Student Rating
8.6
34 Google reviews · 0 community reviews
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Not rated
Classes & Schedule
8.5
Estimated · 8 tags
Facility
6.0
Verified · 5 photos
Atmosphere
Not rated
Pricing & Value
Not rated
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Disciplines
GiJudoMMANo-GiSelf-DefenseStrikingWrestling
Classes
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Community reviews
Reviews from Jiu-Jitsu Blog members who have trained at Black Flag Submission co. Member recommendations raise an academy's Jiu-Jitsu Blog Score.
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Black Flag Submission Co. is truly something special. Coming back to training, I walked in with insecurities and things I had worked hard to push through. Not once did I feel judged or out of place. This team is made up of men and women of all shapes, sizes, colors, and experience levels, and the environment is nothing but supportive. It genuinely feels like family, the kind that pushes you forward and helps you stay accountable to the goals you’ve set for yourself.
Coach Gilbert is big on discipline and growth. He’s the kind of coach who will call things out when needed, but he’s also always in your corner. He cares. That balance creates real progress and confidence, both on and off the mats.
What really sets Black Flag apart is Not only how much support there is from everyone but also how much there is to learn. There’s jiu jitsu, wrestling, catche wrestling, kids classes, teen classes, and a wide variety of styles and approaches. No matter your level, you’re never stuck doing the same thing or feeling like you’re not improving. Every single class, you leave knowing more than when you walked in.
You never leave here feeling defeated. You leave feeling accomplished, motivated, and confident that you’re training at the right place. If you’ve been thinking about starting or returning to training, this is the sign you’re looking for. Black Flag Submission Co. is absolutely worth it
Black Flag Submission Co. is an amazing place for kids.
The coaches are knowledgeable, patient, and truly care about the kids. The environment is welcoming, respectful, and positive. My son’s have learned so much—not just wrestling and submissions, but discipline and confidence. Highly recommend to any parent looking for quality training and great people.
Black Flag is definitely is a great place to train. Different grappling styles on the schedule so there is something for everyone. All the instructors are solid. Coach Racinda is great with my kids and doesn’t miss when she’s filling in teaching for other classes as well. Coach Gilbert and Scotty are both the type of instructors that can break down techniques step by step and make sure you’re understanding the ins and outs, not just learning moves but building a game. Great grappling club. Besides that…the gym is just what you need. Enough space with some soft mats, always clean. Music is always on point. I’m happy to be part of the black flag crew.
Black Flag rises above!
From the second I walked in, the room was filled with smiles, jokes, and 90s hip-hop. The coaches and professors are focused entirely on how to help you grow and round out your grappling with BJJ, Catch Wrestling, Judo, and Collar-and-Elbow. They treat you like family immediately.
In a world where martial arts gyms will charge you $150+ per month and lock you into a contract or force you to buy and wear their brands, it's amazing to see a place like Black Flag that welcomes you to step right in and do whatever flavor of wrasslin' you like. No contracts and the cheapest price I've seen.
Come train with us and make sure to check out the judo classes!
Black Flag has been my training home for years, and I couldn’t be happier to see it thriving in this new location. The heart of Black Flag has always been the people and the coaching—and that remains the same. Coach Gilbert is not only an incredible grappling coach, but also someone who makes every class engaging, challenging, and fun. His knowledge of grappling is top-notch, and he teaches with patience, passion and humor. The rest of the coaching staff is amazing too. They follow suit to make this an amazing place where people want to be and learn.
What sets this gym apart is the atmosphere: it’s welcoming, safe, and truly feels like family. I trust the coaching staff completely—not only with my own training, but also with my children’s. That says everything. Black Flag is a place where skills grow, confidence builds, and community thrives. My whole family will continue to train here for years to come.
Posted 1 year ago
Jose Galindo
Awesome spot for Judo, friendly and open to new comers. I was visiting from San Diego, CA and was treated well. Thank You Black Flag Submission Co. staff hope to visit again soon.
Posted 1 year ago
Osheliq Alexander
I been training for a few months now and this gym is great!!! The coaching staff and the team are amazing people. This gym treats you like family.
Posted 1 year ago
Francois Taillefer
Good coaching and friendly environment.
Posted 2 years ago
Travonte Moore
A top tier grappling gym that specializes in controlled aggression and dominance from stand up to the ground; They also include Boxing, Judo, and MMA. VERY KID FRIENDLY.
Posted 2 years ago
k H
This is a great place to train with a very experienced and knowledgeable coaching staff.
Posted 2 years ago
Carter Hill
This is a great gym! I love the catch wrestling and boxing classes!
Posted 2 years ago
Karina Murrieta
As someone who has ZERO experience and just starting out I came to my first class on Saturday with Coach Rene. Everyone in the class was very welcoming and coach Rene was very patient and helpful when I wasn't getting it at first. He took the extra time to show me again so I can get it right and made me feel very comfortable. Great place!
Posted 3 years ago
Gary Hilleshiem
I am in town visiting from out of state. I am lucky enough to have the ability to travel the states and experience many different schools for over a little over decade and a half. While in Phoenix. always do my homework before I visit- as I want to have the best experience possible.
There are many many schools in the area but this school in particular had catch wrestling and sets itself apart from the standard of the mill Brazilian Jiu Jitsu schools. The coaching and lessons were simple, easy to execute and felt natural. Gilbert has a approachable personality and was easy to talk to and ask questions. Very relatable and personable.
If you are looking to learn solid practical martial arts and join a welcoming community this is your place. You would be hard pressed to find another professor that could put the same amount of heart and soul into the students and school... and it shows. Definitely worth your time and effort - check them out!
Posted 3 years ago
Ali Shaiek
Absolutely incredible team when my old gym closed down and I had to switch gyms I felt right at home here. The coaching is great and the competition here is as tough as nails.
Posted 3 years ago
Ottawa WT
Such a warm welcome from a stranger who just happened to walk in from the streets. Skilled and sharp instruction from excellent instructors. Would recommend for both advanced and novice alike!
Posted 3 years ago
Terrell Kluting
Awesome spot with a great culture! Only legit CACC school in the valley! Great spot for your first day or for the experienced grappler wanting to take their skills to the next level. Offers Striking, MMA, Jiu Jitsu, Catch Wrestling and Judo for everyone, kids and adults. Come get some!
Posted 3 years ago
Alejandro Gonzalez
Great coaches, awesome teammates. Fun place to train and challenge yourself.
Posted 3 years ago
Ssj4samuel
My son came to this gym with zero wrestling experience. The coaches and other wrestlers were patient with working/teaching him. I’ve noticed I huge boost in his self confidence along with his wrestling.I couldn’t imagine him at a different gym. I highly recommend black flag.
Posted 3 years ago
Siraj Durrani
One of the best MMA training in Glendale downtown.very respectful and very knowledgeable coaches are involved with black flag jiu jitsu I love to go here once again.
Posted 3 years ago
Johnny Baez
What can I say, best decision I’ve made! Been training for a year here and have nothing but great things to say. You want to challenge yourself and see how far you can go, start here! I can guarantee you will see change in yourself,you will see how it helps you inside and outside of gym. Great vibes, family oriented! Come on down and get yourself a free week trial!! What more do you got to lose?! Thank you to all the coaches here for the hospitality and support!!! Only way is up!!
Posted 3 years ago
Yah Luv (Monstaloon)
My daughter just started judo on Sundays and Tuesdays and Wednesdays for jujitsu and she loves every part of it… they are definitely family oriented. thank you for having things like this in our communities
Posted 4 years ago
miranda garcia
Love the coaches. My kids seem to be learning quickly and really enjoy going in. Coach Nancy is great!
Posted 4 years ago
D M
A great place to train. A gym that is evolving with the sport and incorporates a lot of wrestling techniques. Many current and former wrestlers train here. This gym has people of all sizes and skill levels. The gym also has a very nice strength training area. The coaching here is great. I feel that everyone should check this place out as it would be a great home for you.
Posted 4 years ago
Christian
Badass Gym and Badass Team/Instructors. Very Affordable and very easy to grasp, now I know how to break an arm in 8 different places within 2 weeks of training haha.
Posted 4 years ago
Gabriel Massey
Great environment to start training for the first time or if you’re just moving to the area and looking for a new school, would highly recommend!
Posted 4 years ago
brooke Orrill
Feels like family. Love coming! Definitely the highlight of my week!
Posted 4 years ago
Ruthanne Chvostovsky
This is a amazing gym. There is so much support and a amazing environment not only for adults but for children as well. Blackflag has helped me grow and will continue to help me grow. Not only in hybrid grappling skills but also as a person. Iam so greatful to have found blackflag and become part of the family. So I encourage you to come check us out.😁👍
Posted 4 years ago
Nicky Y
2021 has been such a rough year and has taken its toll on everyone but I began to notice a strong change in my 7 year old son. After doing some serious mom digging I found out that other kids where picking on him and that's when his Dad found BlackFlag. I wanted my child to defend his self and not just fight. I wanted him to know when & how to defend himself appropriately. Well it didn't take long (within 3 weeks) for him to learn how to defend himself. At this point I was all in, paid the whole year in full!!!! He had found the confidence to stand up for himself!!!!!! THANKS BKACK FLAG JIU-JITSU CLUB.......DEFEND is the key word, I love how they teach only to defend & not to pick on anyone or start random fights just because they can. I really appreciate everything they've taught him this far & Coach Nancy for calling on him and making him come out of his shell. Thanks Coach Gilbert for being tough and speaking the truth to the kidS (I know mine needs it LOL)
Posted 4 years ago
Brian Meza
The best place to bring your kids to learn grappling!! Would recommend a million times over!
Posted 5 years ago
Dolly Hanes
My teenage son was in a true funk for a few years it seemed. He was stuck on the computer for hours a day gaming. Then in the middle of May 2021, he said I want to box or wrestle or something. Gabriel was 7 months old when I adopted him and his siblings as a single parent, We have no other family out here. No adult figure I know trained in these skills. He researched on line and found Black Flag. The happiness and change I see within my son since I signed him up makes my heart swell! He found a second family there. The instructors are all amazing and he is constantly sharing stories with me. He even talked his close friend into joining. I thank God everyday he found Black Flag I also learned that yummy cake pops made by Nancy are all the incentive he needs to clean mats!
Posted 5 years ago
EarthToVee 18
As a 24 year old girl that watches a lot of true crime , I felt compelled in joining a self defense class for a while now .The way I found out about this place is because a coworker invited us to a fundamentals class he teaches on Saturday, oh btw did I mention that they offer a whole week as a free trial !! That’s nuts ! Of course I had to take advantage of that! I instantly fell in love with the sport. The environment in all the classes i attend are always upbeat and trust me you learn a lot ! I have never been so motivated in my life! I have seen so much growth in just a few weeks . The coaches are super helpful and will always show you ways to improve ! I 1000% recommend this establishment !
Posted 5 years ago
_Itz_ Mercedes_
I honestly really like this place a lot ! my mom enrolled my brother and I here last month (06/21) and it’s a blast. Everyone here is super welcoming, amazing and extremely helpful ! I struggle a lot with opening up to new places and people, especially with close contact sports, however with the way that everyone treated us, it made the transition so much smoother and nicer. Gilbert and Nancy are also super incredible btw ! they help my brother and I out and that’s something i truly appreciate. 173948/10 would recommend 🥳☝🏽
Posted 5 years ago
Jose Gamiz
This was my first experience with any kind of grappling art. I am so glad I came across Black Flag Jiu Jitsu Club. From the moment I walked in coach Nancy was very welcoming and made me feel at ease. It is not easy to start a martial art later in life. The coaches, specially Gilbert Olivas, is knowledgeable in several grappling arts and uses that knowledge to make everyone well rounded grapplers. This school works with all ages and skill level equally. Everyone is important. Every one is welcome. Love this place. I have found my tribe.
Posted 5 years ago
miranda sugar
I absolutely love this place! I enrolled my children 2 weeks ago and the individuals here have motivated them in every way possible including coming out of their comfort zone.
Posted 5 years ago
Sean Malone
I've been training at Black Flag for almost a year now and it's by far and away the best jiujitsu gym I've ever trained at. The coaches genuinely pour into their students and the team is super supportive and encouraging in growing your skills and techniques. Most importantly, is how family oriented the whole team is. It legitimately feels like my 2nd family.
Posted 5 years ago
Tanya Dehmer
Easy five stars! My teenage boys absolutely love training at Black Flag! It's really different from the other martial arts places they've previously trained at...the coaches at BFJJC are authentic, more hands on and what they teach actually seems applicable to real life situations, not just tournaments/belt graduations. My kids leave class both satisfied and inspired to practice and improve their skills. We love it!
Posted 5 years ago
Dimas Galaz
My Son Gos here ever scence he started going He has been Diciplined and Learn alot I'm glad we made the decision to Go with BFJJ
Posted 5 years ago
Dina Avelar
My Son' Gilbert Olivas is the founder and owner of 🖤 Blackflag is MC martial arts Jiu-Jitsu and martial arts self-defens .. I am very proud of that and I am very proud of him as well.
You're doing an absolute amazing job Mijo. I love you so much!
Posted 5 years ago
Rene Real
Great owner's , great training partner's and great environment to learn Jiu jitsu / Wrestling / Striking / Judo & wrap your week up with some Yoga ! I love this place ! Kids classes are available too !
Posted 5 years ago
Alex ch
Friendly people working hard and encouraging...
Posted 5 years ago
Anthony Mateos
I have been attending Black Flag for about a month now. I have never done any martial arts in my life. The first thing I noticed was the fantastic culture of the staff and the other students. The majority of the higher belts or more experienced students take the time to teach and grow you but at the same time make you put in some work. The whole club encourages you to keep getting better and not giving up. All of the instructors are passionate about sharing this discipline and are patient with new students like me.
I look forward to attending class every day. This is great if you are starting or have some experience. Give it a try!
Posted 5 years ago
Indiman 5k
Great place. I'm from out of town and dropped in. I received a warm welcome and was offered a loaner gi. The instruction was great and had a good workout. Professor Michelle is knowledgeable and worked with me. Thank you
Professor Gilbert for having me at your club.
Posted 5 years ago
Andrew Sullivan
Definitely the best Jiu Jitsu gym I've been to! The communication and explanation quality/detail is what sets them apart, with their acceptance of those new to the sport. There is a strong emphasis on safety and control. The instructors are top notch quality in knowledge and drive. Couldn't recommend it more to all skill and fitness levels! Give here a try if you are at all interested or just looking to get in shape!
Posted 5 years ago
Ryan Hayes
Gilbert is a fantastic coach. He will be tough on you when needed, and know when you've hit a wall. He will go over technique 10-15 times if you ask. He is very versatile in how he delivers technique. He will show you the best way to do a specific submission/take down and can also modify it to make it friendly to the bigger person. Being a bigger guy (300+ lbs) it is very informative knowing what is the safe way to execute technique in a different manner. If you have ever wanted to try wrestling and/or Jiu Jitsu I would recommend taking advantage of Gilbert's free week. Try it out, see if you like it or not. You may surprise yourself.
Posted 5 years ago
Saul Parra
I did a catch wrestling class a while ago in this spot. (which catch wrestling is not easy to find anywhere) However this gem in old town Glendale offered that and a variety of different martial arts. I only had the chance to meet two of the instructors Nancy and the owner Gilbert. Both were very cool and welcoming. Any BJJ or MMA enthusiasts should give this place a shot. You won’t regret it.
Posted 5 years ago
Kyle Wade
Very patient instructiors who genuinely what you to progress.
Posted 6 years ago
Lily Felix
Great location in downtown Glendale. Great instructors who team many forms of grappling.
Posted 6 years ago
L Owner
Both my kids attend Black Flag and both love the classes as do we! If we had the ability to be there everyday...we would! The coaches have a passion for what they do and it is evident in their teaching styles. Look out for these two children in the near future! Go BLACK FLAG!!!
Posted 6 years ago
Anthony hernandez
I have been met with open arms and feel blessed to have found black flag !!! Amazing training and the atmosphere is awesome!
Posted 6 years ago
David Anderson
My 1st experience at a combat sport/bjj . Must say am glad I found this place. It's very beginner friendly and full of talented, inspiring teammates and coaches. Definitely worth trying out at least once in your life.
Posted 6 years ago
Conner Goralski
Great atmosphere. Coach Gilbert is the man and is genuinely invested in the progression of his students. Everyone there will help you get better. Highly recommended.
Posted 6 years ago
Christopher Lopez
I’ve known coach Gilbert for years. He is a hard working individual who is very serious about his craft and takes pride and teaching others. He takes time with each student and helps create confidence and helps each student get better. If you’ve ever wanted to take a chance to learn Jiu-Jitsu this is the place to go! There’s room for everyone if it’s your first day or if your an established veteran. This is a perfect place to test and improve your skill!!
Posted 6 years ago
Guillermo Hernandez
Dope people. Welcomed me right in. Highly recommend!
Posted 6 years ago
Richie Bencic
Love the atmosphere! Have two kids just beginning and they love the classes, they are always asking when they can go back! Coach Mickey is very good at teaching fundamentals and always keeps the kids attention. With the smaller one that is very hard to do Lol! Big shot out to Black Flag!
Posted 6 years ago
Rich Felix
From day one at BlackFlag myself, wife, training partners, and entire team have been embraced by the head instructor and his entire coaching staff.
For many years we searched for a "grappling home" here in the valley and found it in BFJJC which was luckily only 2 miles away in Downtown Glendale.
BJJ, Submission Arts, and Catch Wrestling are all taught with expertise and at championship level for all ages! We could not be happier with our decision and time here! Do yourself a favor and take the same step! Veteran family owned and operated with a definite family atmosphere.
Posted 6 years ago
Pete Schneider
The coaching staff is very accepting to beginners and capable of training people of all skill levels including black belts of all degrees. Just added a weight room as well. Very clean.
Posted 6 years ago
Monique Negrete
Great place I love the vide 🖤
Posted 6 years ago
Johnathon Abril
Great place and great atmosphere! It doesn't feel like most gyms where everyone trys to gang up on the new people. Everyone is really nice and takes time to make sure you understand everything, i definitely recommend to anyone who is looking to start training! Great instructors!
Posted 6 years ago
Larry Benford
Black Flag is a great team!
They’re very supportive and treat you like family. I’ve been in Arizona for a year and I’m glad I found them.
If you’re into yoga or grappling check out Black Flag.
Posted 6 years ago
Alex K
Gilbert is able to teach anybody, is patient and cares about the progress his students makes. He makes everyone feel welcome. The quality of instruction is world class and would recommend it to anyone and everyone.
Posted 6 years ago
mike diffley
Great training facility with a very knowledgeable staff. Also, it’s a good family friendly atmosphere. Everyone at the gym is very welcoming. Also, the way Gilbert runs his classes are very laid back and easy to learn. I recommend this gym to any wanting to learn martial arts.
Posted 6 years ago
Jose Meza
Gilbert, Nancy, 2.0, Denise and the whole BF squad are amazing. Gilbert is pretty much a black belt in everything..dude is a BEAST! My 10 year old son trains here and loves this place. All the coaches and students are extremely friendly and helpful. There is a lot of Jiu-Jitsu gyms in the valley but this one is hands down the best one out here. 🤙🏼
Posted 6 years ago
Robert Orazi
I’m new to BJJ but the team and coaches at the Black Flag Jiu Jitsu Club are the best. They do great job explaining the techniques and going the appropriate speed for the class. Also my kids are in classes as well (4-7 y/o). They have made friends and are having a blast as well. If you have any interest in learning BJJ or getting your kids into a great sport with a great group take the time to stop by or give them a call.
Posted 6 years ago
Sean Broussard
Date: Dec. 27, 2017 to Present
Review for: Black Flag Jiu-Jitsu Club
Owner / Manager: Gilbert Olivas
Service: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu / Catch-Can Wrestling / MMA Grappling
Black Flag Jiu-Jitsu Club is Highly Recommended and Referred.
Coach Gilbert and Staff have the utmost courtesy, hospitality, and professionalism. They are on time, attentive, and diligent w/ their teachings of the various Grappling Arts. Their experience and knowledge are unmatched both on and off the mats.
Coach Gilbert is a great mentor and very technical in his BJJ skills and teachings. His passion and love for BJJ is not only reflected in his teachings but through his students as well. Great Academy and awesome camaraderie.
Thank you for the great experience and professional service.
Best regards,
Sean B.
Posted 6 years ago
Scott Vernon
In from out of state and stopped by for the Friday open mat. Got some rolls in and learned a lot. Dudes were very friendly and accommodating for my lack of expertise. Will definitely swing through again if I’m in their neck of the woods.
Posted 6 years ago
Ana Ramirez
Great team, Gilbert teaches his students excellent self-defense and discipline and respect towards his classmates. My children have little time practicing and I am pleased that they teach them and take care that they are not hurt in the learning process. Thank you Nancy for always answering my questions😊
Posted 7 years ago
erica hasslen
Great gym, great atmosphere, great team. Welcomed whether you're brand new or advanced.
Posted 7 years ago
Erika Sanchez
We brought my 7 year old bonus son here about 2 months ago. He loves it! Everyone is so friendly and welcoming. The coaches are great!
Posted 7 years ago
Sean Baker
Great spot to train. Very disciplined. I would recommend to anyone who is beginning jiu jitsu or highly advanced. Great work here
Posted 7 years ago
Randi Hilligas
We love Black Flag! A little over a year ago we walked in the door, having no idea what to expect and absolutely 0 knowledge of the sport. After 1 class, my 7 year old was hooked. He has transformed in front of my eyes into an incredibly fit and confident little boy and I can't wait to see what he ends up doing with this sport that he has fallen in love with. I had never heard of jiu jitsu when we walked in the door and Gilbert patiently answered all my questions when we joined. A little over a year later, this has become a family sport and myself and all my kids are involved. As a single mom, I find the community and support incredibly helpful. The kids coaches not only train and love on my kids but they will step in without hesitation if I'm having a discipline issue at home and back me up. As for me, I am 32 years old and have never trained in any martial art, so the idea of getting on the mat was incredibly intimidating. Once I finally took the step, I found myself having an absolute blast and surrounded by people who are, not only, willing and ready to help, but also more than happy to do so! If you are looking for a place to train for yourself, or looking for an outlet for your kids, I couldn't recommend this place enough. I love Black Flag so much, and I'm very thankful that we came across the gym at a time when my son very much needed some discipline and structure, and I was in need of a supportive community.
