Tim Elliott, Natan Levy, and serving as Team Coach for Team USA Grappling at the 2021 UWW World Championships. Under his leadership, 10th Planet Whittier has become one of Southern California's most formidable competition teams, earning team titles at the JJWL Pan American Championships (2024) and placing at multiple IBJJF events. Coach Wilson continues training under Olympic Judo Coach Justin "JFlo" Flores and maintains close connections with 10th Planet HQ and Eddie Bravo.

309 Jiu-Jitsu Academy

At 309 Jiu-Jitsu Academy, we offer high-level Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Wrestling, and Judo training in a welcoming community. Our academy emphasizes the importance of respect, self-discipline, focus, confidence, safety, and leadership. Our experienced instructors are dedicated to helping you achieve your goals and improve your skills. The coaching staff includes head instructor Ryan Prouty, a 3rd degree black belt specializing in BJJ and No-Gi, along with Jeff Symons (1st degree black belt), Mike Artman (brown belt), Kelly Madden (purple belt, wrestling specialist), Blake Harris (purple belt, wrestling and no-gi specialist), and Melanie Symons (brown belt, women's BJJ instructor). This diverse team brings expertise across multiple grappling disciplines. We believe that Jiu-Jitsu, Wrestling, and Judo is for everyone, and we welcome students of all skill levels, backgrounds, and teams to join us. Come on in for a couple free classes to see if 309 is a fit for you!

4URA MMA

Aura MMA is a collaboration of friends with the same goal – to bring some of the best training and opportunities for growth through martial arts to inner city Birmingham. The gym has become a family where everyone works together to bring out the very best in everyone. The training doesn't stop during Ramadan, as Muslim athletes adjust their routines for the holy month while continuing their martial arts journey. Since opening in Sparkhill, Aura MMA has been deluged by youngsters, with kids classes filled to capacity in a short space of time. The gym offers comprehensive training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, MMA, Muay Thai, and Wrestling, with programs for all ages and skill levels from beginners to advanced competitors.

A & M Jiu-Jitsu

A&M Jiu-Jitsu in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, embodies a philosophy of "Modern Jiu-Jitsu with an old school work ethic." Founded by Devin and Dru Phoenix in September 2017 after their previous gym closed during the pandemic, they created A&M to keep their martial arts community together. The gym features a spacious mat area designed for both technical training and hard work. The founders bring complementary experience to A&M. Dru Phoenix has trained since 2009 and coached since 2017, while Devin began training in 2020 and continues as a dedicated student. Together, they've built a gym culture that stays focused but laid-back, welcoming every type of fighter. Their approach emphasizes having fun while building strong fighters who genuinely enjoy the craft, empowering students to pursue personal goals whether in competition, self-defense, or fitness. The coaching team includes experienced instructors Dru Phoenix, Gerard Dudamell, Garrett Fosdick, Joshua Thanos, and Carlos "Rock" Acevedo. A&M takes pride in their supportive community atmosphere, where members support each other both on and off the mat. The gym offers comprehensive training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, MMA, kickboxing, boxing, wrestling, and strength & conditioning for both adults and children. Their vision is to continue growing and training world-class athletes in Jiu-Jitsu and MMA, with aspirations of developing UFC-level competitors.

Aaron Ace Reis Jiu-Jitsu

Fusion MMA & Jiu Jitsu is Southern Utah's premier Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts training facility with three locations in the St. George area. As a certified IBJJF academy and part of the Fabio Santos Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Association, Fusion provides world-class instruction in BJJ, MMA, Muay Thai Kickboxing, and Boxing. Under the leadership of Professor Aaron Reis, a 5th Degree Black Belt under Master Fabio Santos, Fusion has built a reputation for treating students like family while providing unrivaled instruction. Master Fabio Santos, one of very few Coral Belts in the world (7th Degree Red/Black Belt), is a direct student of the legendary Rolls Gracie and earned his black belt under Rickson Gracie, bringing over 35 years of teaching experience to the academy. The professional coaching staff includes Head Instructors Jennifer Reis (Black Belt and 2x IBJJF No-Gi Brown Belt World Champion who leads the area's most successful women's program), Christian Reis (Black Belt, MMA Fighter, and multiple-time champion), Kru Mickee Porritt (Muay Thai coach with over 25 years experience and 4 championship belts), and several other black belts with extensive competition experience. With 8 professional trainers and over 100 years of combined teaching experience, Fusion offers specialized programs for adults, women, and competition training at all skill levels.

Absolution Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Absolution BJJ, led by Professor Sean Ruiz, a black belt under the legendary Carlson Gracie Jr., brings nearly three decades of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu experience to Riverside, California. Professor Sean is a former MMA fighter, Jiu-Jitsu competitor, and judo black belt who has trained under renowned instructors including Javier Vazquez, Erik Paulson, and Todd Medina. His unique approach blends multiple grappling arts including catch wrestling, Luta Livre, and judo to create a comprehensive Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu curriculum. At Absolution BJJ, the training philosophy prioritizes true fundamentals while challenging advanced practitioners with theoretical depth and less conventional techniques. While the curriculum adapts to focus on either sport or self-defense depending on the room, self-defense remains king. Whether students are preparing for competition, MMA fights, or street self-defense, the gym emphasizes harmonizing technique, sparring, and conditioning to develop a complete game. Professor Sean makes Absolution more of a laboratory where students and teachers discuss and apply technique and strategy together. The coaching staff includes five accomplished black belts: Professor Sean Ruiz (Carlson Gracie Jr. lineage), Perry Wells (black belt under late Professor Orlando Sanchez of Gracie Barra with 14+ years experience), Justin Snyder (10+ years experience, law enforcement officer with 23 years service), Pat Houston (10+ years experience under Professor Sean Ruiz in Carlson Gracie lineage), and Michael Scott (wrestling background, high school and college experience). The gym offers programs for both adults and children, with specialized classes in gi BJJ, no-gi grappling, wrestling, and competition training. Kids classes start at age 8+, fostering both skill development and character building in a positive, respectful environment.

Academia Gorila

Academia Gorila, meaning "gorilla" in Portuguese, embodies strength and agility combined with a friendly, peaceful approach. Founded in October 2012 in the heart of Warsaw, the gym has grown to become Poland's fastest-developing combat sports club, with multiple branches across the country. The academy occupies over 600m² at Kopernika 36/40, featuring fully equipped training facilities including wrestling mats, a boxing ring, CrossFit area, showers, changing rooms, a chill room, and a pro shop. As the only fightsport club in Poland partnered with Reebok, Academia Gorila represents the pinnacle of professional martial arts training. The gym offers comprehensive training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Boxing, Submission Fighting, CrossFit, and Wrestling, with programs for all ages and skill levels. Open from 7 AM to 11 PM on weekdays and offering weekend classes, the academy provides maximum flexibility for members. The facility welcomes guests from around the world and regularly hosts international seminars with legendary fighters from Thailand, Spain, Germany, Norway, Belarus, Italy, and England. Academia Gorila emphasizes both competitive excellence and recreational training, creating a supportive environment where everyone from beginners to champions can pursue their goals. The coaching staff includes some of Poland's most accomplished martial artists. Head BJJ instructor Jędrzej Loska is a black belt and multiple-time national champion who has competed at the highest international level, including winning gold at The World Games 2017 in Wrocław. The Muay Thai program is led by Grzegorz Sobieszek, a psychopedagogue and sports combat expert with over 16 years of experience who has trained extensively in Thailand, Brazil, Holland, Germany, and Myanmar. Additional instructors include Marcin Polczyk (BJJ black belt with international competition experience), Marian Ziółkowski (top-ranked MMA fighter competing in KSW), and numerous other certified professionals who bring world-class expertise to every class.

Academia Jiu-Jitsu

Academia Jiu-Jitsu is a grappling network where the styles of BJJ, Judo, and Wrestling are practiced with black belt instruction.

Adapt Jiu-Jitsu

Adapt Jiu-Jitsu was founded on the belief that world-class training and real-world impact can, and should, go hand in hand. Founded by Professor Bruno Lopes, a Brazilian-born, IBJJF-certified black belt with over 15 years of experience, Adapt brings elite instruction to Herriman, Utah. Bruno earned his black belt under Pedro Sauer black belts Thiago Bertoni and John McKean and has trained with top practitioners like Richie Martinez. The gym's instructors bring backgrounds in MMA, collegiate wrestling, and competition at the highest levels of grappling. Adapt's curriculum follows the "Adapt 4 Pillars" methodology—Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (Gi), No-Gi grappling, self-defense, and anti-bullying programs. The gym blends IBJJF fundamentals with modern sport techniques while honoring the original 36 Gracie self-defense moves taught in Brazil in the 1950s. Programs are designed to be accessible to everyone, whether students are training for competition, personal growth, or practical self-defense skills. The gym's teaching staff includes Bruno Lopes (Head Professor), TJ Mitchell (No-Gi Coach), Klay Browning (Wrestling Coach), Samson Phommabout (No-Gi Head Professor), Jestin Icasiano (BJJ Professor), and Cody Bunderson (Affiliate Professor). Through The Adapt Foundation, a nonprofit initiative, the gym provides free training to underprivileged youth, military members, veterans, law enforcement, and Section 8 housing residents.

AJJ - Kings MMA

Kings MMA is a premier mixed martial arts gym in Ringwood East, Victoria, founded in 2015 by professional fighter and coach Hoshi Friedrich. The gym was established with a vision of creating well-rounded athletes skilled in all elements of MMA, offering comprehensive training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai kickboxing, wrestling, and mixed martial arts. The gym's philosophy focuses on skill development over fitness, with the belief that conditioning is a natural side effect of proper training. Kings MMA provides a quality-over-quantity training environment that is welcoming to both beginners and experienced fighters. The team emphasizes building connections, confidence, and helping members exceed their own expectations through dedicated coaching and a supportive community atmosphere. Head coach Hoshi Friedrich brings over 10 years of professional fighting experience to his teaching. A lifelong martial artist who started Karate at age three, Hoshi earned his Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt from Professor Thiago Stefanutti at Onya Academia in São Paulo, Brazil. He also holds a black belt in Karate (Go Hean Ju Ryu, Shotokan) and is a registered professional trainer, matchmaker, and promoter with the Boxing and Combat Sports Board Victoria. Coach Amy Friedrich, an active competitor since 2014, brings extensive competition experience including Pan Pacific and Australian championship titles, along with her qualifications in health and fitness training.

AJJ Apex Jiu-Jitsu

APEX Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Sterling, Virginia, is a premier martial arts training facility offering elite instruction in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, No-Gi grappling, wrestling, kickboxing, boxing, and MMA. The academy provides comprehensive training for all ages and skill levels, from preschoolers (ages 3-6) to adults, with specialized programs designed to develop technical proficiency, physical fitness, and mental discipline. APEX emphasizes both traditional Gi training and modern No-Gi techniques, giving students a well-rounded grappling foundation suitable for competition, self-defense, or personal development. The academy is led by an elite coaching team with world-class credentials. Head instructor Shane Jamil Hill-Taylor is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt with over 20 years of experience, multiple IBJJF world titles, and competed in the prestigious 2019 ADCC tournament. Coach John Brattelli holds the #1 global ranking in No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu through the IBJJF with over 10 International Open titles, and brings 26 years of Boxing and Kickboxing experience including a 2015 world championship. Coach Dan Scanlan is an NCAA National Champion wrestler (2012) with 17 years of coaching experience, having trained over 20 Virginia State Champions and multiple national titleholders. APEX offers a diverse program structure including fundamentals and advanced Jiu-Jitsu classes, competition training, marathon rolling sessions, youth and adult kickboxing, and an introductory MMA program. Classes run 6 days per week with morning, afternoon, and evening sessions to accommodate various schedules. The academy emphasizes a supportive, safe training environment where students develop practical self-defense skills, improve fitness, and build confidence. New students can start with a free trial class, and kickboxing students receive complimentary boxing gloves and shin pads upon enrollment.

AJJMT

Alpha Jiu-Jitsu & Muay Thai (AJJMT) was founded in 2017 by professors Antônio Neto, Alex William, and Ricardo Costa, emerging from the solid foundation of Gracie Barra Paraíba. The gym's roots trace back to the pioneering work of professor Luis Barbosa, who brought jiu-jitsu to Paraíba in 1990 from Rio de Janeiro. The lineage flows through the Gracie family legacy (Carlos Gracie → Hélio Gracie → Carlson Gracie → Gutenberg Melo → Mário Sukata → Key Pessoa), representing decades of dedication to preserving the art's essence and technical excellence. The academy employs a proprietary methodology designed to facilitate learning for both adults and children across all martial arts disciplines. Alpha's training philosophy emphasizes technical excellence, personal development, and preserving the legacy built over decades in the Paraíba jiu-jitsu community. The team is committed to contributing to the evolution and personal well-being of students, strengthening both spirit and body through martial arts. The instruction team is led by founder Antônio Neto (3rd degree black belt) and co-founder Ricardo Costa (2nd degree black belt, specialist in self-defense). Additional instructors include Jordaneis Júnior (black belt, kids jiu-jitsu specialist), Fabrício Marinho (brown belt, no-gi specialist), Pedro Henrique (purple belt, physical conditioning specialist), and Maria Rafaela (purple belt, women's jiu-jitsu instructor). The academy maintains strong connections to its Gracie Barra heritage and the broader development of martial arts in northeastern Brazil.

Alaska Legacy Jiu-Jitsu

Established in 2016, Legacy Jiu Jitsu has been serving the Anchorage community for over 8 years. As a proud affiliate of the ARES BJJ Association, Legacy strives to provide a comprehensive martial arts experience with programs in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, No-Gi grappling, Muay Thai, Judo, Wrestling, and MMA. The gym fosters an environment that promotes personal growth and confidence in all members, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Led by a diverse team of experienced instructors including Niko Novelli (Muay Thai/BJJ/MMA), Danny Chong (BJJ), and Jose Nicazio (Kids & Adult BJJ), Legacy Jiu Jitsu offers specialized programs for adults, youth, and women. The academy's motto 'The Family We Choose' reflects their commitment to building a supportive martial arts community in Alaska.

Allground

ALLGROUND Jiu Jitsu is a premier martial arts academy in Reno, Nevada, founded in 2024 by the Anderson family—three generations united by their dedication to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The academy's lineage traces back to the legendary Gracie Academy, where founder Lowell Anderson trained directly under the Gracie family and became one of the first Americans to earn a black belt. Lowell tested and proved the effectiveness of jiu-jitsu in the famous Gracie challenge matches, winning every match he competed in. The academy is led by Lowell's sons, black belt brothers Elias and Laird Anderson, who bring over 70 years of combined instructor experience. Elias is a Combat Jiu Jitsu World Champion (2021), while Laird is an undefeated professional MMA fighter competing in Bellator. Together, they've created an academy that blends the best techniques from Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Wrestling, and Judo to provide students with a complete grappling system. ALLGROUND's philosophy centers on four core pillars: a complete grappling system, coaches who genuinely care, team unity, and competition-tested techniques. The academy offers a beginner-friendly, inclusive environment with world-class instruction for all ages and skill levels. Programs include adult gi and no-gi jiu-jitsu, kids programs (ages 4-13), kickboxing, and specialized drilling sessions. Whether students train for self-defense, fitness, or competition, ALLGROUND provides the guidance and community to help them become the strongest version of themselves.

Alliance Betim MG

O Centro de Treinamento ASL TEAM é um sonho idealizado pelo atleta profissional de MMA e Jiu-Jitsu Alberto Santos Lucha e sua esposa, atleta profissional de Judô Aline Radesh Dumont. Ambos qualificados profissionalmente na área de preparação física e esportes de alto rendimento, os atletas competidores vislumbraram a oportunidade de ensinar o segredo das artes marciais e valores como respeito, humildade e comprometimento transmitidos nos conceitos das artes marciais. A ASL TEAM está sempre à procura de inovações, mantendo-se atualizada quanto aos métodos de ensino, treinamento e atendimento aos clientes. Com aulas que misturam exercícios físicos com entretenimento e os métodos mais eficientes e inovadores do treinamento funcional Crossfit e Crossfight, eliminando o tédio das academias tradicionais. Os treinamentos são destinados a diversos públicos, sem restrição, independentemente da idade ou gênero. O objetivo é tratar cada aluno de maneira individualizada respeitando seus interesses e limitações, trazendo juntamente com a atividade física prazer, emoção e descontração, além de melhorias na forma física, saúde e bem-estar.

Alpine Jiu Jitsu

Alpine Jiu-Jitsu is a family-owned Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy located in the heart of Alpine, California, serving the East County community since 2016. With over 20 years of combined experience, the academy offers comprehensive BJJ training for all ages starting from 5 years old, creating a welcoming environment where entire families can train together. The academy is led by founder Professor Frank Califano, a black belt under Master Fabio Santos (7th degree coral belt), and features world-class instruction from Tarsis Humphreys, a 4th-degree black belt and multiple-time IBJJF World Champion. Tarsis trained under Fabio Gurgel at the legendary Alliance Jiu-Jitsu Academy in São Paulo, Brazil, and brings elite-level competition experience to students. The coaching team includes experienced instructors Deborah Clem, David Goan, Danielle Kaiser, Matt Heinemann, and purple belt assistant coach Hector Mena, all dedicated to providing quality instruction across all skill levels. Alpine Jiu-Jitsu emphasizes building confidence, coordination, and self-defense skills while fostering a strong sense of community and family atmosphere. The academy offers specialized programs including Mini's classes (ages 5-10), Juniors & Teens (ages 11-16), Adult Fundamentals for beginners, Advanced Gi and No-Gi classes, MMA training, and women's self-defense. All head instructors are CPR, AED, and First Aid certified, ensuring a safe training environment for students of all ages and experience levels.

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.