About Solecki Jiu Jitsu
Our Instructors
Joe Solecki
Owner/Head Instructor
Joe Solecki started Brazilian Jiu Jitsu when he was just 6 years old. He wasn’t the fastest or strongest kid on the mat, but loved how every class pushed him to think, stay disciplined, and gain confidence one step at a time.
Over the years, that love turned into a love for teaching. By 2012, Joe was coaching kids, teaching private lessons, and helping adults improve their skills. In 2017, he earned his Black Belt under his lifelong instructor, John Hassett — a milestone that shaped him as much as a coach as it did as a competitor.
Joe went on to compete as a professional MMA Fighter, earning his UFC Contract on the renowned Dana White’s Contender Series. Throughout his UFC career, he faced some of the toughest fighters in the world and earned respect for his technical skill, focus, and heart. Read about Joe’s full journey from white belt to UFC fighter.
Today, Joe brings that experience to his students at Solecki Jiu Jitsu Academy, which he opened in 2025 as a place for all who want to learn jiu jitsu to enjoy those same benefits that he has experienced. Whether you are new to martial arts or an experienced practitioner looking to take things to the next level, he is here to help you build confidence, learn applicable self defense, and experience the life changing benefits of martial arts–one class at a time, in a supportive, welcoming space. Learn what it's like to train with a UFC fighter.
Our CORE Values
Community • Ownership • Resilience • Effort
Community
We build a supportive family atmosphere where everyone belongs and helps each other grow on and off the mats.
Ownership
We take responsibility for our journey, our progress, and our contribution to the team's success.
Resilience
We develop mental toughness through challenges, learning from setbacks and coming back stronger.
Effort
We believe consistent hard work and dedication are the keys to mastery in Jiu-Jitsu and life.
“Joe's detail in his coaching is unmatched, not only is he a high level athlete but also a high level coach”
“Whether you are a hobbyist or competitor Solecki BJJ has you covered. You will receive top tier instruction and form bonds that will last forever.”
Part of the Gastonia BJJ Community
Solecki Jiu Jitsu is proud to be part of the growing Brazilian Jiu Jitsu community in Gastonia and the greater Charlotte area. We maintain strong relationships with other local academies and regularly participate in seminars, competitions, and community events.
Our connection to the broader BJJ community ensures our students have access to diverse training opportunities and the latest developments in the art.
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