Gracie United Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

Gracie United Brazilian Jiu Jitsu offers Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, mixed martial arts, MMA, self-defense, Cardio Kickboxing, and sport grappling tournaments in both gi and no-gi formats. The program includes gi classes, nogi classes, and provides the gear needed for classes.

• Ages: 5–18 years old

Gracie United Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is headed by Professor Rafael Ellwanger in Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama. Rafael Ellwanger is a Black Belt World Champion, and the program offers world class instructors and the opportunity to learn from world champions. Gracie United has 32 different locations in Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama, with over 32 locations total, and offers classes for all ages and genders, including a family oriented structure and the largest women program in the south. The organization offers a large variety of programs with a main focus on Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and also offers classes on mixed martial arts with instruction from UFC, Strikeforce, and Bellator veterans.

Gracie United Brazilian Jiu Jitsu offers a free week of training, described as “Try One Week Free - Come to our classes free for one week. The gear will be provided, all you have to do is show up,” and also notes “Try for a week - absolutely free” and “Free uniform.” The program states there are no gimmicks, hidden contracts, or registration fees, no belt test fees, and a 60 days cancellation option. Gracie United is described as the fastest growing Brazilian Jiu Jitsu organization in the south, and its mission statement is: “I’m on a mission to help as many people as possible to experience the benefits of our programs.”

Last updated August 17, 2026.