Why did you start BJJ?

I started while I was training Muay Thai. The gym I belonged to at the time had a BJJ program but I really wasn’t interested. One day I just decided to try a no-gi class and have been hooked ever since.

How long ago?

Around 2008(ish)

What are the 3 most important things BJJ has taught you?

  • Keep calm under pressure
  • Stay humble
  • Keep a clean gi

What do you enjoy about teaching?

I teach fundamentals. I love seeing my students progressing in the art and reaching their goals.

What is your outside profession?

Outside of BJJ I am a graphic designer, and I also run a small hand-painted sign shop out of my house.

Goals for the future?

Paint signs full time and maybe run a BJJ school.

Finish this sentence: If I knew then what I know now about BJJ, I would…

… have wrestled and started training when I was a lot younger.

If you could meet anyone in the world/history, who would it be and what would you ask them?

My grandfather on my mom’s side. Don’t know what questions specifically but I would just like to chat with him for a while and hear stories about his journey to this country from the Philippines.

What is your favorite candy/bar and why?

SKOR Bar – Toffee covered in Chocolate. Simple and right to the point

What other information would you like people to know about you?

I am available for private lessons, as well as graphics and signs—contact me at cartagenadesign.com