Do I need experience to start Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at Faction Combat?

No. Classes are beginner-friendly and scaled to your level.

Is BJJ good for self-defense or just for sport?

Both. We teach escapes and submissions for real situations and offer Gi and No-Gi training for competition.

Do you offer Kids BJJ near Mesa and Gilbert?

Yes. We run Kids BJJ for ages 6–12 in East Mesa, close to Gilbert and nearby cities.

Where does Sharkside Jiu-Jitsu teach?

Sharkside Jiu-Jitsu teaches inside Faction Combat in East Mesa—minutes from Gilbert, Queen Creek, Apache Junction and San Tan Valley.

Is there a free trial for BJJ?

Yes. Book a free class to meet coaches, see a session and find the right schedule.

BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU

Q: Is Jiu-Jitsu good for self defense?

Yes Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for self defense has become increasingly popular. Jiu-Jitsu is often described as a "gentle" art, because it relies on factors such as using an opponent's momentum, body weight, leverage and positional control to defeat them - rather than striking them with punches or kicks. This makes Jiu-Jitsu an effective self-defense system for men, women and even children.

Competition BJJ and Jiu-Jitsu Combatives

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) in Mesa & Gilbert

Powered by Sharkside Jiu-Jitsu at Faction Combat

Brazilian Jiu jitsu in Mesa AZ - Sharkside Jiu Jitsu crew at Faction Combat Mixed Martial Arts gym - BJJ classes in Mesa

Looking for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu near Mesa, Gilbert, Queen Creek, Apache Junction, or San Tan Valley? At Faction Combat in East Mesa, our BJJ program is proudly taught by Sharkside Jiu-Jitsu, bringing world-class instruction and proven competition lineage under one roof. Whether you want to train for self-defense, fitness, or competition, our partnership gives you access to a complete program that’s beginner-friendly, family-friendly, and trusted across the East Valley.

Kids BJJ (ages 6–12): Build discipline, coordination, and confidence.
Adult BJJ (Gi & No-Gi): Learn positional control, submissions, and escapes.
Self-Defense Focus: Apply BJJ to real-world situations.
Competition Training: For those preparing to test themselves on the mat.

We provide a different approach to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Mesa AZ. Many Brazilian Jiu Jitsu training programs have a heavy focus on the competitive aspect, preparing their students for competition BJJ as well as getting to the next belt. Our classes are suitable for anyone, of any skill level from beginner level Jiu Jitsu to the advanced practitioner in BJJ.

Here at Faction Combat, while we will prepare and teach you how to dominate in the next BJJ competition, we are heavily focused on the real world application of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. East Mesa, and for that matter the entire United States is no stranger to violence and we want you to be prepared to nullify any threat in the least dangerous fashion - while also making sure you don't seriously injure someone and end up in trouble with the police.

In this program you will learn how to utilize the many aspects of this powerful martial art, such as positioning control, leverage and timing to protect yourself against any attacker. Your Sharkside Brazilian Jiu Jitsu coach, Brenden Richardson, has an extensive background in law enforcement as well as a black belt in BJJ under Gustavo Dantas (Nova Uniao). His combined experience makes this unique training program perfect for those wanting to learn how to protect themselves, enter competitive BJJ or even fight in MMA.

Try your first BJJ class free at Faction Combat — the East Mesa home of Sharkside Jiu-Jitsu.

Sharkside Jiu-Jitsu Social Media

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Brazilian JiuJitsu gym in Gilbert AZ teaching BJJ technique

Adult Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in East Mesa

Faction Combat is not your typical run of the mill BJJ gym. We combine BJJ competition training as well as self-defense training. Our competitors are well-versed in both sport BJJ and self-defense, “street” BJJ.

During your journey into learning this brilliant martial art to protect yourself and your family, you will definitely pick up the skills to dominate on the mat - and if you want to compete, we will get you ready and be there every step of the way.

We offer top notch training to adults of all levels. Whether you are a beginner who is just interested in a great workout while learning a new craft, or a seasoned professional who is in town looking to roll and spar while preparing for a BJJ tournament - we offer the same attention to everyone who walks through our door.

Since the major boom in interest in BJJ during the 90's and early 2000's due to the rise in popularity of MMA, many people have become keen on learning this highly functional martial art. Whether you are looking to compete in Gi or No Gi Jiu Jitsu, want to learn how to protect yourself and family or are looking to enroll your child in some after school programs to burn off some energy - Sharkside BJJ at Faction Combat has what you are looking for.

Kids BJJ in Gilbert — stretching for guard pass drill

Kids Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (ages 6-12) in East Mesa

Our kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu programs are designed with the development and safety of your child in mind. In today's world, you can truly never be too careful when it comes to your children and one of the most effective martial arts to teach them is Jiu Jitsu. Mesa AZ children ages 6-12 will learn the fundamentals of one of the most highly evolved martial arts in use today.

We will teach them how to close distance, initiate a take down against an attacker, effective ground control from multiple positions and eventually how to submit an opponent or attacker. We offer classes in both no Gi and Gi Brazilian Jiu Jitsu which both have their own set uses in the real world and on the mat and will show you how to utilize different types of leverage to turn the tide on your attacker. Turning a disadvantage into your advantage is very much the soul of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Mesa AZ, like many other areas in the US, is seeing a rise in bullying in schools - and BJJ is the perfect martial art for your child to learn to protect themselves from it.

It unquestionably looks much better for your kid to stop a bully by nullifying their attack and controlling them on the ground with their Brazilian Jiu Jitsu training, while not injuring them, than it does if they punch the bully in the face. Often a bully will flip the script and your kid will end up being the one in trouble - but not so much if no one gets hurt. We want you to see development in your child not just within the context of our gym, but in your home and at school as well. Increased focus, discipline and respect are just as important as the physical skill and knowledge of the martial art.

Self-defense BJJ escape Queen Creek student

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for Self Defense in Mesa / Gilbert

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for self defense has become one of the most popular programs in our gym. Not everybody wants to learn BJJ in order to compete. We have created the Best Jiu Jitsu classes for those who want to learn how to defend themselves in potentially violent situations that can occur on the streets. From learning how to use BJJ to defend against strikes and gain the advantage over your attacker, escape from a disadvantaged position and get to safety, plus so much more.

The goal of our program is to make you self sufficient and confident should a violent situation arise with your training in BJJ. Mesa AZ is in general a safe place when compared to other cities around the world, but crime still happens and you can never be too prepared when it comes to you or your family's safety.

faction combat gym brazilian jiu jitsu students competing in gilbert

Sharkside Jiu-Jitsu Competition Team at Faction Combat

Faction Combat is the official Mesa training location for Sharkside Jiu-Jitsu, giving students direct access to coaches and teammates with deep Gi and No-Gi competition experience. Sharkside’s proven system has helped athletes succeed across local and national tournaments. So come train with them right here in East Mesa.

For those who want to compete, we offer:

Structured progression from beginner to advanced competition prep.
Gi and No-Gi classes tailored to tournament formats.
Competition team practices with Sharkside Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instructors.
Mentorship and coaching support at local tournaments in Arizona.

Whether you are a local who is just starting out and dreams of competing at the highest level or a professional BJJ competitor coming through town for your next competition, you will find what you are looking for here on our mats.

Our instructors have extensive experience in competitive Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and welcome students and competitors of all levels and ages. With kids, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu competitions can be an excellent confidence and self esteem builder. Our expert coaches can prepare both children and adults for Gi or no Gi Jiu Jitsu tournaments and competitions.

Even if you never plan to compete, training alongside Sharkside’s team raises the intensity, sharpens your technique, and accelerates your growth.

Come try a Free Class and see the Sharkside difference!

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Instructors

BJJ instructors in Mesa AZ at Faction Combat - Multiple BJJ black belts pose for photo at Faction Combat MMA Gym in Mesa.

Brenden Richardson: Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Head Instructor

Brendan has a wealth of experience as not only a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu coach, but as a competitor in the sport placing 3rd in the IBJJF World Championships. He also has a deep understanding of BJJ and its practical use in violent situations as a law enforcement officer. His passion is teaching you protection and you will see that when you train with him.

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Roanin Richardson: Kids BJJ Instructor

Having grown up under the tutelage of Coach BR, Roanin has fast been making a name for himself on the competition scene. In 2024 Roanin submitted all his opponents to become the IBJJF American National Blue Belt Champion in his weight category. Roanin now shares his wrestling / jiu-jitsu experience with the Sharkside team, helping coach kids and adult classes.

FAQ

Common Questions About our Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) Classes

adults BJJ takedown class in Mesa AZ near queen creek

What is the difference between Gi and no Gi BJJ?

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a martial art that can be trained with or without a Gi. The Gi is the traditional uniform worn in Jiu-Jitsu, and consists of a heavy cotton jacket, pants as well as belt. No gi training typically takes place in shorts and a rash guard. No Gi Jiu Jitsu is typically geared more towards MMA training, Gi Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is traditional and is often used to train for competitive BJJ.

How effective is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for self defense?

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is great for self defense and has become increasingly popular. Jiu-Jitsu is often described as a "gentle" art, because it relies on factors such as using an opponent's momentum, body weight, leverage and positional control to defeat them - rather than striking them with punches or kicks. This makes Jiu-Jitsu an effective self-defense system for men, women and even children.

What age can my kid start BJJ?

It is recommended that children can begin their Brazilian Jiu Jitsu training as early as age 6. Though you can teach them in a playful manner at home when they are younger, it is not recommended to enroll them in a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu class until this age. Starting your child on their BJJ journey as young as possible will help to give them guidance, discipline and self confidence throughout their life.

Am I too old to start Jiu-Jitsu?

Many people wonder if they are too old to start Brazilian Jiu Jitsu training. The answer is that it is never too late to start learning Jiu-Jitsu. Because of the low impact nature of the martial art, it is much easier for people of any age to start their journey then other forms such as Karate or Kenpo. There are actually many benefits to starting Jiu-Jitsu when you are older including improved mobility and cardiovascular health.

Why is Faction the best place to train BJJ in Mesa?

Training with Sharkside Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at Faction is the best place to train in Mesa because not only are our multiple Black Belt Instructors some of the best, but they actually care about you and your progress. Our BJJ crew is filled with like-minded people that share a passion for the sport. The people you roll with are not ego driven maniacs, but rather professionals of industry just looking to sharpen their skills and train with some of the most knowledgable and skilled instructors in Brazilian Jiu-jJtsu. A number of our students have gone on to get Silver and Gold medals in various major competitions, but even if that isn't what drives you, these competitors are happy to help you sharpen your own skills for whatever your goals may be.

Where is Sharkside Jiu-Jitsu located?

Sharkside Jiu-Jitsu teaches inside Faction Combat in East Mesa: 1529 S Clearview Ave #107, Mesa, AZ 85209—minutes from Gilbert, Queen Creek, Apache Junction, and San Tan Valley.

Is Sharkside Jiu-Jitsu part of Faction Combat or a separate gym?

Sharkside is the official BJJ program provider operating inside Faction Combat. You’ll train at our East Mesa academy with Sharkside coaches trained under Gustavo Dantas.