The Fundamentals of Jiu-Jitsu:

White Belt Mentality

In BJJ, earning a black belt is not easy, and it’s not for the faint of heart. I’ve been a black belt since 2014, and honestly, the cliché is true:

Black belt is just the beginning

That couldn’t be more accurate.

I’ve learned, and I continue to learn, more now, and at a faster rate, than I ever did coming up through the ranks. In essence, black belt is the highest student rank. We have to keep a white belt mentality. We can learn from anyone, and we sure as hell don’t know everything.

A few weeks ago I was promoted to 3rd degree black belt. The room in California was stacked, half the mat filled with high level black belts, martial artists and pro fighters.

Getting recognized in that room, by Sensei Erik Paulson, a pioneer in his own right, is still surreal. Not just being affiliated with his team, but earning that nod. I spent a full weekend being a full time student, and I reveled in that moment.

Enjoy the journey, enjoy the process, and embrace the struggle. It pays dividends, on and off the mats.

About Us

Mavericks Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu goes beyond the mats.
It’s a mindset, a daily practice, and a way of life.
We build an inclusive community where anyone—regardless of age or background—can find confidence, discipline, and a sense of belonging through training.