About Morris Self Defense - Martial Arts - Jiu-Jitsu - Knoxville
Welcome to Morris Self Defense - Martial Arts - Jiu-Jitsu - Knoxville, where we are dedicated to providing the highest quality Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training in a supportive, family-friendly environment. Our mission is to empower students of all ages and skill levels through the art of BJJ, fostering physical fitness, mental resilience, and personal growth.
Our Philosophy
At Morris Self Defense - Martial Arts - Jiu-Jitsu - Knoxville, we believe that Jiu-Jitsu is more than just a martial art—it's a way of life. Our approach combines technical excellence with practical application, ensuring that our students develop skills that work both on and off the mats.
Whether you're looking to compete at the highest levels, learn self-defense, or simply get in the best shape of your life, our expert instructors are here to guide you every step of the way.
Meet Our Instructors

John Smith
Head Coach - Black Belt
15+ years of experience competing at the highest levels.

Maria Rodriguez
Kids Program Director - Brown Belt
Specializes in teaching children of all ages and abilities.

David Chen
Competition Coach - Black Belt
Multiple-time IBJJF champion with a focus on competitive training.
Class Schedule
We offer a variety of classes for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Join us at a time that works for your schedule!
Membership Options
Invest in your health, fitness, and self-defense skills with our flexible membership options. Join our community today and start your Jiu-Jitsu journey!
Basic
Perfect for beginners looking to start their Jiu-Jitsu journey.
- Unlimited Fundamental Classes
- Access to Open Mat Sessions
- Free Uniform (Gi)
- Monthly Progress Assessments
Premium
Our most popular option with full access to all classes and amenities.
- Unlimited Access to All Classes
- Access to Open Mat Sessions
- Free Uniform (Gi) + Rashguard
- Monthly Progress Assessments
- Competition Training
- One Private Lesson Per Month
Family
Train together as a family with our comprehensive package.
- Access for 2 Adults + 2 Children
- Unlimited Access to All Classes
- Free Uniforms (Gi) for All Members
- Monthly Progress Assessments
- Competition Training
- Discounted Private Lessons
Other Options
What Our Students Say
Hear from our community about how training at our academy has impacted their lives.
Isabella Pfeiffer
"Chris and his team are amazing. Class is always fun and he prioritizes the self defense aspect in a lot of things we do. Another big point is that he ensures that everyone gets to train without fear of getting inured or hurt. This is a fantastic Dojo to get your self defense/martial arts game going or like I did re-started after a long break."
Geomo
"Chris and his teachers prioritize taking it slow and building fundamentals. They're trying to build a school of proficient jui jitsu players and keep injuries to a minimum while growing our skill and vocabulary. Update: I've been here a year and it only gets better. The teachers are great and the community is wonderful."
Will Holt
"Chris is an absolutely phenomenal trainer. He tunes in to his clients by both listening to their requests and by carefully observing their fitness levels. As a person with significant medical disabilities(asthma and type 1 diabetes) I only work with trainers who carefully curate workouts to my needs. I have made really great progress thanks to the passion Chris pours into his training sessions."
Dakota Tillman
"I’ve been doing jujitsu off and on for several years in my life and I’ve been training with Chris and everyone at Morris self defense for a few months now and I have learned more here than any other place I’ve been. My job keeps me very busy so I don’t get to make every class.. but every class I attend I only get stronger and better at my craft. I HIGHLY recommend this school to have fun but to also learn valuable skills in self defense."
Contact Us
Have questions or ready to start your Jiu-Jitsu journey? Get in touch with us today!
Send Us a Message
Our Location
Address
6920 Clinton Hwy, Knoxville, TN 37921, USA
Phone
Hours
Mon-Fri: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Sat: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Sun: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM