Our jiu jitsu program in Kendall offers technical Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in a friendly, no‑ego environment for kids, teens, and adults. Classes focus on real self‑defense, solid fundamentals, and healthy conditioning for beginners, hobbyists, and competitors.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
MMA
Muay Thai
Self Defense
COACHES
Ariel
“Tarzan”
Sexton
3rd degree Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt
Originally from Vancouver, Canada, Ariel began training Jiu Jitsu in Costa Rica under Professor Mauro Sergio, where he quickly discovered his passion for the art. His journey led him to the Gracie family, inspiring a move to New York City to train under Daniel Gracie and the Renzo Gracie Team during the historic Blue Basement era—a period that produced many of the sport’s most respected athletes. There, Ariel refined the pressure‑based, submission‑driven style he’s known for today.
Professional mixed martial artist with over 25 years of experience
Ariel went on to serve as Head Coach at Renzo Gracie Brooklyn, one of the top academies in the world, where he led over 700 students. He launched the women’s program, developed the MMA curriculum, and built out the kids’ Jiu Jitsu program—helping shape the next generation of martial artists. A multiple‑time Costa Rican Jiu Jitsu champion and veteran of ONE Championship’s lightweight division, Ariel brings both elite‑level experience and a teacher’s mindset to every class.
Now based in Miami, Ariel is channeling that same world‑class energy into his own academy—creating a space for beginners, competitors, and families to train hard, stay humble, and grow together.
Daniel
Gracie
Brazilian jiu-jitsu Coral belt
Brazilian jiu-jitsu Coral belt
Professional mixed martial artist with over 35 years of experience
Born on June 28, 1972, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, he grew up surrounded by jiu-jitsu, training under Carlos Gracie Jr. after early exposure from senior family members such as Hélio, Rolls, Carlson, and Carlos Jr. He earned his black belt in 1996, shortly after winning the IBJJF World Championship absolute division as a brown belt, and went on to become a sixth-degree black belt while competing successfully in major tournaments including the Brazilian Nationals. In 2002 he transitioned to MMA, fighting in promotions like PRIDE, the International Fight League, Bellator, and Israel FC, and finished his professional MMA career with a record of 5 wins, 4 losses, and 1 draw before later appearing in New Japan Pro-Wrestling alongside Rolles Gracie Jr. After retiring from high-level competition, Daniel shifted his focus to teaching and team development, working through Renzo Gracie–related academies and his own Daniel Gracie–branded schools, where he emphasizes traditional Gracie self‑defense, high-intensity competition training, and the continuation of his family’s jiu-jitsu legacy for adults and children.
Our students
My 8-year-old son went from shy to confident champ thanks to Ariel’s kids’ classes. Fun games build skills without pressure, and he loves the structure. Ariel’s patience shines.
– Liana W., Proud Parent
Ariel’s classes gave me practical self-defense skills I feel confident using in real life. His step-by-step breakdowns turn complex moves into simple, effective tools.
– Micah M., Adult Beginner
Ariel creates a true team atmosphere. The perfect blend of challenging sessions and encouraging discussions kept me coming back after the free trial. I feel like I joined a family.
– Andrea G., New Student
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Location: 14133 SW 119th Ave, Miami, FL, 33186
WhatsApp Number: +(506) 87202070
E-mail: info@athleticadvancemiami.com
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