About Us
We pride ourselves in representing our lineage through our teaching of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu at Gracie Humaitá SEMO. We place a great deal of emphasis on self-defense for kids, women, and adults. Still, we tailor instruction to each individual student. Whether you’re a first time student or practitioner, looking to defend yourself or a seasoned competitor, we can support you and help you grow. Our mission isn’t to accomplish our own goals, but to place each student in the best position to succeed on and off the mat. Gracie Humaitá SEMO’s core mission is to teach good people, great Jiu-Jitsu; because as Professor Jw Wright would say “As individuals we can only do so much, but together we are unstoppable!
Who We Are
CHECK OUT THE SEMO
JIU-JITSU SCHEDULE
Ready to find the perfect class time? Our weekly schedule offers dedicated sessions for kids and adults, with classes designed to help every student grow at their own pace. Whether you’re looking to train after work or get your child started after school, we’ve got a spot waiting for you. Explore our full schedule to plan your next training session!
CHECK OUT OUR DIFFERENT
MEMBERSHIPS AND SPECIAL OFFERS
We have plenty of options to get started after your free trial. You can join us with membership options varying from monthly to yearly. Be sure to contact us about prices! Also take a look at our discounts for families and public safety personnel!
CHECK OUT OUR
PROGRAMS
There is a Jiu-Jitsu program for everyone in SEMO at Gracie Humaitá. No matter your age group or if you are a beginner, hobbyist, or competitor, there is a place for you. We have individual pages for each program to learn more!
GET STARTED WITH A
FREE JIU-JITSU CLASS
Come join us with our free trial. It is perfect to try us out and discover a new way of life through Jiu-Jitsu. Sign up and try us out!
Sign up for a FREE Jiu-Jitsu class!
Make sure to take advantage of this special offer to join Gracie Humaitá SEMO. Sign up now to have a Jiu-Jitsu class on us!
Our Jiu-Jitsu
Instructors
The Gracie Humaitá SEMO team is led by our founder, Professor Brian Imholz. Brian has trained Jiu-Jitsu for 20+ years and has brought on Professors Curtis Ackman and Kyle Thompson – each of whom began their training under Brian. Together, the trio has made our academy a home for everyone in SEMO and they prides themselves on spreading the Gracie Jiu-Jitsu teachings. Read their bios to learn more about them!
Professor Brian Imholz
Professor Brian is the owner and head instructor of Gracie Humaitá SEMO. Brian began his martial arts journey in 1994 and in 2006 he made the transition to Jiu-Jitsu. Brian received his black belt in Jiu-Jitsu from JW Wright, Royler Gracie, and David Adiv in 2016. Brian is most passionate about spreading the knowledge and self defense skills of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu to those who need it most!
Professor Curtis Ackman
Curtis began his training with Professor Brian in 2013, starting his journey on day 1 of Gracie Humaitá SEMO. Curtis received his black belt in 2022. In his own words, “What I enjoy most about teaching is being able to watch someone use something I showed and watching it click with them while rolling.”
Professor Kyle Thompson
Kyle began his training with Professor Brian in 2013, also starting his journey on day 1 of Gracie Humaitá SEMO. Through the years Kyle has competed at various levels including at the largest international tournament and on pro shows. Kyle received his black belt in 2024!
Words from Our Community
Parent
Our son Preston began training with Gracie Humaita SEMO in May of 2021 and remains a student of the academy today. The first-rate instructors bring years of teaching and competition experience to each class fostering reverence for the discipline and respectful competitiveness. Preston’s successes in regional and international competitions are a direct reflection of Gracie Humaita SEMO’s superlative facility and instruction.
Student – Blue Belt
The first time I walked through the doors was in 2017 for a REALTOR® safety event. I had no idea then how much this place and the people in it would come to mean to me. In May 2021, a mom friend and I started meeting for private lessons twice a month with Professor Brian. By August 2023, I was hooked and training in group classes three or more times a week. As a REALTOR®, a mom, a wife, and a community volunteer, making time for everything I love takes discipline. But training is more than just another activity—it’s a cornerstone of my mental and physical health. It’s how I show my daughter that she can be strong and that she can always count on me, whether it’s carrying her or fighting for her—both literally or metaphorically. The confidence I’ve gained, knowing I have a fighting chance in a physical situation, makes me feel less like a potential victim and more in control. The friendships, the support, and the constant challenge of this community have made me stronger than I’ve ever been. My only regret? Not starting back in 2017.
Student – White Belt
I can’t speak highly enough about Gracie Humaita SEMO. Classes offered every day at multiple times have helped me take control of my own schedule and form a structured week. Any class I attend—morning, noon, or night— is always full of welcoming people equally eager to learn and laugh with me! I have truly created life long friendships within the jiu-jitsu community, not only with others, but with myself. I’ve noticed an increase in my physical health AND my mental health; feeling stronger physically and emotionally. Starting jiu jitsu with Gracie Humaita SEMO has truly been the best gift I’ve given myself.
Student – Brown Belt
I’ve been a part of Gracie Humaita Semo since 2015, and it’s been an incredible journey. With a background in various martial arts like JKD, TKD, and Judo, plus powerlifting, I continue to find immense value here. My career requires me to stay in top physical shape, and Jiu-Jitsu provides the perfect balance of physical and mental challenges. The camaraderie I’ve experienced is unmatched, and the mental and physical benefits have significantly improved my overall well-being. This academy truly supports my passion for growth and resilience, and I’m grateful to be part of such an inspiring community.
Sign up for a FREE Jiu-Jitsu class!
Make sure to take advantage of this special offer to join Gracie Humaitá SEMO. Sign up now to have a Jiu-Jitsu class on us!
with Us
You’re in Good Hands
Are you ready to start your Gracie Jiu-Jitsu journey with us in SEMO? Looking for the right deal for you and your family? Then be sure to reach out about membership options and check out our special offers. We look forward to seeing you and guiding you through high-level training and a supportive community!
Contact Us!
We are proud to provide Jiu-Jitsu to everyone in the SEMO area – such as those in Jackson, Cape Girardeau, Oak Ridge, Marble Hills, Scott City, and Benton, among others. You can find us on Old Cape Rd just off Jackson Blvd!