Renzo Gracie Evolution · Chatsworth
Every instructor at Evolution is a practitioner first. They've spent years — in many cases decades — on the mat before stepping behind it to teach. What they bring to every class isn't just technique. It's the lived experience of the art.
Renzo Gracie BJJ lineage. Muay Thai precision. Hapkido tradition. All under one roof in Chatsworth.
BJJ Head Instructor
BJJ Black Belt · Head Coach
Professor Alex is the Brazilian Jiu Jitsu head instructor at Renzo Gracie Evolution and the cornerstone of the gym's grappling program. A BJJ black belt under the Renzo Gracie lineage, he brings world-class technical depth to every class — from absolute beginners stepping on the mat for the first time to experienced competitors sharpening their edge.
His teaching approach is built on a simple principle: technique is accessible to everyone. Whether you're a 200-lb former college wrestler or a 130-lb office worker, Prof. Alex will find the version of the technique that works for your body and make sure you understand why — not just how.
Under his guidance the Evolution BJJ program has produced multiple belt promotions and regional competition medalists. He trains actively and travels regularly within the Renzo Gracie network to stay at the forefront of the art.
Teaches
BJJ · Muay Thai Instructor
7th Dan Black Belt · Hapkido Master
Master Kim is one of the most experienced Hapkido practitioners in Southern California. A 7th Dan Black Belt with over 30 years of teaching experience, he has dedicated his life to preserving and transmitting the traditional Korean art of Hapkido — its techniques, its philosophy, and the discipline required to truly master it.
Master Kim's curriculum covers the complete Hapkido system: strikes, joint locks, throws, breakfalls, weapons defense, and forms — taught with a depth and rigor that reflects decades of study under master-level teachers. His classes are demanding and precise, and his students carry a distinctly different quality of movement that reflects genuine mastery.
The Coaching Staff
Muay Thai & EVO Fitness Coach
Coach Tony brings a competitive Muay Thai background and a contagious intensity to every class he runs. His Muay Thai sessions are technically precise — emphasis on clean technique before power — and his EVO Fitness classes push members to levels they didn't think were accessible. He's the energy engine of the Evolution coaching staff.
Kids Programs Coordinator
Coach Maria runs the Tiny Tigers and Juniors Hapkido programs and is the heart of the Evolution kids curriculum. Her ability to connect with children — especially the youngest students — is unmatched. She holds youth coaching certification, has a background in child development, and has transformed countless shy, distracted 4-year-olds into focused, confident young martial artists.
BJJ Brown Belt · Assistant Coach
A competitive brown belt and longtime Evolution student turned coach. Assists Prof. Alex across the BJJ program — fundamentals classes, all-levels sessions, and open mat. Known for patient, detail-oriented instruction that helps beginners build confidence quickly. Instructor name to be confirmed by the professor.
Standards & Credentials
Our BJJ program operates within the Renzo Gracie network — one of the most respected grappling lineages in the world. Standards are set from the top and upheld at every level.
Master Kim holds rank recognized by the Korean Hapkido Federation — the governing body of traditional Hapkido. This is authentic, lineage-verified instruction, not a commercial imitation.
All instructors working with minors hold current youth coaching certification and have passed comprehensive background checks. No exceptions, no shortcuts.
Every full-time coach is current on CPR and first aid certification. Safety protocols are embedded in every class — from warm-up to cool-down.
Train with the best in the San Fernando Valley
Come meet the coaches, try any program, and experience Renzo Gracie Evolution in person. No commitment, no pressure.