Ivan Sakamoto
Head Coach · Founder
- Black belt since December 2008
- Active SJJIF Master black belt competitor
- Founder of Okinawa's first BJJ academy
BJJO instructors
Four black belts who know your name.
Four black belts, one curriculum, three languages. Every class at BJJO is led by someone who still steps on the competition mat and still remembers their own first day.
Arine Sakamoto
Black Belt · Adults Coach
- Black belt under Ivan Sakamoto
- Teaches Adult Fundamentals and Advanced
- Coaches in English, Japanese and Portuguese
Rodrigo Watanabe
Black Belt · Fundamentals and Kids Coach
- Black belt under Ivan Sakamoto
- Teaches the morning classes and evening Fundamentals
- Kids program coach
Anthony Ayala
Black Belt · Advanced and No-Gi Coach
- Black belt in 2023, at age 24
- Teaches Adult Advanced and No-Gi
- Kids program coach
Still thinking?
Questions people ask about our coaches.
Do instructors roll with students?
Yes. Coaches always adjust to the student's ability and make sure nobody gets hurt. If you would rather not roll on a given day, because of an injury or anything else, just say so.
Do instructors attend competitions?
Yes. Our instructors compete in local tournaments and on the Japanese mainland. If you feel like competing, ask a coach and we will get you prepared.
Can I get a private lesson?
Yes. Instructors teach private lessons when they have availability. Ask for a day and time that works for you.
What languages are classes taught in?
English, Japanese and Portuguese. Coaches switch between them during class so everyone on the mat follows the same lesson.
What students say
Rated five stars on Google.
★★★★★
A great Jiu Jitsu team to be a part of. Extremely welcoming and family oriented environment. Best competition team on island. But there's a place for everyone to learn, to grow and have fun. Led by two very skilled black belt instructors that build a culture of improvement. Kids and adults can be part of the team. Absolutely recommend this place.
★★★★★
Highly recommend this awesome and family oriented Dojo! My kids started their BJJ journey back in 2018 here and continued on to another wonderful gym when we moved back Stateside in 2020. We moved back on island last year and both kiddos were excited to go back to training and see Senseis and new friends. Looking forward to more competition travels and memories with the BJJO Sakamoto family!
★★★★★
This gym is a family atmosphere. The coaches are awesome, and the professor is truly excellent. Great for children and adults. My children absolutely love the training sessions and Professor Ivan.