World-class Jiu-jitsu.
A community that feels like home.
Train under IBJJF World Champion Gabriel Sousa at Connection BJJ academy in Apex, NC.
Welcome to
Connection BJJ Academy
In just a few steps you will be able to schedule your trial class, chat with our team, and get you ready for the first lesson with us.
Our Programs
Adult Jiu Jistu
Our Adult Jiu-Jitsu classes cater to all levels, focusing on technical skill, fitness, and strategy in a supportive community setting.
Kids Class
Little Lions (ages 3.5-5)
Juniors class (ages 6-10)
Teens class (ages 11-14)
Enroll your child today!!
Women's Jiu Jitsu
Women's Jiu-Jitsu classes that blend technique, fitness, and self-defense. Join a community where women of all skill grow together.
Muay Thai
With Muay Thai classes, you'll learn self-defense through simple techniques suitable for all levels, guided by experienced instructors
Adult Jiu Jistu
Our Adult Jiu-Jitsu classes cater to all levels, focusing on technical skill, fitness, and strategy in a supportive community setting.
Kids Class
Little Lions (ages 3.5-5)
Juniors class (ages 6-10)
Teens class (ages 11-14)
Enroll your child today
Women's Jiu Jitsu
Women's Jiu-Jitsu classes that blend technique, fitness, and self-defense. Join a community where women of all skill grow together.
Muay Thai
With Muay Thai classes, you'll learn self-defense through simple techniques suitable for all levels, guided by experienced instructors
Why start training jiu jitsu?
Combats anxiety and stress
Stimulates discipline
Develops self-defense
Defines the body
Contributes to heart health
Improves physical conditioning
Increases socialization
How does Trial Class work?
Before becoming our student, you'll have a free trial class. During the class, you will get to know our teaching methodology in practice and have your first contact with basic Jiu-Jitsu notions and positions.
- Press the "Schedule a trial class" button that appears on your screen.
- You will be directed to our form and you will need to fill in your details.
- Our consultants will help you choose the best day and time available for your class.
- After booking your lesson, you need to come to our school on the scheduled day and time.
Meet Our Team
GABRIEL SOUSA
Founder & Head Instructor – Connection BJJ Academy Gabriel Sousa is one of the most accomplished Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitors actively teaching in the United States. Originally from Fortaleza, Brazil, Gabriel has competed and taught all over the world while building a reputation for technical excellence and dynamic instruction. He is IBJJF World Champion color belt, ADCC 2022 Silver Medalist, No-Gi European champion and Abu Dhabi World Pro Champion, competing against the best grapplers in the world across both gi and no-gi divisions. Gabriel has also competed in elite promotions including UFC BJJ, ONE Championship, Polaris, and other international professional events, with 120+ career victories in major competitions worldwide. A black belt under Lucas Rocha of the Gracie lineage, Gabriel brings world-class knowledge directly to his students at Connection BJJ Academy. His teaching style focuses on: • Technical precision • Real competition-proven systems • A welcoming environment for beginners and families
MARIA RIOS
Maria, now a black belt, kicked off her Jiu-Jitsu path in 2005. Competing in tournaments since her blue belt days, Maria brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our team. She leads our women's only Jiu-Jitsu class, providing a welcoming and supportive environment for all females interested in the sport.
GUSTAVO ESTEBAM
Gustavo is a black belt under Gabriel Sousa whose martial arts venture began at ten years of age with Judo, and by twelve, he had already ventured into Jiu-Jitsu, adding Muay Thai and boxing at fourteen. For over a decade, Gustavo has been a dedicated competitor in various fields of martial arts.
KINHO SAMPAIO
Kinho's journey began in Paraguay, where he was born, and continued as he was raised in the heart of Brazil. In 2015, his path into Jiu-Jitsu began, and just recently, he brought his passion to the United States. Kinho is a high level athlete and coach that proudly holds the rank of a brown belt in Jiu-Jitsu.
VINICIUS COIMBRA
Vinicius attained his rank as a black belt under Gabriel Sousa. Entering into the world of Jiu-Jitsu in 2015, and he quickly distinguished himself as both a fierce competitor and a dedicated instructor. In 2019, Vini's passion for teaching led him to share his expertise.
Schedule
Monday
GI Class - All Levels:
6AM-7:00AM
GI Class - All Levels:
12:00PM - 1:00PM
Gi Class - All levels :
4:30PM - 5:30PM
Juniors - Gi class 5:30PM - 6:30PM
Teens class - Gi: 6:30PM - 7:30PM
No-Gi - All levels: 6:30PM - 7:30PM
NO-GI Open Mat: 7:30PM - 8:00PM
Muay Thai: 7:45PM - 8:45PM
Tuesday
Competition Class (BLUE BELT+):
9:30AM - 11AM
Little Lions GI:
4:45PM - 5:30PM
Juniors class - NO-GI:
5:30PM - 6:30PM
Women only NO-GI Class :
5:30PM - 6:30PM
Gi - All levels :
6:30PM - 7:30PM
Wednesday
GI Class - All Levels:
6AM-7:00AM
NO-GI Class - All Levels:
12:00PM - 1:00PM
Gi Class - All levels :
4:30PM - 5:30PM
Juniors - Gi class 5:30PM - 6:30PM
Teens class - Gi: 6:30PM - 7:30PM
No-Gi - All levels: 6:30PM - 7:30PM
NO-GI Open Mat: 7:30PM - 8:00PM
Muay Thai: 7:45PM - 8:45PM
Thursday
Competition Class (BLUE BELT+):
9:30AM - 11AM
Little Lions GI:
4:45PM - 5:30PM
Juniors class - NO-GI:
5:30PM - 6:30PM
Women only GI Class :
5:30PM - 6:30PM
Gi - All levels :
6:30PM - 7:30PM
Friday
No-gi class - All levels :
12:00PM - 13:00PM
Kids Striking Class : 5:30PM - 6:30PM
No-gi - All levels I: 5:30PM - 6:30PM
No-gi - Open mat : 6:30PM - 7:00PM
Muay Thai (SPARRING ONLY): 6:30PM - 7:30PM
Saturday
Kids judo -:
10:00AM - 11:00AM
Adults GI - ALL levels : 11:00AM - 12PM
Open mat : 12PM- 1PM
Add Your Heading Text Here
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is suitable for beginners of all ages and fitness levels.
No, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is for everyone, regardless of current fitness level.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu emphasizes technique and control, reducing the risk of injury.
Absolutely. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu teaches effective self-defense techniques for individuals of all sizes and strengths.
In your first class, you’ll start with a warm-up followed by instruction on basic techniques and positions.
Yes, many practitioners train for self-improvement, fitness, and camaraderie without competing.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu can benefit children by promoting discipline, confidence, and physical fitness. Our academy offers a safe environment with experienced instructors adept at engaging children effectively.