Thales Blaso, our founder and head instructor at Blaso Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy is a black belt under Luiz Claudio of LCCT. Under Claudio, the Gracie beliefs and ideas were ingrained in him long before Blaso Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu opened its doors. The Blaso name is synonymous with the Gracie way and is why it was important to include it in the name of our school.

Professor Blaso has started and ran many successful Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu programs throughout the Madison area during his time here. In each, he paid close attention to creating a welcoming team environment with the idea that each member has something they can contribute to the team. His belief is growth through synergy rather than individuality. This has forged our members into a close team that we have pride in calling a family.

Through the trials and tribulations of 2020, our Phoenix was in need of rebirth, the tolls that the pandemic took on the martial arts community were felt across the nation, and in order to continue our Gracie tradition, Blaso Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu was born. As in our symbolic logo, the Phoenix, we have been reborn stronger and ready to expand our family. We welcome everyone to be a part of that family and at the same time expand themselves in the three core elements of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu: The Mind, Body, and Spirit.

Our Mission

The mission of Blaso Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is to enhance an individual’s journey in life through the learning and practice of the gentle art – Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

“Jiu-Jitsu is for the individual, the old man, the weak, the child, the lady, and the young woman – anyone who doesn’t have the physical attributes to defend themselves.”

– Helio Gracie