From Legends
“Sam Marcellini is the 2nd person to receive a black belt from me in California and has been training with me since 1994. He’s very patient, great with kids, and an excellent instructor. I highly recommend him to anyone looking to learn my family’s style of Jiu-Jitsu.”
Royce Gracie
Legendary Mixed Martial Arts Competitor
“Sam never settled for less than the best. His unique style of Shorin Kung Fu and Gracie Jiu-Jitsu incorporates mind, body, and spirit.”
Grandmaster Gene Brigham
6-Time Kumite Champion in Asian Competitions
“Sam was one of my first students in the U.S. He is one of my best students and the very first certified instructor under me.”
Rob Kaman
Nine-Time World Thai Boxing Champion
“Sam is a complete Martial Artist who has always trained with the best guys, Sam is very open-minded and is a great teacher for all ages, Sam is one of the most well-rounded Martial Artists I know.”
Ricco Chiaparelli
Manager and Coach to Randy Couture | U.S. Open & World Cup Freestyle Wrestling Champion
From STUDENTS
“With over 25 years in Martial Arts and visiting many Jiu-Jitsu schools, I’ve never seen teaching done as effectively as Sam’s.”
Master Andrew Grigoleit
5th Dan TaeKwonDo, 1st Dan HapKiDo
“Marcellini’s Martial Arts offers a humble, welcoming environment. Training here has improved both my professional and personal life.”
Matt Collins
Police Officer
“Sensei Sam Marcellini is the best instructor I’ve ever trained with. He teaches not just technique but also discipline, respect, and real-world self-defense skills.”
Alexsander N. Aboutalebi
“Training under Professor Sam Marcellini has not only improved my children’s focus and confidence but also elevated my family’s respect and discipline. We would not train anywhere else.”
Dr. F. Daniel Cruz, MD
Board-Certified Medical Doctor
“After years in Karate and searching many Jiu-Jitsu schools, I found the professional, respectful atmosphere I was looking for at MMAA.”
Luciano J. Savala
High School Teacher
“Legendary, extraordinary! I travel 3–4 hours round trip to train at Marcellini’s Martial Arts because it’s the best in Southern California.”
Miguel A. Sanabria
United States Navy | San Diego, CA
“As a young woman, learning Gracie Jiu-Jitsu from Sam has empowered me with confidence and self-defense skills that have positively changed my life.”
Rosanne Montez
Justin recommends Marcellini’s Martial Arts Academy
via Google
Our daughter is now in her third year at Marcellini’s Martial Arts Academy, and we truly couldn’t be happier with the experience. Before finding this academy, we tried several different activities and programs, but nothing really clicked for her. She didn’t feel comfortable or confident — until we met Sensei Sam and the team here. Sensei Sam goes out of his way to make every student feel welcome, valued, and part of a team. That personal attention has made all the difference. Since starting Jiu Jitsu, we’ve seen huge growth in our daughter: Increased confidence Better focus and discipline More calm and thoughtful decision-making Stronger social skills She’s more aware of her surroundings, handles challenging situations better, and isn’t timid about trying new things anymore. Most importantly — she genuinely loves coming to class. If you’re looking for a place that builds both skills and character, this academy is something special. Highly recommend.
Sheila Sampson recommends Marcellini’s Martial Arts Academy
via Google
Being an older woman, I wasn’t sure about starting a martial arts practice, but Sam’s emphasis on practicing safely set my mind at ease. He also teaches with lots of patience and precision. Now, almost 2 years later, my practice is going strong. Jiu Jitsu is so much fun at the same time keeps mind and body in top condition!
Sam has trained with some of the best and it’s clear that he is fully committed to bringing the highest quality available to his students. The kids are not only taught the martial art skills, but Sam teaches them clarity of mind, kindness and respect for self and others, self control, and honesty. If you want your child to learn M A safely and learn some comprehensive life skills, by a teacher who truly cares about his students, or you are just someone who wants to get the best teaching around, then this is the place to come.
Jacob Tovar recommends Marcellini’s Martial Arts Academy
via Google
This Jiu Jitsu gym is absolutely top-notch. From the moment you walk in, you’re welcomed into a clean, professional, and friendly environment. Sam Marcellini is incredibly knowledgeable, patient, and genuinely invested in helping every student improve—no matter their experience level. Classes are well structured, challenging, and fun, with a strong emphasis on technique, safety, and respect. The community here is supportive and motivating, making it easy to stay consistent and keep learning. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced practitioner, this is an excellent place to train and grow. Highly recommend!
LJSJIUJITSU recommends Marcellini’s Martial Arts Academy
via Google
I have been training jiu jitsu for over twenty years and let me say the following. I highly recommend the instruction of Sam Marcellini to anyone wanting to learn both the basic and advanced nuances of jiu jitsu. He has an expert understanding of both basic and advanced techniques that will benefit even the most experienced in jiu jitsu. His focus and attention to the most important details is excellent.
Luciano Savala recommends Marcellini’s Martial Arts Academy
via Google
Having trained at MMAA since 2002 I can strongly attest to the authenticity and effectiveness of the instruction at this school. Sam Marcellini is an excellent instructor who is a black belt under Royce Gracie. His attention to detail and focus on technical proficiency is definitely top level. Furthermore his ability to instruct kids in detail while maintaining a fun learning environment has created an especially strong kids program. The bottom line is if you want to learn authentic Gracie Jiu-Jitsu with a strong focus on functional street self defense then this is where you want to train.
Robert Rasharecommends Marcellini’s Martial Arts Academy
via Google
It is extremely rare that I take the time to leave a review for anything online, but I feel like Marcellini’s Martial Arts is worthy of the time and effort, especially after they have dedicated so much time to my personal and professional growth. I have been training at this location for several years and can speak from experience about MMAA. Sam Marcellini is an amazing instructor with a tremendous amount of experience in the art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. He is one of just a handful of black belts under Royce Gracie in California, and his skill is second to none. The facility is always clean, and Sam promotes a friendly training atmosphere. If you are looking for an amazing training experience with a friendly group, I highly recommend you check out MMAA.
More Confidence. More Focus. Shed Weight Download Our Free Starter Kit Today.