Pentagon Mixed Martial Arts - Muay Thai & Jiu Jitsu

Pentagon Mixed Martial Arts - Muay Thai & Jiu Jitsu has been part of the Arlington martial arts landscape since 2012. The academy was founded by a husband-and-wife team with a vision for a true mixed martial arts school—one that could foster both Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and striking under the same roof. The Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program is led by Coach Sa’idah Durkee, a black belt competitor whose record includes three IBJJF Masters World gi titles, three Masters Pan championships, a No-Gi Pan title, and medals at the adult Worlds. She co-leads the BJJ program and competition team, bringing high-level experience and a hands-on coaching approach. The training structure at Pentagon splits students into foundations and competition classes, ensuring beginners and seasoned athletes each get the right pace and focus. Both gi and no-gi jiu-jitsu are offered for adults, with Coach Durkee and Coach Isaac July providing technical instruction and supporting students who want to compete. This BJJ program operates alongside a robust Muay Thai curriculum led by Kru Vivek Nakarmi, who brings over twenty years of experience across Muay Thai, kickboxing, and BJJ. The wider coaching staff also includes instructors with backgrounds in judo and other combat sports. Pentagon serves adults, teens, and kids in Arlington, Pentagon City, and the greater DC area, with separate youth and adult facilities. The kids’ and teen programs are structured by age and skill, and the academy is known for a healthy ratio of women on the mats, in part due to Coach Durkee’s presence as a female black belt and active competitor. For families looking for a practical mix of grappling and striking, or adults who want serious BJJ without giving up striking and MMA, Pentagon MMA offers a well-defined path in both disciplines.

Amenities