About Us

Greensboro Jiu Jitsu Renzo Gracie

We are centrally located just off of I-40 and minutes from UNCG, NC A&T, and downtown Greensboro. We provide all students with a safe and inclusive environment to learn and grow.

3000 square foot training facility
1800 square foot custom mat
Separate stand up and exercise area
Thai bags
Padded Takedown Wall
Thai pads, Kick Shields, Focus Mitts, etc.
Lounge area
Men's and Women's changing rooms/bathrooms
HVAC
Adults and Kids classes
Open 6 days/week (Mon-Sat)

Our instructors

Renzo Gracie-Our Esteemed Affiliate

We are honored to be affiliated with Renzo Gracie, one of the most respected and influential figures in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. A 6th-degree black belt and a direct member of the legendary Gracie family, Renzo has dedicated his life to the growth and global spread of BJJ. Known for his technical mastery, relentless spirit, and deep respect for the art, Renzo has successfully competed in organizations such as Pride FC, the UFC, and ADCC.

Through our affiliation, we uphold Renzo's legacy of discipline, innovation, and tradition. His philosophy and approach to training continue to shape our curriculum, inspire our instructors, and guide our students on and off the mats.

Herman Mattison

Herman Mattison is the head instructor at at Greensboro Jiu Jitsu Renzo Gracie. He’s been doing martial arts for over two decades with experience in Tae kwon do, Judo, Japanese Jiu-Jitsu, Maui Thai, and American Boxing with the last 13 years being dedicated greatly toward Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Herman has competed in the past winning multiple MMA titles in the 135lb bantam weight class and has metaled in every jiu-jitsu tournament he’s competed. Herman has trained multiple MMA champions and helped coach World Champion jiu-jitsu artists. Throughout the years he has trained under multiple jiu-jitsu champions including Royce Gracie. Herman’s goal is to turn Greensboro Jiu Jitsu Renzo Gracie into a place for ANYONE to feel at home and explore their inner limits through their journey in jiu-jitsu with a team that is here to make them feel safe and help them reach the greatest heights they wish.

Ray Irizarry

Ray “The Razor” Irizarry is a decorated martial artist and seasoned coach with a deep-rooted passion for combat sports. A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu brown belt who received his purple belt under the legendary Royce Gracie, Irizarry has spent years sharpening his craft across multiple disciplines. His experience spans boxing, kickboxing, Muay Thai, BJJ, and MMA, making him one of the most well-rounded coaches in the game. A former 137lb Muay Thai champion, Irizarry has trained alongside some of the sport’s greatest—most notably American kickboxing pioneer Joe Lewis and MMA icon Bas Rutten. His diverse training background and championship pedigree inform a unique coaching style that balances technical precision with old-school grit.

Based in North Carolina, Irizarry is known for his high standards, relentless energy, and genuine investment in his athletes. Whether coaching amateur hopefuls or competitive fighters, his focus on discipline, mental resilience, and tactical awareness ensures his students are ready for any challenge—on the mat, in the cage, or in life.

Dennis Jones

3rd Dan – Sandan

Sensei Jones started Judo on Guam in 1969. While in the US Army, he practiced and competed in various places such as Guam, Germany and the United States.

Austin Horne

Austin is one of our newest trainers, bringing with him a deep dedication and a sharp eye for technique. With over half a decade of Muay Thai experience Austin has developed a strong ability to pass that knowledge on.

His classes are intentionally structured and technique driven, designed to support all skill levels from beginners to experienced strikers. Austin is known for crafting sessions that build fundamentals, sharpen mechanics, and develop real striking power. If you’re looking to understand Muay Thai and build a clean, effective game in a low-risk, high-reward situation, Austin is the coach to guide you.