Royce Gracie Jiu Jitsu Academy

Royce Gracie Jiu Jitsu Academy in Shakopee, Minnesota, was founded in 2020 by John King and Winona Wabasha, who began teaching jiu jitsu and self-defense from their home before opening a public gym in 2021. John King is Minnesota’s first Royce Gracie black belt and has maintained a close relationship with Royce Gracie for over ten years. This connection ensures the academy’s adherence to the authentic principles of Gracie Jiu Jitsu as developed by Royce himself. The academy emphasizes practical self-defense through the RGJJ 360 curriculum, a program designed to prepare students for real-life situations while incorporating the 753 code of warrior principles and Gracie Diet teachings for a holistic approach to health and fitness. Training at Royce Gracie Jiu Jitsu Academy follows a structured progression starting with fundamentals and extending through intermediate and advanced levels across both youth and adult classes. The RGJJ 360 curriculum is offered in gi classes for kids as young as five through teens and adults, with specialized classes like RGJJ 360 Jr Warriors for ages 5-7 and 8-12. Adults and teens can also attend Level 1 and Level 2 classes, along with review and sparring sessions to refine techniques. Beyond jiu jitsu, the academy offers kickboxing and striking classes, as well as fitness-oriented group training programs such as UFIT, Fight Fit, and Fam Fit, which blend conditioning with martial arts skills. The facility supports training with ample mat space, a welcoming lobby, multiple changing rooms, and free Wi-Fi. It is wheelchair accessible and provides convenient parking for members. Classes are scheduled Monday through Thursday, with new student trials and fitness assessments available by appointment. Royce Gracie Jiu Jitsu Academy balances tradition with a broad fitness approach, maintaining a focus on authentic self-defense skills and physical conditioning for families and individuals at various stages of their martial arts journey.

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