Jeffery Martinez

Jeffery "Jeff" Martinez is a dynamic martial artist and seasoned mentor whose transformative journey spans over 25 years. As the founder and head instructor of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Nipomo, Jeff established his martial arts school in 2016 as the Central Coast Jiu-Jitsu Academy before its evolution into one of the region’s premier Gracie Certified Training Centers.

Jeff’s introduction to Gracie Jiu-Jitsu® dates back to 1996, when he was first exposed to the art that would profoundly shape his martial arts path. Throughout the years, he continued to cross-train and refine his understanding of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu®, ultimately earning his Black Belt in 2023 under the guidance of Rener and Ryron Gracie. His unwavering commitment to the art reflects a relentless pursuit of mastery and a desire to share the life-changing benefits of Jiu-Jitsu with others.

A U.S. Army Combat Veteran and former member of the elite 82nd Airborne Division, Jeff's diverse experiences extend far beyond the mat. He served with distinction in Afghanistan as a 13F Forward Observer, an experience that shaped his discipline, resilience, and leadership skills. During his military service, Jeff completed Army Combatives Level 1 and 2 courses, adding to his extensive combat training.

Jeff is also Gracie Survival Tactics Level 1 Certified and Safe Wrap Certified, further strengthening his expertise in real-world self-defense and survival strategies.

In addition to his Gracie Jiu-Jitsu® Black Belt, Jeff holds a 6th-degree Black Belt in Keichu-Do Karate/Ju-Jutsu, earned under the mentorship of the late Soke Karl W. Marx (10th Dan) and Grandmaster Eldridge Conley (9th Dan). Jeff also achieved his Shodan Black Belt in Judo and trained under Sensei Mario Rubio (founder of 5 Cities Judo Club) and Sensei Paulo Augusto. His extensive cross-training, along with regular visits to the Gracie University HQ in Torrance, CA, has provided him with the unique opportunity to learn directly from Gracie legends like Grand Master Rorion Gracie, Rener Gracie, and Ryron Gracie.

A tireless advocate for empowering others through martial arts, Jeff is more than just an instructor—he’s a mentor who strives to make a difference in his community. His leadership is reflected in the success of his students and his school’s reputation as a welcoming and inclusive environment for practitioners of all ages and skill levels.

Jeff’s academic accomplishments include a Bachelor of Science Degree in Organizational Business Management from La Verne University, further enriching his capability to lead and inspire.

His unique blend of combat-tested experience, traditional martial arts wisdom, and a passion for teaching have made Jeff a sought-after instructor and speaker. Whether he's on the mat or the stage, Jeff’s message is clear: with the right mindset and guidance, anyone can unlock their potential, overcome challenges, and emerge stronger.