Mixed martial arts legend and former UFC champ Royce Gracie will be coming to Magnolia to give seminars on his family's style of Jiu-jitsu later this month.
Owners Scott and Carina Caldwell of Magnolia Brazilian Jiu-jitsu will be hosting Gracie from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Sept. 20 at their gym located at 32706 Wright Road, Magnolia. Gracie will give a seminar for kids from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., which will cost $45, and a seminar for adults from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. for $85. The event is open to all.
Gracie, a native of Brazil, was trained in Jiu-jitsu by his father. His fighting career boasts a number of accomplishments, including being a three-time UFC champ and being the first fighter ever named to the UFC hall of fame, according to his website.
"Today Royce is privileged to spread the techniques perfected by his father all over the world," his website states. "He currently oversees more than 55 US and international Royce Gracie Jiu-jitsu Networks. The techniques of Gracie Jiu-jitsu have become mainstream in most martial arts dojos."
The Caldwells opened their martial arts school three years ago and offer programs in Brazilian Jiu-jitsu, judo, MMA, cardio kickboxing and also have on-site personal training. They offer classes to both adults and kids.
Scott's interest in training in the art of Jiu-jitsu stemmed from watching Gracie fight.
"I became interested in Jiu-jitsu after watching Royce Gracie compete in and win the early UFC tournaments," he said. "I was amazed that the smallest person in the competition could beat opponents much larger and more athletic. I saw him win using leverage, technique, patience and determination. I was instantly hooked and have been training in Jiu-jitsu ever since."
For more information on the Gracie seminars, or to register for the event, contact Michelle Torres-Aponte at 713-861-7252.