Today we’d like to introduce you to Rodolfo “Rudy Rexx” Canales.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
First off, I’d like to say thank you all again for giving me this opportunity to speak on my story. There were many life events that eventually led up to the opening of my first business, Violet Crown Jiu Jitsu (formerly known as Rudy Rexx BJJ). I’d have to say my story is similar to many that start taking Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. It started off as a fun hobby then turned competitive. Then eventually turned into a full blown healthy addiction. Attending seminars, going 5 days a week, studying MMA fights and sport BJJ. But the thing that always kept me in this culture was the sense of community. People in jiu jitsu always try and support each other in one way or another and I’ve met some of my best friends in life on the mat.
As the years passed and upon receiving my black belt (2014), I continued training but didn’t have much desire to open my own academy. But having a few discussions with friends, I was talked into at least entertaining the idea. And in 2020 we opened our doors. It’s been such an amazing journey, 3 years in and I can say we actually have a team. A team of amazing individuals who have turned into my friends and fam. I can say we’ve had some success in tournaments and competitions but before celebrating that aspect, we celebrate community. We celebrate togetherness.
At the end of the day, I feel we’ve hit that sweet spot of being a welcoming gym, no bad vibes allowed but being competing enough to hang with some of the older/established teams. There is something for everyone, whether it is Muay Thai Kickboxing, Grappling and even yoga! And as long as we are open, we will continue that path of making everyone feel welcome on our mats. We just hit our 3rd year and we’re excited about our growth and future.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Struggles come and go. In business, especially with gyms you meet people and they go. Some move, some get minor injuries, some take a break for work and family. But we always try to make the best of those great times shared. I’d say our struggles are no different than any other business, but our mindset is about taking it on as a challenge. An opportunity to problem solve, just like the art of jiu jitsu.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
What sets us apart from others and what we get complimented on the most is the good energy in all classes. We specialize in being a well-balanced jiu jitsu academy. I don’t focus on trying to hard in producing champions. A champion will be a champion because of his mental strength and having great mentors. We don’t only focus on our champions. We focus on everyone who wants to reap the benefits of Jiu jitsu. Health, self defense, body movement and awareness. Building strength and a sense of community. Everyone is a champion in our academy. If you’re not on the couch during our 7pm classes, you’re a champion at life! Haha.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
To be patient. Patience in teaching and patience in learning. Jiu jitsu is an art form that takes time and dedication. Lots of focus. That is what I’ve learned through the art and that is definitely what I teach. Patience will always win the long fight.
Pricing:
- $175-140 monthly. Come by and try a class
- Drop in rates are $30 per class
Contact Info:
- Website: www.violetcrownjiujitsu.com
- Instagram: @violetcrownjiujitsu
