Thomas Lyles

I have been training at RGN for a little over two years now and have nothing but great things to say about my experience. The coaches are all fantastic and super detailed in their instruction. While some gyms will just throw new students to the wolves, there is a focus on learning in a competitive but safe environment. I've visited a few other gyms since I started training and none of them come close to the level of comradery and instruction here.

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Posted 1 year ago

Antony Marcantoni

Shawn, thanks again for the high level training and hospitality. You have an amazing crew of polite and talented men and women. I look forward to visiting again.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Nikolai Yakovenko

Amazing gym. Incredible technique -- something you would expect from a Renzo Gracie gym -- and people could not possibly be nicer. Came in as a visitor and got the true southern hospitality treatment. Could not recommend enough.

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Posted 2 years ago

NYC Dapper Dan

I train at Renzo Gracie NYC - Upper West Side. Visiting Tennessee so I reached out to Renzo Gracie Nashville through the website. Carson replied back the next day. I came to the June 22nd, Saturday 10am Gi Class. Filled out the waiver. Took off my shoes and entered the mat area. At the other end of the mats, I was given a tour of the locker room and shower. To enter the bathroom, it is not allowed to be barefoot. I recommend bringing a second set of shoes not worn outside, like sandals. We learned the John Wayne Sweep that day. I immediately noticed great attention to small details like in when in bottom side control, getting back your elbow and forearm frames through small hip bumps. Technique 1: Bottom Side Control Escape to Half Guard Technique 2: John Wayne Sweep --> Top Half Guard Technique 3: Failed John Wayne Sweep --> Back Take What was interesting was instead of your partner doing two reps, then switching to the other partner doing two reps. RGN timed partner 1 for two minutes to continuously practice and then partner 2 had two minutes to continuously rep. After the techniques, we did two rounds of specific training (partner 1 taking the back, partner 2 taking the back). Then it was 5 minute rolls with different partners. The facility was very clean. Had three showers. Members were very friendly and when I was there, there were two other visitors, a black belt from Los Angeles and a blue belt from another state. Shawn Williams was not there that day, he may have been at WNO. Regardless, I had a great experience. I rolled with other purple and brown belts and no one was spazzy. They applied the submissions slow and really took care of each other. I would definitely return to train when back in the area. On Sunday, there is no official class on the schedule, but they invited me to come for open mat on Sunday at 10am I believe. I highly recommend checking out Renzo Gracie Nashville!

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Posted 2 years ago

adrianne ciuba

Was coming from NJ to visit Nashville and called beforehand to ask about drop ins to train BJJ. I spoke to PJ on the phone who was extremely welcoming and made me feel comfortable to train at the school all week just from a phone call. I dropped in 3 times during my visit and felt as if I already knew the people from their southern hospitality. The coaches were all professional and highly skilled, specifically Shawn Williams and Adriano. Will definitely return again when visiting nashville!!

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Posted 2 years ago

drew mycroft

Dropped in while I am visiting Nashville. Loved this gym! Mac is a great coach and made me feel welcome immediately. The members were welcoming as well. Be sure to give this gym a shot if you are new or visiting!

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Posted 2 years ago

Braden Harker

Dropped in for a visit will definitely return! Really enjoyed the instruction, students, and the rolls were fantastic!

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Joshua Higgs

Renzo Gracie Nashville is the best place to train in the state of Tennessee. The coaches are extremely knowledgeable and the students are helpful and encouraging. I switched gyms a little over 6 months ago and it was one of the best decisions I've ever made. If you want to dramatically increase your BJJ Skills, train Muay Thai, or be around a myriad of friendly people, this is the place to be. Shawn harbors a culture of hard work and respect. I walk in everyday knowing I'm going to receive fantastic training and be uplifted by everyone!

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Posted 2 years ago

Geof Vickers

I have been at RGN for the last 2 years. Without a doubt, the best BJJ in Nashville. Professor Shawn Williams has a wealth of knowledge and his love for BJJ and for teaching is evident in how he and his staff treat everyone. World class instruction in a great environment with great people.

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Posted 2 years ago

Rebecca Eiras

I have been going to jiu jitsu classes here for a couple years. Recently started going to the Muay Thai classes and am enjoying learning a new martial art. Pj is a knowledgeable coach who focuses on technique and helpful with beginners as well as the more experienced people in class. Everyone is friendly which makes for a great learning environment. Would recommend classes here to anyone.

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Posted 2 years ago

Burton Verner

My kids love training here. I see improvement in all aspects of their lives. They are more confident and capable than ever. It’s an amazing environment. Grateful for this place.

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Posted 2 years ago

Jorge Sandoval

Immersing myself in the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at Renzo Gracie Nashville has been an eye-opening experience. The school's approach to training is centered around honing technique and mastering the fundamentals. What truly impresses me is the level of detail the coaches delve into during each session. With a variety of classes offered, I've had the opportunity to absorb different techniques from multiple coaches. Whether it's a basic move or an advanced technique, the coaches are meticulous in breaking down each step, offering a deeper understanding that significantly improves execution. Moreover, the environment they've created fosters a genuine sense of camaraderie among practitioners. It's more than a school; it's a community that encourages everyone to excel together, regardless of skill level. The emphasis on refining fundamentals ensures a strong foundation. With a multitude of classes available, the school caters to various skill levels and schedules, creating an inclusive environment for learning and growth. Being part of Renzo Gracie Nashville and learning from their talented coaches has been a blessing. I highly recommend Renzo Gracie Nashville for anyone seeking not only to learn BJJ but to truly master the art with a focus on technique, attention to detail, and supportive coaching.

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Posted 2 years ago

Bri Fisk

P.J. McMahon leads the Muay Thai class and it is absolutely AMAZING! His coaching style and technique are to the next level and he breaks down the movements that even a beginner can understand easily. He motivates you to push yourself, but is also very understanding and encourages you to communicate if you aren't understanding something or just need a quick breather. After my first class, I immediately signed up for Unlimited Classes because it's a great way to clear your mind and break a sweat! Plus, he makes the class fun and you leave feeling like a better person!!

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Posted 2 years ago

Dustin Thomas

Great group of guys and gals here. Lance, Johnny, Mac and Jackson's BJJ classes are fantastic and adding PJ in the mix this year for Muay Thai has been such a treat.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Amanda Free

I’ve been a member for over two years at RGN and have loved every second. It is by far the best Jiu Jitsu in Nashville. Shawn Williams is extremely dedicated to teaching all he knows about Jiu Jitsu. It is an honor being able to learn under him and the rest of the instructors! I recently started the Muay Thai program…yaaaay PJ! Between the positive attitudes, knowledge, and patience, you will love the community here!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Nicholas Imkamp

As a recent attendee of the Muay Thai program at Renzo Gracie Nashville, I am thoroughly impressed and highly recommend it to anyone interested in martial arts, regardless of their skill level. The standout feature of this program is the instructor, PJ, whose expertise and teaching style truly set this gym apart. PJ's exceptional skill in Muay Thai is evident from the first class. What makes him an outstanding instructor, however, is his ability to cater to a diverse range of students, from complete beginners to advanced practitioners. He has a unique talent for breaking down complex techniques into understandable segments, making the learning process both enjoyable and effective. The classes are well-structured, beginning with a warm-up that not only prepares the body for the session but also teaches fundamental movements essential to Muay Thai. This is followed by a mix of technique drills, pad work, and sparring sessions, all conducted in a safe and supportive environment. PJ's attention to detail is commendable. He gives personalized feedback to each student, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their level, is constantly improving. His passion for Muay Thai and teaching is palpable, creating an atmosphere that is both challenging and inspiring. Another highlight of the program is the sense of community at Renzo Gracie Nashville. The more experienced students are always willing to help newcomers, fostering a team spirit that enhances the learning experience. In conclusion, the Muay Thai program at Renzo Gracie Nashville, led by PJ, is a top-notch training experience. It offers a perfect blend of technical training, physical conditioning, and a supportive community. Whether you're looking to start your martial arts journey or take your skills to the next level, this program is an excellent choice.

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Posted 2 years ago

Steven De La Torre

Their new Muay Thai program makes it possible to learn multiple facets of martial arts. Coach PJ does a fantastic job of going around and making sure each student understands the technique, and that everyone is executing the technique safely all while making sure you get a good sweat. His pool of knowledge is large and you can expect to leave with a new combo each class.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Joe Torres

I love this place, Professor Williams and Coach PJ are the best dynamic of coaches and mentors for anyone looking to improve not only in martial arts but in life as well. As someone who is a native of the area and has trained at all the facilities simply put there is no better place to be at!

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Posted 2 years ago

Scott Sveslosky

Love training at RGN. Johnny is great for group classes and private training. Has helped improve my BJJ significantly. Always has a solution when I get stuck and infinite patience. Incredibly grateful 🙏🏼

Instructors Classes

Posted 2 years ago

Jeremy Durham

Excellent instruction at this gym. Have been to several martial arts studios and this place easily has the most impressive instructors. Johnny and Lance are amazing !! Many other great instructors too!! Shawn Williams is a BJJ genius and Nashville is very lucky to have him. The culture here is extremely positive and helpful and the facility is very clean!!

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Jenna Wiley

RGN is hands down the best Jiu jitsu gym in Nashville. I’ve been a member for over two years and have loved every second. The instructors are knowledgeable, encouraging, and so friendly. Learning Jiu Jitsu from Shawn Williams is second to none and he’s extremely dedicated to passing on all of his knowledge. I typically go to Johnny’s Tuesday/Thursday classes, he’s the best and most encouraging coach you can ask for! The recently added Muay Thai program (shout out to PJ) added just another facet of what makes this place so great. Between the members’ camaraderie and coaching staff, you’ll feel right at home.

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Posted 2 years ago

Gicela Carrera

Professor Shawn Williams is the kind ❤️ man .He let my twins train for free while they waited for their work permit. Thanks so much, and God bless you .They will return soon. Jeremy and Denaro 😀

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Amanda Louise

I had the opportunity to have one on one lessons with Coach Shawn’s black belt, Lance Martin. I improved more in those six months than I did in the previous three years training. Coach Lance is professional and has an excellent understanding of the necessary details that make for a world class Jiujitsu game.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Andrew Walker

(Drop in) Best BJJ in Nashville hands down. Shawn has built an academy that has the highest level instruction, friendliest knowledge sharing community, and one of the cleanest gyms around. On top of that if you know anything about BJJ Shawn has been at ground zero for the evolution and revolution of BJJ in the US since the beginning and it shows from the moment you walk in the front door.

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Posted 2 years ago

Oliver Andrist

Renzo Gracie Nashville Is a awsome Place to train BJJ and Muay Thai! I started BJJ 2012 under Professor Shawn Williams in his Academy in Los Angeles! I wrote him, I would like to come over to visit his new Academy and for me it seems I never left his Training Hall! In my whole Martial Arts career I never found a more welcoming Gym like the Gym who is running by Professor Shawn Williams! It feels I never left, he created again a wonderful Team and wish him all the best to grow his New Academy! For me the best BJJ Team!!! Kind regards Oliver Andrist

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Posted 2 years ago

ryan goins

BJJ Practitioner visiting family in the area.Professor Williams is a legend so I had to check out his school.Every thing I have expected plus some.All around awesome experience.Great Location,Great Instructors,Clean Mats, Clean Changing Rooms, and Clean Showers.

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Posted 3 years ago

Jlrobbs

Best place to train in Nashville!

Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Trinity Sebranek

Epic place to go no matter where you are in your jiujitsu game. Had the pleasure to learn from Johnny in a no gi class. Everyone was super welcoming and gave me hard rolls. Definitely makes a 10/10 review.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Jacob Waugh

Stopped in for the noon class on my way through town and had a good time. Cool format, clean facility and great instruction. Mac and everyone there were welcoming and helpful.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

David Dilts.

RGN got the juice. The best mix of competitors and hobbyists trying to get better everyday with exceptional instruction and a super welcoming atmosphere. Shout out to professor Shawn for cultivating such a positive culture of safety, inclusion and positivity here in Nash.

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Posted 3 years ago

Andrew Hope

Exceptional Jiu Jitsu with exceptional people of all different levels.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 4 years ago

Joshy Garami

I stopped in for a class while in town for a conference. Shawn, Mac and everyone at the academy were very welcoming and helpful. I suggest you check out Renzo Gracie Nashville if you’re in the area or even just passing through.

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Posted 4 years ago

F B

Shawn Williams probably one of if not the best instructor in the world. Proud to finally join this team. Thank you to all the people there and of course to you Professor for supporting 🙏

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Posted 4 years ago

Troy Pugh

Dropped in while visiting Nashville for work. Really nice facility, great instruction and a super friendly staff. I will definitely train here again whenever I am in Nashville!

Instructors Facility

Posted 4 years ago

Dr. Jason Crist

Shawn Williams is not only a master in BJJ but an excellent instructor. His communication and teaching methods are next level. In fact, all of the instructors there are very knowledgeable, friendly and welcoming. Very great experience!

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 5 years ago

Lance Martin

Shawn Williams is known as the jiu jitsu encyclopedia, and for good reason. Being one Renzo Gracie’s first 10 American black belts, Shawn knows the Renzo curriculum inside and out, and has innovated and created some of his own positions and techniques. In addition to his jiu jitsu being world class, Shawn is an excellent teacher, and does a great job explaining techniques, and how to connect them. A serious treat to have him teaching in Nashville.

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Posted 5 years ago

David Barnes

Renzo Gracie Nashville provides world-class instruction in a beautiful facility with an incredibly welcoming atmosphere. This place is amazing!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 5 years ago

Carson Thigpen

I love Renzo Gracie Nashville. It is truly an honor to have such high quality, top tier instruction day in and day out. My game feels like it’s been taken to new levels, and Professor Shawn really creates an amazing foundation, for all of his students, to build on and create their own paths. I’m so excited for the future and to see the plans for this academy moving forward.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 5 years ago

Russell Bracey

The facility is very nice. Shawn Williams is a phenomenal instructor. We go over great techniques in class and have question and answer segments often. Shawn watches the rolling and offers coaching during rolling and gives feedback and coaching after rounds often. Then the atmosphere is amazing as well. Come try us out! You’ll be glad you did.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 5 years ago

Andrew Fawley

Started going to Renzo Gracie Jiu Jitsu about three weeks ago when my friend that does Jiu Jitsu came into town. Automatically fell in love with it. Shawn Williams is One of the best and explains things so well. If you want to learn, get in shape and be a better person all around you should definitely come check this place out!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 5 years ago

Joann Nguyen

Shawn Williams is a great instructor and the students are super friendly. A great place for your jiu jitsu journey. I highly recommend this school.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 5 years ago

Jeremy Romero

Professor Shawn Williams is absolutely one of the best instructors in BJJ today. A tactician, an encyclopedia, a technical guru, he will help guide you, and the work you put in, to perfection. There is no such thing as minutia, everything is done for, and with, a purpose. Professor is very in tune with each and every student and can help you focus on fundamentals or refine high level technique. Whether you're just starting your BJJ journey or already a seasoned veteran, this is the place for BJJ in the States. Even though I reside in SoCal, I'll make the trek as many times as I can.

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Posted 5 years ago

Scott Nakamura

A lifelong martial artist, Professor Williams is by far one of the best instructors in the game with an encyclopedic amount of grappling and martial arts knowledge. His detail oriented & passionate approach to teaching is second to none.

Instructors

Posted 5 years ago

jessica arabi

Professor Shawn Williams is hands down the best BJJ high level instructor in the world. He is encouraging and attentive to all his students individual goals. I highly recommend Renzo Gracie Nashville.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 5 years ago

Thomas Lim

I am very envious of the city of Nashville. Professor Shawn Williams is a walking encyclopedia of BJJ. I used to train under him at his previous gym in LA and I can’t say enough good things about him. His attention to detail is second to none.

Instructors

Posted 5 years ago

Vikki Chan

Great gym, professional, quality teaching by Shawn Williams who is not only a great bjj coach, but a really friendly one too.

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Posted 5 years ago

REI REAL ESTATE

Shawn Williams is the best BJJ instructor. I started BJJ training under Shawn Williams on 2003.Super nice !!!! Highly recommend.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 5 years ago

villalma88

Professor Shawn Williams provides top tier instruction in jiu jitsu. He is one of the best instructors is able to help tailor each of his students individual games for what works best for them. He always creates a welcoming environment at his academies and creates a very team oriented environment for his students.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 5 years ago

Zack Hellman

Renzo Gracie Nashville is one of the premiere places to learn BJJ. Professor Shawn Williams is truly remarkable. His knowledge of jiu jitsu is like no other and I have watched him transform his students of all levels and backgrounds, including myself! You are lucky to have such an amazing teacher and I know this school will thrive for many years to come. Can't recommend more highly.

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Posted 5 years ago

Jamie Kim

Shawn the owner is one of the best teachers in the world when it comes to Brazilian Jujitsu. He creates an environment to make all levels feel welcome. Renzo Gracie Nashville is a safe environment for everyone to learn and grow.

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Posted 5 years ago

Joe Dockery

Renzo Gracie Nashville is the ideal place to train jiu jitsu. Professor Shawn Williams is an absolute gem, among the most knowledgeable and experienced instructors in the world, a family man, and a leader among leaders. Regardless of what your goals are with jiu jitsu and martial arts, if you have the opportunity to learn from Shawn and his team, you absolutely have to take it. #lifechanger

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Posted 5 years ago

Roy Rodriguez

I've trained with Shawn Williams when he was in LA. Very professional, knowledgeable and friendly. Renzo Gracie Nashville has the best instructor. If you're familiar with Jiu Jitsu or a complete newbie, I highly recommend Renzo Gracie Nashville.

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Posted 5 years ago

Kiza Brunner

Great facility, amazing instructors, BJJ family- top notch!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 5 years ago

Adam Arola

Professor Shawn Williams is one of the best Brazilian Jiu Jitsu coaches in the world. He’s trained everyone from MMA legends like Georges St. Pierre to people like myself who aren’t natural athletes. His unique skills as both a practitioner and teacher of the art can elevate anyone, anywhere on that continuum to their athletic and technical best. I was lucky enough to receive my black belt from Professor Williams last year and just as much as I appreciate his talents as a martial artist, I truly thank him for his ability to create a sense of family and community amongst his students. If you’re looking for a place to train, whether it’s you’re very first day or you’re already a seasoned brown belt, you’ll find no one better. Nashville is lucky to have him.

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Posted 5 years ago

J SK

Professor Shawn Williams is straight up a living legend and a true martial artist. Seriously one of the best and most sought after BJJ and MMA instructors without question. While he taught us in Los Angeles, I can't tell you how many times I've seen famous people, fans, competitors, students, and fighters from all over the world drop in or drive for hours just to sit in one of his classes or even hope to chat with him. Not only is his technical knowledge and skill beyond imaginable, he has the heart, ability, and passion that goes with it. Every class will blow your mind as he understands and teaches BJJ from all levels and every angle including wrestling, judo, MMA, shoot boxing, and much more. Plus, he sets up the most incredible seminars with his old training partners and friends such a John Danaher, Gordon Ryan, Warren Stout, and the list goes on. Still severely miss his classes whenever I review or watch high level matches that he also live comments on. Really, there is nothing in the Jiu Jitsu community around the globe that he is not a part of or hasn't experienced. Spend a month training with him and guarantee you will never want to stop learning from him. Moreover, you'll be shocked at your growth consistently over time as he encourages you to be a better version of yourself each and every time you step on and off that mat.

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Posted 5 years ago

John Ma

The best in the world now lives in Nashville

Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 5 years ago

Renzo Gracie Nashville Jiu Jitsu

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