Rivalry Jiu-Jitsu Academy

761 E Barstow Ave, Fresno, CA 93710, USA

5.0 (51 reviews)

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Gi Self-Defense

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Adults Classes Black Belt Instruction

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A Jiu Jitsu Academy out of Fresno California, providing instruction for kids and adults. We are a community of individuals passionate about personal growth, self-improvement, and the transformative power of Jiu Jitsu.

https://www.rivalryjiujitsu.com/

(559) 492-7832

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Reviews from Jiu-Jitsu Blog members who have trained at Rivalry Jiu-Jitsu Academy. Member recommendations raise an academy's Jiu-Jitsu Blog Score.

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Jennie Vang

Rivalry jiu-jitsu is my daughter's favorite place. She started jiu-jitsu about 2 months ago and loves everything about it along with the coaches and her new friends.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Gabeburg

My favorite gym whenever I visit the Central Valley! Very fun and good family atmosphere. Coach Vic is always more than welcoming to anybody who comes in to train. No matter the skill level, there is a class level for you. Would highly recommend this gym to anybody who is looking to train in the art of Brazilian jiu jitsu to come stop by here and check it out. Looking forward to my next visit. Oss 🤙

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Brandon Smith

Great training. High class gym and instructor. Dropped in for a no-gi sparring class while travelling. Got some great rolls in. Will definitely be back and I highly recommend Rivalry Jiu Jitsu if you are in the Fresno area. I messaged Victor before my trip and told him I wanted to drop in, he was very welcoming and responsive.

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Jake Noble

I stopped in for an evening No-Gi class at 6:30 PM while in town on a work trip. I was staying at a hotel around the corner and reached out to the owner, Victor, about a week and a half before my trip to get drop-in details. He responded immediately, and after a brief text exchange, I filled out the waiver via DocuSign. When I arrived, Victor and the students greeted me warmly, making me feel welcome right away. Every gym has its own training style and intensity, and Rivalry Jiu Jitsu definitely has a family-like atmosphere. This particular class was not competition-based, which was perfect for what I was looking for—just some solid No-Gi rounds in a welcoming environment. If you’re ever in Fresno and need a place to train, I’d highly recommend stopping by!

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
T S

Just a great place to roll. Super welcoming and excellent instruction. Victor is a great instructor and really nice guy. Will certainly be back!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Ian Williams

If you're looking for a jiu-jitsu gym that feels like family, where you can get choked out by people who actually like you, then Rivalry is the place to be. My kids train here, I train here, and at this point, if my dog could do an armbar, he'd probably be signed up too. Coach Vic is the fearless leader of our squad, keeping my kids in check while also making sure I don’t embarrass myself too much on the mats. Everyone at Rivalry is all about getting better—no egos, no nonsense, just hard work and great vibes. The savages who train here push you, support you, and sometimes crush you in the most respectful way possible. It’s the ultimate "iron sharpens iron" environment, which is a fancy way of saying you will leave every class sore but smarter. If you want to learn jiu-jitsu, get in shape, and have a blast doing it, Rivalry is the place to be. Five stars, two tired kids, and one exhausted dad. Did I mention the gym is basically an art gallery. Oh, and it's also ALWAYS super clean. OOOOOossssssss

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Posted 1 year ago
Khlessy Salama

Head coach is a stud and continues to compete. More importantly to me, he keeps up with the evolution of jiu jitsu and uses it to inform his instruction. Good rolls here for sure. There are a good amount of higher level belts that train here that love to teach resulting in a friendly, yet productive atmosphere. There are also quite a bit of class times available, starting from 6am classes to 7:30 pm classes. Its 10 minutes further from me since the location change, but its worth it to me when considering all things.

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Henry Samudio

If you’re looking for a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu gym with an incredible culture and top-notch coaching, this is the place! My daughter and I both train here, and it’s more than a gym—it’s family. The environment is positive, welcoming, and supportive, no matter your skill level. Coach Victor is an amazing coach who breaks down techniques clearly and pushes you to grow, both on and off the mats. My daughter loves it just as much as I do, and it’s been amazing to share this journey together. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced, this gym is the perfect place to train, learn, and connect. Highly recommend!

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Posted 1 year ago
Dick De Leon

Rivalry Jiu Jitsu is hands down one of the best academies I’ve ever trained at! Victor, the owner, is not only an incredible instructor but also an active competitor, which adds so much value to the training environment. His firsthand experience on the competition mats translates into high-level techniques and practical advice that’s incredibly effective. What really sets Rivalry apart is the vibe Victor has created. The atmosphere is welcoming, yet you can feel the passion and drive in everyone who trains here. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned practitioner, there’s a place for you in this community. Victor's ability to balance intense training sessions with a supportive environment is unmatched. If you’re looking for a place to learn, grow, and challenge yourself in jiu-jitsu, Rivalry Jiu Jitsu is it. Highly recommend checking it out! 👊🔥has truly cr

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Posted 1 year ago
Michael Clark

Excellent Jiu Jitsu academy. I have trained here for a number of years. Here is what sets Rivalry apart from many other schools/academies in my humble opinion: family owned and operated with a welcoming and friendly environment, the owner teaching the majority of the classes (qualified higher ranking belts teaching in his rare absence), great instruction with instructors that travel to train and stay up to date on the latest changes in Jiu Jitsu, competition training for those wanting competitions (but not mandatory), clean facility with showers.

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Posted 1 year ago
Kita Allen

My daughter and I have been training at Rivalry for almost 3 years now and we have had nothing short of a great experience at this gym. Coach Victor is such a great teacher. He has so much patience and takes the time to make sure that we understand everything. There are so many class times to choose from to accommodate everyone’s busy schedules with beginners classes all the way to advanced, Gi and NoGi. The gym is always clean and there are men and women’s locker rooms with showers, and bathrooms. If you’re looking to train Jiu Jitsu this is the place to be.

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Posted 1 year ago
forrest smith

Highly recommend Rivalry if you've been thinking of giving BJJ a try. There is a diverse skill set among the students. If you're new, you won't be the only one, and if you're experienced, you'll find plenty of competitive sparring. Victor fosters a welcoming, fun, and clean environment.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Ashley Dennis

Both of my kids take classes at Rivalry and we love it there! Such an amazing community and space. Love that my kids are not only learning jiu jitsu but how to be better humans as well, all while having fun :)

Facility Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
William Dennis

Rivalry is an amazing place to learn the art of jiu jitsu, but even more it is such an amazing community of humans helping each other grow and become better humans.

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Posted 1 year ago
T-S White

Rivalry is an amazing community of grapplers from all avenues of life. Great instructors that teach morning and night classes. Great for solo training or for the whole family.

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Posted 1 year ago
Shawn williams

A friend recommended Rivalry Jiu Jitsu to me and it’s been nothing but great. So many cool people and a welcoming atmosphere.

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Posted 1 year ago
Matt White

We started training here after having a lackluster experience at another gym in town. We had tried out Rivalry but ended up somewhere else because it was cheaper and seemed "good enough." We ended up coming back to Rivalry because it was just that much better. Coach Victor attracts good people to his gym -- people who are encouraging, kind, positive and family-oriented. We took a few years off and came back -- this time with much more consistency. My son and I have been coming about 3 days/week for the last couple of years and really enjoy the coaching and positive atmosphere. On top of that, the place is clean and has good locker rooms with showers in case you need to go somewhere immediately after class. I've chatted a bit with other coaches in town and I think most of them run fine programs. But Rivalry is where we feel most at home. Victor and the Rivalry crew provide a great place to get started in BJJ or really develop your game in a welcoming place. Highly recommend!

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Posted 1 year ago
Derek Pavlovich

If you are in the fresno area inquiring about a jiu jitsu gym or thinking about trying it out for the first time, this is the place to be. Elevated mats, clean facility including separate Men’s and Women’s locker rooms (with showers), and the presentation is amazing with art displayed throughout the gym. Family friendly and the staff is kind and inviting. Did i mention the Coaches and their curriculum is grade A TECHNICAL jiu jitsu. 10/10

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Jaden Gomez

This place is amazing. It’s the perfect BJJ gym. Everyone is great there and the coach is the best. I’ve been going here for almost 2 years now, and not one bad experience, every day is a learning day and encourages me to keep on striving.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Sophia Cuaron-Villa

Great gym! My husband, young son and myself all train. We have been apart of this gym for 6 years now. Coach Victor has created a perfect environment to train and grow and the proof is in the retention of the gym members. Many different opportunities to train during the week to meet your schedule. BegInners, Intermediate and Comp class available. Clean gym, separate men and women locker room with showers, elevated mat and something you will also notice is the amount of women that train here, which speaks volumes. 100% family friendly. A safe environment BUT definitely with a competitive edge!! If you’re thinking of starting this sport then this is where you want to be.

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Posted 1 year ago
Jaime C

Best jujitsu around Fresno! Great professor, great members, and such diversity! Myself, my wife, and son all train! Elevated mats is a game changer!

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Nicolas Lopez

Amazing gym, family friendly environment. Amazing curriculum for beginners, intermediate, and advanced practitioners. Extremely clean establishment and safe. All instructors are top notch. Best gym in Fresno for hobbyists and competitors alike.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Mubeen Kamani

Today I visited Rivalry Jiu-Jitsu in Fresno, California, during a weekend work trip, and it was an excellent experience! I checked their schedule online and decided to drop in for a class. From the moment I arrived, Coach Victor and the team were extremely friendly and welcoming. The atmosphere was very inviting, and everyone went out of their way to make me feel at home. The gym itself is clean and well-maintained, with spacious locker rooms that add to the overall comfort. They offer both Gi and no-Gi classes, including intermediate fundamentals, making it a great place for practitioners of all levels. If you’re local to Fresno, this is a gym you should absolutely check out. And if you’re just visiting like I was and want a great workout while you’re in town, Rivalry Jiu-Jitsu is the place to go. Highly recommended!

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Matthew Guffey

Recently stopped in at Rivalry Jiu Jitsu to train with an old friend/training partner with whom I used to train in San Jose. The community/atmosphere are super welcoming and the rolls are super tough--all of which is a direct reflection of how the owner and head coach Victor carries himself. Great people, great vibes, great rolls. Whether you're passing through or live in Fresno and are looking for a place to train--this is the spot. Check them out!

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Eric Villarama

Visiting Fresno for a week, and my cousin invited me here where he trains. I was able to attend 5 classes and the quality and culture is of the highest level. The facility is super clean, with artwork designed and painted by the professor himself! Make sure to ask him about the art, as they tie directly to his life, jui jitsu and movement. They've got the water dispenser, clean locker room, bathrooms and shower. Last but not least, professor's instructions are made in such a way anyone can learn not just techniques, but the concepts on WHY you move the way you move. It's a great balance between technique and ecological training which I find valuable. Rivalry will be my go to whenever I'm in town now. Thank you professor, Sean, Caleb, Chet, Mike, my cousin and others I was able to roll with and learn from. I highly recommend this academy if you're looking to pick up jiu jitsu as a hobby or if you're thinking of competing.

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Posted 2 years ago
Andrea Contreraz

My normally shy/timid 7 year old loves coming to Rivalry. Coach Vic and everyone else are great with the kiddos and they make it fun while still showing proper technique, discipline and respect. It’s such a welcoming and fun environment and I love seeing my little one gain more and more confidence.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
yvette villa

Great jiu jitsu gym! It is Very welcoming and inviting community. I’ve learned so much in the past 3 months since I’ve started!

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Posted 2 years ago
Michael Ting

10/10 Jiu Jitsu Gym. Whether you want to learn the basics, test your skills in competition, or find a new hobby, this is the gym to go to. I came from a previous gym with bad ethics, and was nervous to try this gym at first. I was welcomed with open arms as is, and have been training here for over two years now. The people here are great, they will teach you good clean jiu jitsu, and have become very good friends as well. Thank you Victor for the dedication you put into Jiu Jitsu, and providing a safe environment for the community! 🤙🏽

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
S M

This gym welcomed me with open arms and gave me the opportunity to find a new hobby and passion when I needed it the most. Victor, the coach, is fantastic with all skill levels and along with the whole team, he will help you build your skill and comfort with the challenges of jiu jitsu. The gym culture is very balanced and everyone there is kind and giving with their time and mentoring. If you are looking for a new workout routine, looking to lose some weight, trying to learn some self-defense and survival skills, or simply are interested in jiu jitsu, this gym has it all. Victor has a flexible schedule which provides good windows of time to train for a variety of daily routines. I was initially very worried about being out of shape or heavyset, but the gym has a range of athleticism and body types represented. I’d encourage you to message the gym and to come for trial-you will find a warm reception and excellent learning environment.

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Posted 3 years ago
Antonio Corella

Can't explain how great of a place and family feel youbget walking through those doors to start your Jiu-jitsu Journey

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Posted 3 years ago
Irving 520

Best place in fresno to learn Jiu-jitsu. Family environment with the high level education

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Posted 3 years ago
Yollies Artistic Life

I've had a wonderful experience & also learning. Coach is great. My children & I all go there. Respectful environment 👌

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Posted 3 years ago
Ana Rocha

Great place if you wanna learn the TRUE Jiu Jitsu!

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Posted 4 years ago
Noman Naqvi

Great place if you wanna learn Jiu Jitsu!

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Posted 4 years ago
Angelo Laberinto

Awesome gym. Great environment full of encouragement all the while showcasing lots of knowledge, skill, and dedication from all members.

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Posted 6 years ago
Philipp Imbusch

5Stars! Rivalry is a great spot - the community and location is welcoming and it’s a great space to practice and hone your skills. Victor was very welcoming to my wife and me, traveling though Fresno. Will definitely go again!

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 8 years ago
Thuy Le

My husband has lost 50lbs in the last 7 months heavily due in part of him attending Rivalry Jiu Jitsu. A great place for losing weight and learning an art. Give it a try.

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Posted 8 years ago
Recycle Binh

As a first time martial arts practitioner Rivalry Jiu Jitsu has been very accomdating for my lack of experience. Coach Victor style of teaching is very well balanced and has helped me in my path through Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. The RJJ team has also been very beneficial through my progression. The other students have been very welcoming and helpful. No egos here! Coach offers a free one week trial to anyone who would like to test the waters. Coach Victor won’t be pushy about you singing up. He will, however, explain to you how and what he can offer you through learning BJJ from him.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 8 years ago