The Nairobi Jiu-Jitsu Academy (NJA) will officially celebrate the opening of its new, state-of-the-art training facility with a landmark Grand Opening Weekend running from Friday, 27 February to Sunday, 1 March 2026 at its new home on the second floor of New Muthaiga Mall, Thigiri Ridge, Nairobi.
The three-day weekend and opening celebrations will bring together athletes, families, fans, media and the wider community through a carefully curated programme of seminars, ceremonies, fitness sessions and open days that reflect NJA’s commitment to excellence, accessibility and community building.
The new 650-square-metre facility features Kenya’s only octagon cage for MMA training, a fully equipped strength and conditioning area, four types of heavy bags for striking training, a 150-square-metre open mat area, as well as eight showers and spacious changing rooms designed for athlete comfort and convenience.
Two legends of MMA sport: Professor Ricardo Testai and Professor Renato ‘Babalu’ Sobral have been confirmed as the guests of honour; they will be arriving in Kenya soon and are both set to give workshops at Nairobi Jiu-Jitsu Academy. The presence of Renato Sobral and Professor
Ricardo Testai underscores the international calibre of Nairobi Jiu-Jitsu Academy’s Grand
Opening Weekend. Sobral’s career spans elite competition and coaching, while Testai—BJJ Head Coach at Kings MMA in Huntington Beach, California—has worked with some of the world’s top fighters and former UFC champions, playing a key role in integrating high-level Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu into modern MMA.
This marks a major milestone for martial arts development in Kenya and East Africa, positioning
NJA as one of the region’s most comprehensively equipped combat sports facilities, offering Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) programmes for children and adults (male and female), alongside Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) training for children and adults (both amateur and professional fighters).
Grand opening weekend programme highlights
Friday, 27 February 2026
The weekend opens with a special MMA Seminar led by Brazilian MMA legend Renato Sobral, also known as “Babalu”, running from 7–8:30 PM. Sobral is a former Strikeforce Light Heavyweight World Champion and UFC title challenger, widely respected for his influence on the global MMA landscape.
Saturday, 28 February 2026
Saturday’s programming focuses on community, youth development and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The day begins with a Bullyproof Self-Defence Seminar for children aged 7–15 (10–11 AM), followed by a Belt Promotion Ceremony (12–1 PM) recognising the dedication and progress of NJA students. At 1 PM, the academy will host itsofficial ribbon cutting ceremony, formally marking the opening of the new facility. Guests will then enjoy a Special Lunch Menu and Raffle with Prizes (1:30–2:30 PM) before the afternoon concludes with a BJJ Seminar led by Professor Ricardo Testaiat3 PM.
Sunday, 1 March 2026
Sunday highlights fitness, performance and accessibility, beginning with an MMA Fitness Class (11:30 AM–12:30 PM). This is followed by Open Facility Viewing (1:30–3 PM), allowing the public to explore the academy, meet coaches and learn about NJA’s programs. The weekend closes with a Strength & Conditioning Class (2–3 PM) designed to showcase NJA’s holistic approach to athlete development.
The expansion represents NJA’s long-term vision: to develop disciplined athletes, empower our community and contribute to the continued rise of Kenya and East Africa on the global combat sports stage. The opening of NJA’s new facility follows a year of strong competitive performances across Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and MMA, reinforcing the academy’s reputation as a leading force in African combat sports. The expanded space allows NJA to meet growing demand from children, hobbyists, aspiring professionals and competitive athletes alike, while maintaining high coaching standards and a safe, inclusive training environment.
About Nairobi Jiu-Jitsu Academy
Nairobi Jiu-Jitsu Academy (NJA) is a premier martial arts school offering world-class Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, MMA and self-defence instruction in Nairobi, Kenya. Located on the second floor of New Muthaiga Mall, Thigiri Ridge, Westlands, NJA provides a state-of-the-art facility and an ideal training environment for students of all levels.
The academy offers a comprehensive schedule of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), Striking and Self-Defense courses for both children and adults, fostering a supportive community where individuals can learn, grow and thrive through the art of Jiu-Jitsu.
With a team of experienced coaches, NJA places a strong emphasis on both physical and mental development, helping students build confidence, self-discipline and respect. Whether for beginners or seasoned practitioners, Nairobi Jiu-Jitsu Academy is committed to cultivating skill, discipline and a lifelong passion for martial arts.
