What It's Like to Train with a UFC Fighter at Solecki Jiu Jitsu

Spoiler: It's Not What You Think

When people find out they can train with a UFC fighter in Gastonia, they usually have one of two reactions. Either they're fired up and ready to walk through the door, or they're intimidated and assume it's not for them.

If you're in that second group, this post is for you. Because the reality of training at Solecki Jiu Jitsu is nothing like what most people imagine, and I want to set the record straight.

The Biggest Misconception About Training with a Pro Fighter

Let's get the most common misconception out of the way: training with a UFC fighter doesn't mean getting beat up by a UFC fighter.

I've heard this concern more times than I can count. People assume that because I fought professionally, our classes must be intense, aggressive, or only suitable for experienced martial artists. That's just not the case.

I spent 13 professional fights in the UFC and over a decade coaching before I opened Solecki Jiu Jitsu. The fighting part of my career is over. What remains is everything I learned from it--and my job now is to pass that knowledge to you in a way that's safe, structured, and appropriate for your skill level.

Whether you're a complete beginner who's never been on a mat or a seasoned practitioner with years of experience, you'll train at the pace that's right for you. That's not a marketing line. That's how we actually run class.

What Makes UFC-Level Coaching Different

So if I'm not smashing beginners, what exactly makes training with a UFC veteran different from any other gym? A few things:

Fight-Tested Techniques

Every technique I teach has been pressure-tested against the best fighters in the world. I finished 9 of my professional fights by submission. Rear naked chokes, guillotines, triangles, armbars--these aren't techniques I learned from a textbook. They're techniques I used when everything was on the line.

That means when I show you a sweep, a pass, or a submission, I can tell you exactly why it works, when it works, and what adjustments to make when your opponent defends it. That level of detail comes from real experience, not theory.

Attention to Detail

One thing our students consistently mention is the attention to detail in our instruction. I don't just demonstrate a technique and walk away. I break down every grip, every angle, every weight shift that makes the technique effective.

Details win fights. They also make the difference between a beginner who's frustrated and confused and a beginner who's progressing steadily and having fun. I obsess over the details so you can understand the "why" behind everything we do.

Adaptability

Fighting in the UFC taught me that no two opponents are the same. Some are bigger, some are faster, some are more technical. You have to adapt your game constantly.

I bring that same adaptability to coaching. Every student learns differently, and every body type requires different adjustments. I meet you where you are and tailor my instruction to help you develop your own game--not just copy mine.

What a Typical Class Looks Like

If you've never set foot in a BJJ gym, here's what a typical class at Solecki Jiu Jitsu looks like:

Warm-Up (10-15 Minutes)

We start with movement drills that prepare your body for grappling. Hip escapes, bridging, guard retention drills--these movements build the foundation you'll use in every technique. They also serve as a good workout on their own.

Technique Instruction (20-30 Minutes)

This is the core of every class. I'll teach one or two techniques, demonstrate them in detail, and then break them down step by step. You'll work with a training partner to practice each technique at a controlled pace.

I walk the mat during this portion, watching everyone and making individual corrections. If something isn't clicking, I'll work with you personally until it does.

Live Sparring (15-20 Minutes)

We call this "rolling." It's where you get to apply what you've learned against a resisting partner. For beginners, this is always controlled. You'll work with experienced training partners who know how to keep the pace manageable and safe.

Rolling is where BJJ really comes alive. It's problem-solving in real time, and it's the most fun part of every class for most people.

Cool Down

We wrap up, answer questions, and talk through anything from the day's session. This is a good time to ask about techniques, strategy, or anything else on your mind.

Our Class Schedule Has Something for Everyone

We run classes Monday through Saturday with options for different experience levels and schedules:

Fundamentals classes are designed for beginners and intermediate students. This is where most new students start, and it's where you'll build the foundation for everything else.
Advanced classes are for experienced practitioners who want to take their game to the next level.
Kids BJJ runs on weekday evenings for ages 6-14.
Intro to BJJ on Tuesday and Thursday evenings is specifically designed for brand-new students.
Open Mat on Friday evening and Saturday is free training time where you can work on whatever you want.

Check out our programs page for the full schedule and class descriptions.

It's Not Just About Me

One thing I want to make clear: Solecki Jiu Jitsu isn't just about training with a UFC fighter. It's about the community we've built and the culture we maintain.

Our students come from all walks of life. We have first responders, teachers, business owners, stay-at-home parents, college students, and retirees. Some want to compete. Most don't. What they all share is a commitment to getting better and supporting each other in the process.

The reviews from our members speak for themselves. With 66 Google reviews and a perfect 5.0-star rating, the feedback is consistent: welcoming environment, professional instruction, and a coaching approach that meets you exactly where you are.

If you're coming from Charlotte or anywhere in the surrounding area, the drive to Gastonia is worth it. What we offer here is hard to find anywhere else.

Learn more about my background and coaching philosophy on the about page, or watch some of my UFC fights and instructional content on the videos page.

Who This Gym Is For

Let me be direct: Solecki Jiu Jitsu is for everyone.

If you've never trained a day in your life, we have a program for you.
If you've been training for years and want elite-level instruction, we have a program for you.
If you want to compete, we'll get you ready.
If you just want to learn, get in shape, and be part of something meaningful, that's just as valuable to us.

The idea that a UFC fighter's gym is only for serious competitors or tough guys is a myth. My job is to make jiu jitsu accessible, understandable, and beneficial for every person who walks through the door. That's what I've been doing since 2012, and it's what I'll keep doing.

If you want to read more about my journey from white belt to the UFC, that'll give you the full backstory. And if you're brand new and wondering what to expect in your first class, I've covered that too.

Come See for Yourself

The best way to understand what it's like to train with a UFC fighter is to come experience it. Your first class at Solecki Jiu Jitsu is free--no commitment, no pressure.

Walk in, get on the mat, and find out for yourself why people keep coming back. Visit our contact page to schedule your free trial class. I'll see you on the mat.