Royce Gracie Jiu Jitsu Academy of Raleigh

Royce Gracie Jiu Jitsu Academy of Raleigh brings the original Gracie family self-defense system to North Carolina, led by a team of Royce Gracie-certified black belts including head instructor Billy Dowey. As the first Royce Gracie-affiliated academy in Raleigh, the school follows the structured curriculum developed by UFC legend Royce Gracie, preserving the teaching methods handed down by Grandmaster Hélio Gracie. This approach emphasizes fundamentals, real-world application, and a curriculum designed for all ages, reflecting the Gracie tradition of accessible, effective Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Classes for adults cover a full range of gi-based Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, including mixed-level instruction, the 360 Level 1 and 2 JJ programs, sparring, and specialized sessions such as Reality Based Applications for colored belts. No-gi training is available, and students can supplement their grappling with Judo under Josh Kroubih and a comprehensive kickboxing program taught by Donna Natzol and Ted Leiner. The academy’s schedule encourages cross-training, with multiple opportunities each week for both striking and grappling in a group setting—something Royce Gracie designed specifically to open his family’s system beyond private lessons. Youth programs introduce children to Gracie Jiu-Jitsu and kickboxing, with a focus on discipline, anti-bullying, and self-defense. Kids’ classes are structured to build confidence and control, drawing on decades of Gracie family experience in youth martial arts. Visitors and drop-ins are welcome, and the facility is wheelchair accessible, supporting a broad range of students who want to train in authentic Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Raleigh.

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