03/04/2026
Over the past 20+ years of training and teaching martial arts, one of the things I’ve always loved most is watching people grow through the martial arts journey. Seeing new members start out, keep showing up, putting in the work, and eventually begin to make their mark in competition is one of the most rewarding parts of being part of this community.
Through THEØRY and events like the THEØRY Grappling Invitational, I’ve had the chance to see a lot of those moments up close and help spotlight some really talented rising athletes as they step onto the competition stage.
These experiences made me realize how many people in this sport are grinding every day and building something special long before anyone outside their gym really notices, along with the challenges of being seen and noticed for grappling opportunities.
Because of that, I started a new project called "The Center Mat". The goal is to create a place that highlights and showcases rising grappling athletes as they continue to grow in the sport, and provide opportunities for them to be seen and recognized.
If you enjoy following the next generation of grapplers, or if you’re an athlete (or know an athlete) building your way up through the competition scene and want to be spotlighted, I’d love for you to check it out and follow .
