Connection Rio Jiu-Jitsu Academy

Connection Rio Jiu-Jitsu Academy offers Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for youth ages 4 and up. The kids program is described as Gi and No-Gi BJJ, and it includes Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai, and boxing classes for kids.

Programs

• Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu — designed for youth ages 4 and up · Kids BJJ program in Bend; described as Gi & No-Gi BJJ and designed for self defense, anti-bullying, character building, and self-discipline.
• Kids Muay Thai and Boxing — Kids program focused on Muay Thai and boxing, with confidence, teamwork, leadership, health and wellness, and anti-bullying strategies.
• Adult BJJ — Adult Brazilian Jiu Jitsu classes in Bend.
• Muay Thai & MMA — Adult Muay Thai and MMA instruction.
• Women’s Muay Thai, Kickboxing, BJJ & Self Defense — Women’s-only classes in Bend.

At a glance

• Ages: 4–18 years old

About the provider

The Connection Rio BJJ brand was created in 2009 by founder and lifelong martial artist Professor Dennis Asche, a 4th degree black belt. The page says he was awarded his black belt in 2009 under Professor Roberto Correa de Lima, also known as "Gordo," and that he was the first American to receive his brown and black belt ranks under Professor Gordo. The page also says Connection Rio BJJ Bend serves Bend and all of Central Oregon.

Request information forms note that you must be 18 years of age or older. The kids pages describe safe, fun, supportive environments and self-defense/anti-bullying focus.

What families say

“I've trained at MANY BJJ gyms here in Oregon, and Connection Rio is the real deal. Professor Dennis Asche has an unparalleled level of knowledge and depth of expertise, giving him the ability to meet each and every practitioner where they're at with their game, and help to develop their own preferred toolbox of BJJ techniques.” — Brian Garrett

“Having trained in gyms all over the world for many years, Dennis's classes always stick out in my mind as the most beneficial, enjoyable and relevant to modern jiu jitsu. I still carry with me to this day the unique methods and techniques Dennis taught me and I have been able to apply these practically in many situations.” — John Hickey

“This is THE place to learn Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Bend, Oregon.” — Mark Gasson

Last updated October 1, 2026.