matt marty

Mathew's interest in martial arts started early with watching cartoons and a desire to become a ninja turtle. In 2003 Mathew started attending LSU and happened across the Judo club. Training under 3rd degree black belt Dane Grandt and 6th degree black belt Bob Rea helped develop a strong, technical grappling base rooted in principles and fundamentals.

While visiting Madison on summer break in 2006, a chance encounter with an old friend led to the discovery of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu at the Monkey Bar Gym. Before graduating LSU he earned the rank of Shodan (1st degree black belt) in Judo in 2008. After moving back to Madison his focus shifted to Jiu Jitsu and in March 2018, was awarded his Black Belt by Nic Gregoriades and Mike Velotta, and is now a second degree Black Belt under Chris Haueter. Mathew has trained in Judo, BJJ, Wrestling, and Sambo and believes every grappler should be as well rounded as possible, being able to utilize all aspects of grappling.