Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Houston Proudly Empowers Houston Families.
Who We Are and
Why You Should Train Here
At Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Houston, we believe Jiu-Jitsu is for EVERYONE, regardless of age, gender, athleticism, or ability. We are proud to continue the legacy of Grandmaster Hélio Gracie, who believed jiu-jitsu should empower the weak to defend against the strong. This is why we offer a structured martial arts curriculum specific to the self-defense needs of any demographic or skill level, with programs created for beginner adults, women, and children. We take pride in creating a safe, comfortable, and welcoming learning environment for all students and family members in West Houston. We are passionate about what we do because, simply put, we believe confident humans make kinder humans.
Head Coach
Professor Jackson Fortunato
Jackson Fortunato grew up in Brazil, where he faced tough circumstances and learned the importance of perseverance at an early age. Discovering Jiu Jitsu, especially under the guidance of the Gracie family, gave him not just confidence and direction, but a passion for sharing those lessons with others.
After college, Jackson’s passion for new experiences led him to London, where he built a life around teaching jiu jitsu and community. He grew his first academy into six locations—proof of his dedication to sharing what he loves. In 2010, life brought him to Houston, where he started a family and embraced the challenge of building something new.
Starting with just a small mat space in the Memorial area, Jackson built Gracie Jiu Jitsu Houston into a thriving academy where people of all ages come to grow stronger and more confident. For over a decade, he’s watched kids and adults alike discover discipline, resilience, and friendship on the mats.
A fourth-degree black belt, Professor Jackson continues to grow under the mentorship of Master Leão Teixeira, Rener Gracie, and Ryron Gracie.
He feels grateful for every person who has come through the academy’s doors—over 5,000 Houstonians and counting. Jackson believes jiu jitsu changes lives, and he’s proud to see that happen every day in his school. He’s committed to growing as a father, partner, teacher, and friend, always guided by his passion for helping others.
Jiu jitsu has shaped Jackson’s life, and he looks forward to many more years of learning, teaching, and building community, on and off the mats.
Our Instructors
Teddy Arellano III
Instructor
Nancy Boriski
Instructor
Dennis Boriski
Instructor
Oswaldo Davogustto
Assistant Instructor C4
Dianne Torres
Assistant Instructor C4
Kenn Edgecombe
Assistant Instructor C4
