Top Martial Arts Charlotte (TMA Charlotte) - Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

Stepping onto the mats at Top Martial Arts Charlotte, students are immediately met by instructors with deep competitive and coaching experience. The academy is led by Professor Jae Ho Lee, a third-degree black belt under Roberto Traven and a veteran of IBJJF Worlds, Pan Ams, and the Abu Dhabi World Pro. Since founding TMA Charlotte in 2012, Professor Lee has built a team that includes Howard “Mitch” Phillips, Eric Perkins, Osvaldo “OB” Batista, Dow Perkins, and wrestling coach Joseph Coss—each bringing a decade or more of training, competition, and teaching to the room. Classes at TMA Charlotte are structured to keep students progressing steadily, whether they’re learning fundamentals or preparing for competition. The schedule blends gi and no-gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, with adult and kids classes running throughout the week, including early morning, midday, and evening sessions. Kids’ BJJ covers ages 6 to 12 and is supported by wrestling classes, while adults can choose from gi, no-gi, women’s BJJ, and competition-focused training. Open mat sessions are held on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, making it easy for students to get in extra rounds or specific drilling. The academy’s approach emphasizes holistic coaching and sustainable progress, reflecting Professor Lee’s belief in gradual, consistent development over shortcuts or burnout. Students benefit from hands-on instruction, with coaches who have won at the highest levels and who remain active in both teaching and competition. With wheelchair access and a drop-in-friendly policy, TMA Charlotte welcomes a diverse group of practitioners and maintains a steady focus on both self-defense and sport Jiu-Jitsu.

Amenities