Gracie Barra Cibolo Brazilian Jiu-jitsu & Self Defense

“Professor Zaza is truly an amazing Professor. He has taught both of our kids for the past 3 years! His skills and knowledge on the mats are super amazing. He takes the time to get to know and understand your kids and shows up for them. Our kids will forever remember all his moves he has taught them and the metals they have won together. We are truly sad he has to leave our academy, but whoever gets to have him as their professor is in good hands and will learn to be the best they can be. Thank you for all you have done for Lacy & Grayson!”

“We were incredibly fortunate to have had Professor Zaza at the Westside Gracie Barra Jiu-Jitsu Academy for 17 years. Throughout his time with us, he has not only proven to be an exceptional instructor but also a strong competitor himself. His commitment to the core principles of Gracie Barra Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has left a lasting impact on our community. Our boys trained with Professor Zaza 5 to 6 times a week for two years, starting with no prior experience. Under his expert guidance, they have grown into strong and confident competitors in local, regional, and national tournaments. His competition classes are unparalleled, providing excellent training for everyone, from young competitors to adults. His holistic approach to teaching, which goes beyond just physical training, has helped students grow both on and off the mat. What truly sets Professor Zaza apart is his ability to connect with every student. He finds ways to reach each individual, understanding their unique needs and challenges, and helps them not only become better BJJ practitioners but better human beings. His dedication to the personal development of his students is unmatched, and under his guidance, they truly embody the Gracie Barra philosophy of "Jiu-Jitsu for Everyone." While we will miss having him at Westside GBJJ, we wish him all the best as he continues his career at the Cibolo GBJJ in San Antonio, TX. Those in San Antonio are lucky to have him as part of their community, and we have no doubt that he will continue to inspire and elevate his students to new heights.”

“I started Jiu-jitsu at Gracie Barra Westside because my girlfriend was already training there. I fell in love with the sport immediately and started to compete, travel, and visit other locations. It was only then that I realized how fortunate we were to have a professor like Zaza. He created an environment that could facilitate all levels and empower individuals with different journeys and goals. We had people training two days a week and others training to become world champions. He proved to be a great mentor with the tremendous knowledge of jiu-jitsu, the wisdom to coach, and the spirit of a champion. It has been 2.5 years since I started and because of all the sport has to offer I brought numerous friends and family in to try it. They have loved it. One friend lost 60 pounds. Most recently, my daughter and my son-in-law both got their first stripe, and my granddaughter got her first stripe on her grey belt. Three generations are happy and healthy because jiu-jitsu. Thank you, Gracie Barra, and thank you, Zaza.”

“If you get the opportunity to train under Professor Zaza, do it!! He is an amazing coach with a wealth of Jiu Jitsu knowledge and great rapport with his students. He has a gift for understanding what motivates his students and truly gets to know the kids and their individual personalities. My daughters not only respected him, but enjoyed his classes and considered him a friend. They were able to learn so much about hard work, technique, team work, and skill from Professor Zaza. It is bittersweet to see him go, but Gracie Barra Cibolo is lucky to have him!”

“Professor Zaza is an exceptional Jiu Jitsu instructor who brings out the best in every student. His leadership and welcoming attitude create an environment where everyone feels at home, regardless of their experience level. Zaza’s teaching not only imparts the technical skills needed to excel in Jiu Jitsu but also helps build confidence in every student. Whether your goal is to compete at a high level or simply learn the art of Jiu Jitsu, Zaza is the best instructor you could ask for. His ability to connect with students and tailor his teaching to individual needs is unmatched. From the moment you step on the mat, Zaza’s passion for Jiu Jitsu and dedication to his students are evident. Training under Zaza is more than just learning Jiu Jitsu; it’s about becoming part of a community that supports and uplifts each other. I highly recommend Professor Zaza to anyone looking to grow, both as a martial artist and as a person.”