Renzo Gracie McAllen Jiu Jitsu & Self Defense

Renzo Gracie McAllen Jiu Jitsu & Self Defense traces its roots to the renowned Renzo Gracie lineage, with a direct connection to the Gracie family’s tradition of teaching Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as both self-defense and a path to personal growth. The academy is led by Professor Joshua Sharpless, who moved to McAllen in 2011 to help establish the original Gracie Barra McAllen location. Over the years, Professor Sharpless earned his black belt from Professor Tyler Bosard and has since guided the academy’s transition to the Renzo Gracie banner, taking on the role of head instructor and owner. The coaching team includes Professor Erik Sanchez, who has been with the academy since 2014 and now serves as program director and black belt professor, bringing a focus on both self-defense and competition. Karrie Jo Sharpless supports the academy’s operations and assists with kids and women’s self-defense programs, while Coach Ralph Reyna is involved in developing the kids’ program. This staff brings together years of teaching experience and a belief in the confidence-building and transformative potential of Jiu-Jitsu. Classes at Renzo Gracie McAllen run six days a week, with a structured progression from fundamentals through advanced gi instruction. The kids’ program is organized into Tiny Cubs, Little Cubs, and Junior Cubs, accommodating children as young as three and building skills as they grow. Adult students can join fundamentals and advanced gi classes, as well as open mat sessions available for both youth and adults. The academy is wheelchair accessible, and drop-ins are welcome for most classes. This structure reflects the Gracie philosophy of making Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu accessible and meaningful for students of all backgrounds and ages.

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