Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is more than just a martial art—it’s a community that has rules and a hierarchy. In a recent episode of Combat Creative podcast with Jared Quackenbush, BJJ Black belt Jeff Messina shared a compelling perspective on maintaining a healthy training environment.
Messina’s approach is uncompromising when it comes to addressing toxic behavior in his academy.
“I’ve kicked people out that are very talented in Jiu-Jitsu… I don’t want to have that cancer in the gym,”
he explains, emphasizing that technical skill never trumps personal character.
The BJJ instructor highlights the critical importance of creating a safe, supportive space for all students.
“I want to make sure that the women and children are safe here and that everyone feels important… this should be the best part of your day where you can decompress, have fun, have good training and leave a better person.”
Toxic is a pretty far encompassing term but Messina seems to be insistant that it’s not just the criminal behavior that should be policed:
“People will start leaving because this person is making bad choices or treating people poorly, or they’ll erode the academy from within. And sometimes, you don’t really see it. So, as soon as something like that happens, I usually give someone a warning or, depending on what it is that they’ve done, I’ll just boot them right away. I don’t care who they are.”
For students experiencing problematic situations, Messina offers clear advice:
“You need to communicate with your professor. And if they don’t do anything about it… you’re at the wrong gym 100%.”
Messina touched upon another aspect of behavior that often stops students in leaving bad enviroments:
“I know people have loyalty, and it’s uncomfortable to quit, but man, if someone’s treating you wrong, you are paying. We have to remember that we are providing a service that people pay for.”
Beyond addressing negative behaviors, Messina celebrates the transformative power of BJJ. He’s witnessed numerous life-changing stories—from individuals losing significant weight to people finding purpose after struggling with mental health, and even personal spiritual growth.
His philosophy extends beyond the mat, rooted in principles of integrity and compassion.
“I treat them like family,”
he says, demonstrating that true leadership in martial arts goes far beyond technical instruction.
For academy owners and instructors, Messina’s message is crystal clear: prioritize your community’s well-being, maintain high standards of conduct, and never compromise your values—regardless of a student’s technical prowess.
This is refreshing to hear considering some of the cases in recent history in which instructors were protective of their top tier talent over those who were affected by their behavior.
