The San Diego Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu community has mobilized to support athletes leaving Team Atos, with multiple prominent gyms opening their doors to offer free training in the aftermath of what many are calling a crisis within the sport’s leadership.
Del Mar Jiu-Jitsu Club became one of the first facilities to extend an invitation, offering former Atos members complimentary training throughout February. The gym made clear that no contracts or commitments would be required, allowing displaced athletes time and space to determine their next steps. Classes taught by World Champion Fellipe Andrew are available on weekday evenings and Saturday mornings.
Richie Martinez of 10th Planet San Diego released a video invitation welcoming those seeking a new training home.
“Whether you are a beginner or advanced, whether you want to be a competitor or just do this for fun, we have classes specifically for you.”
The facility offers programs including no-gi jiu-jitsu, women’s boxing and youth classes that incorporate both striking and grappling.
“We pride ourselves on having an amazing family environment alongside a strong and competitive team for those looking to push themselves.”
Former Atos team member Adam Bradley announced that The Arena Gym would provide 60 days of complimentary training to anyone displaced by recent events. Bradley, who departed Atos for B-Team several years ago, framed the offer as support during an uncertain time.
“No contract period, no pressure, no politics. Just a nice spot for you to train Gi & No-Gi while you decide where to go next.”
He added that black belts would train free regardless and offered to direct athletes to other trusted facilities if they preferred alternatives.
Keenan Cornelius‘ Legion JJ also joined the effort, providing free trial sessions and orientation for both gi and no-gi practitioners including youth programs. Cornelius shared an application link for instructors interested in teaching positions.
The community response comes as several high-profile competitors have severed ties with Atos. Former Atos competitor Rosie Miller removed her affiliation from social media profiles and terminated her membership, explaining her decision online.
“I have removed Atos from my bio, removed my promotion post, and cancelled my membership today. I have only trained there once in the last 2 weeks as this information has been coming out. I am not able to say more at this time but I am standing with the girls and am supporting them in sharing more when they’re ready.”
ADCC champion Rafaela Guedes is also departing from Atos, while Andy Murasaki was observed training at Kingsway, a location associated with Gordon Ryan.
BJJ champion Nicole Matthews, who trains at Method Jiu-Jitsu and is not affiliated with Atos, announced plans to retire from competition in her current capacity, citing concerns about leadership throughout the sport.
“When I said at the end of 2026 I would be retiring from competing like I have been and taking on a bigger leadership role this is why. Another team and more foul accusations that are seemingly true. Lets be so real that makes 3 teams that are associated with some nefarious s**t.
Its hard to fathom that so many are willing to look the other way when we KNOW the kind of shit theyve been doing behind closed doors. Morals and ethics arent real if you pick them only when convenient.”
Nick Salles, a black belt under Mikey Musumeci, echoed these concerns.
“I’ve heard truly ho rrific and hein0us things about a well-known gym today and its head instructor, and it’s painful to see a sport I love so deeply associated with that kind of harm and evil. Now, more than ever, we need people to stand up against injustices when you see it. “
For Matthews, recent developments underscore the need for systemic change within Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Offers of free training periods without contractual obligations signal a recognition that the current situation requires community support rather than recruitment opportunities.
