10/04/2025
I didn’t use to like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. On Saturday, I got my BJJ Black belt.
When I started BJJ, I honestly didn’t enjoy it much but because it was an integral part of which I was transitioning into from striking, so I had to learn it. But getting smashed, choked, and armbarred by people wasn’t exactly my idea of fun. It took me a couple of years just to start liking it.
But even then, I did mostly no-gi, with the purpose of developing my grappling for MMA specifically. However, as time passed, I started to fall in love with BJJ more and more. BJJ with the gi is truly human chess, which I love. And for self defense, which I teach a lot, the uniform is essential.
This journey has been full of sweat, frustration, bruises in places I didn’t know could bruise — and some of the best moments of my life.
To all amazing training partners, coaches, and friends who’ve smashed me into the ground, encouraged me, and helped me grow — I’m forever grateful.
It’s been a long journey, from the very first first session with
Raymond Ayala who was a team mate for a long time took me to , which has recommended to go there too and who said “One day, you’ll fall in love with BJJ”.
To , and .venice , who gave me my blue and purple belt and who truly made me find my love for , our days together will forever be something that was very special to me.
A special thank you to , who started the BJJ program at ; and his attention to detail; , I wish you could be here for this; , who has been along for the ride (and part of the reason I can defend a darce 😅; and the Encino squad; , who introduced us to Checkmat; for all the great details; and ; and , for the passion and knowledge you’re pouring into our students!
Lastly, thank you for truly making me fall in love with BJJ and for your passion & love for the art, which is contagious. I’m very grateful to have received both my brown & black belt from you.
