NOLA BJJ

NOLA BJJ is known in New Orleans for its deep roots in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and its commitment to a broad grappling and martial arts curriculum. Founded in the late 1990s by a small group of enthusiasts training in a friend's garage, the academy is now led by owner and head instructor Matthias Meister, a Pan American and IBJJF Masters World Champion, alongside Marshall Baker, who holds a black belt under Meister and brings over a decade of teaching and competition experience. The school’s move to its Magazine Street location after Hurricane Katrina marked a new chapter, with the iconic “X” logo honoring the city’s resilience and the academy’s own story of rebuilding. The training program at NOLA BJJ is anchored by both gi and no-gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, offering clear fundamentals classes for beginners and a full progression into advanced training. Adult students can train in traditional gi classes, no-gi fundamentals and advanced sessions, and wrestling for BJJ, with instruction from a team of black belts and experienced coaches including Jon Butts, Juan Cardona, Stephen Link, and others. Judo and gi wrestling are also taught, and open mats are a regular part of the schedule for extra rounds and technical work. Women’s-only classes provide a space for female students to develop skills with dedicated coaching, while kickboxing and personal training round out the combat sports offerings. Kids’ Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a core part of the academy, with separate classes for age groups starting at four years old and advanced training for older children. Youth kickboxing is also available. Drop-ins are welcome, and the school’s central location—housed in a historic former fire station—makes it accessible for both locals and visitors. NOLA BJJ’s blend of grappling styles, strong competition background, and inclusive approach reflect both the spirit of New Orleans and decades of martial arts tradition on the mats.

Amenities