FightWorks Academy

FightWorks Academy in Greenville, South Carolina, offers a structured Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program rooted in the Gracie tradition, with a clear emphasis on both self-defense and personal growth. The class schedule is organized to serve a range of students, starting with kids’ gi classes for ages 8 to 14 and continuing through adults and teens, with separate sessions throughout the week. Open mat times are available multiple evenings and on Saturdays, giving students additional opportunities to drill, spar, and refine their skills outside of formal instruction. The academy is led by Dan Wallen, a 6th degree black belt under Relson Gracie and a competitor with decades on the mat. Wallen became Relson Gracie’s 40th black belt in 2011 and brings experience as a tournament organizer and podcast co-host, as well as a background in wrestling and Hap Ki Do. He is joined by a team of black belt instructors, including Josh Shreckengost, Gavin McLees, Kyle Fine, Robert Silas, Randal Alves, Patrick Gaul, and Brandon Wofford, all of whom have competition experience and contribute to both group and private lessons. The instruction is closely tied to Relson Gracie’s philosophy of training for self-defense and personal advancement, reflecting the classic Gracie lineage. Classes at FightWorks are structured to reinforce fundamentals while allowing for progression at each level. Kids’ sessions focus on building a technical foundation and confidence, while adult and teen classes balance technique, live training, and situational drills. The academy’s regular open mats encourage a collaborative training environment and provide space for students to test themselves. FightWorks welcomes visitors and drop-ins, making it accessible for traveling practitioners as well as locals looking to join a dedicated Gracie Jiu-Jitsu school.

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