RONN SHIRAKI

Relson Gracie

Seventh Degree Black Belt

Ronn Shiraki began training and competing directly under Relson Gracie in the 90's and began teaching full-time in 2002 after opening his first school in Kaneohe, Hawaii.

Historically, The Association Headquarters also referred to as the "Main Academy" in Honolulu had the unique benefit of Master Relson personally teaching classes on a daily basis.

Students at the main academy had the opportunity to train with practitioners of different styles and skill levels from around the world [mainly Brazil]: many of which intentionally traveled to Hawaii just to train with Relson.

It was in this environment that ​Ronn’s training experience and “straight from the source” approach to instruction informs his practice and pedagogy.

Ronn also spent a significant amount of time learning directly under Helio Gracie / Rickson Gracie’s Black Belt Pedro Sauer in Utah [1998 to 2000]. After training and teaching under Pedro Sauer for two years, Ronn was awarded his Purple Belt. Coupled with nearly two decades under the tutelage of Relson, Ronn's Jiu-Jitsu and teaching strives to emulate Relson’s aggressive, tight approach combined with Pedro’s fluid, movement-based style.

Meaning and purpose for Ronn is found through fulfilling his mission to help mold teachable students into able artists through deep contemplation and action. He also finds satisfaction through the creation and nurturing of lasting friendships with honorable people who demonstrate true integrity. He believes that its important to keep the art in proper perspective in this complex society while gaining knowledge and wisdom on a daily basis through study, subjugating the ego, welcoming the priceless lessons from failure and constantly scrutinizing personal beliefs.

​Ronn holds a Bachelor's in Human Development from Brigham Young University in Utah and a Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from Argosy University in Hawaii. His master’s thesis, “Elite Athletes Experiencing Flow: From Construct Development to Outcomes and Challenges,” examined peak performance in professional athletes.
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The only thing that Ronn loves more than sharing his knowledge of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu is his wife and daughter.

Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Lineage: Helio Gracie > Relson Gracie > Ronn Shiraki.
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Watch Master Pedro Sauer share his thoughts about Relson Gracie

I have had the priceless opportunity to spend Thousands of hours with Relson Gracie training on the mats in Hawaii. I love him, the family. I love the art known as Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. Let me show you why.
Ronn Shiraki