Underground Jiu-Jitsu Academy
Instructors
Our mission at Underground Jiu-Jitsu Academy is to create a family-friendly training environment that focuses on the self-defense aspect of Gracie jiu-jitsu. We are committed to providing all students with a fun, safe, and supportive environment that promotes a well-rounded sense of physical and mental health utilizing the teachings of Grand Master Helio Gracie & Grand Master Carlos Gracie via Royce Gracie’s Jiu-Jitsu Network 360 program.
Founder & Head Instructor
John King
Founder & Head Instructor at Underground Jiu-Jitsu Academy
- Certified Royce Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Network Gym Affiliate 2021
- Certified Royce Gracie Level 1 Instructor 2021
- Certified Royce Gracie G.R.A.C.I.E. Instructor 2022
- Black Belt: Spring 2023 from Royce Gracie
- Brown Belt: Spring 2018 from Rodrigo Gracie
- Purple Belt: Spring 2014 from Rodrigo Gracie
- Blue Belt: Spring 2011 from Royce Gracie
- White Belt: 2010
- 10+ years of martial arts teaching experience
- Dakota County Technical College Alumni
- Certified in American Heart Association Basic Life Support (CPR & AED for Adults, Children, & Infants) for the Health Care Provider
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Director of Operations & Assistant Instructor
Winona Wabasha
Instructor at Underground Jiu-Jitsu Academy
- Purple Belt: 2022 from Royce Gracie
- Blue Belt: 2018 from Rodrigo Gracie
- White Belt: 2016
- Registered & Licensed Dental Hygienist in the State of Minnesota
- Normandale Community College & Minnesota State University, Mankato Alumni
- Former Childcare Worker & Teacher’s Aide at Playworks Childcare Center in Prior Lake, MN
- Former Emergency Medical Responder in the State of Minnesota
- Certified in American Heart Association Basic Life Support (CPR & AED for Adults, Children, & Infants) for the Health Care Provider
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Testimonials
John & Winona are absolutely fabulous. Working with them has been amazing. They take their time to make sure you are doing your moves properly and are willing to answer any questions throughout the sessions. They make sure you feel comfortable and ask to make sure you are ok along the way. They teach you step by step and help if you forget or get confused. I am so happy I started training with them. I definitely feel more confident in myself from taking their course.
Danielle B.
RGJJ 360 Program
I like jiu-jitsu because I am learning new things. I am active and I am able to socialize with other people. I like my coach and mentor (John) for jiu-jitsu because he helps when others (and I) need it.
Jayden W.
Jr Warriors Program
John has been priceless for me. The information and knowledge I have and continue to gain are incredible. He is very a friendly, humble, and honest coach who knows his BJJ absurdly well. He is an amazing teacher of technique and attention to detail. Every time we roll I am challenged and well taken care of at the same time. I have a blast every time I train with him. Incredible atmosphere. High-quality instruction. Great place to learn/roll. Can’t recommend it enough! Thank you.
Ron C.
RGJJ 360 Program
As an entry-level student, I found that the classes that were provided to me were set in a safe and professional environment. There wasn’t a time I didn’t leave John’s class without feeling exhausted but also energized and I always left the class with a smile on my face as I learned that I was capable of more than I knew! Both the self-defense and regular curriculum classes were practical and at a pace that was as a beginner. I think John and Winona are phenomenal instructors and make sure that you are safely practicing your craft alongside their expertise
Allie R.
RGJJ 360 Program
I have been training under John for about 5 years. He is very knowledgeable and teaching a class comes naturally to him. He is constantly taking opportunities to learn about jiu-jitsu and further his skills to help the people he teaches. I have seen him teach a wide range of abilities and he is always happy to take the time each student needs to develop their skills. I have also seen him teach a number of kids classes and he’s able to keep the classes engaging and fun for them.
Mike H.
RGJJ 360 Program