Sonoran Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy

Sonoran Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy was founded by Aaron Botehlo, who earned his black belt under Martin Escobar, a Carlson Gracie black belt. Aaron opened the school in 2018, starting in a modest 1,000-square-foot space before expanding to the current facility on Grant Road. As an affiliate of Marcelo Garcia, a multiple-time world champion, Sonoran BJJ is the only school in Arizona directly connected to his lineage. The team regularly trains with Marcelo in New York, and his technical influence shapes both the curriculum and the academy’s approach to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The coaching staff brings over 50 years of combined teaching experience to the mats. Aaron leads the adult program, supported by black belt instructors Morgan Holland and Gabriela Bowman. Morgan blends classic open-guard with modern techniques, while Gabriela, who started teaching at age 12, runs the kids and women’s programs. She draws on a background in wrestling, judo, and high-level competition, including IBJJF Pan Am medals and numerous state championships. Together, the coaches emphasize detailed instruction, often focusing on a single position for up to two weeks to ensure students internalize key concepts and movements. Sonoran BJJ offers a full schedule of gi and no-gi classes, including fundamentals, all-levels sessions, and open mats. The kids’ program welcomes students from age 7, with a strong emphasis on leadership and confidence. Women’s classes are available in both gi and no-gi formats. The academy also provides Ten Round Tuesday training and even pranayama and yin yoga for recovery. With 1,500 square feet of mat space, accessible facilities, and a structured progression system, Sonoran BJJ has become a hub for both recreational and competitive grapplers in Tucson.

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