About

Tru Jiu Jitsu is a community-focused academy dedicated to helping students reach their personal goals through world-class instruction. Our certified team specializes in Jiu Jitsu, wrestling, takedowns, kickboxing, and self-defense, offering elite training for both hobbyists and serious competitors.

Teaching and student development are Mike’s true passions. With over 20 years of martial arts experience, he brings elite, authentic training to the Chesterfield community:

• Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu: Under Renzo Gracie Lineage

• Brown Belt in Krav Maga: Certified under Lieutenant Colonel Itay Gil, bringing authentic Israeli Krav Maga and modern tactical self-defense to the mat.

• A Disciplined, Modern Approach: His background in Business, Science, and Art ensures every class is structured, safe, and highly effective for absolute beginners and competitors alike.

For the past two years, I’ve been training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, building on five years of competitive wrestling where I was a team captain at Lakeview High School. While I’m an active competitor who has had success in a competition environment, I firmly believe jiu jitsu is equally as beneficial to competitors and hobbyists alike. As a coach, I focus on discipline, leadership, and creating an environment where students are encouraged to stay humble and keep an open mind. Jiu-Jitsu is constantly teaching us that there is always something new to learn, and I strive to help students embrace that mindset both on and off the mats.

Brian’s jiu jitsu journey started at just eight years old. The discipline and foundation that he gained helped him transition seamlessly into seven years of wrestling, competing in both Japan and Hawaii. After returning to Michigan, he began training at Tru. In the three years he has been with us he has become an integral part of our gym’s culture - consistently looking for ways to